1. Revelation 20:3 (ESV)
  2. Exposition

What does the word “ended” mean?

Revelation 20:3 (ESV)

3 and threw him into the pit, and shut it and sealed it over him, so that he might not deceive the nations any longer, until the thousand years were ended. After that he must be released for a little while.

The term used here denotes completion, specifically in terms of a goal have been achieved. God detains Satan for this 1000-year period for a reason. Once that purpose is fulfilled, Satan can be released (briefly).

Back to list

Similar topics

Exposition
…
What are “demonic spirits”?
The term “spirits” repeats the “unclean spirits” of Revelation 16:13 . John now adds as explanation …
Exposition
…
What does the word “released” mean?
The term used is the common word for “setting free” ( Acts 2:24 ; Revelation 1:5 ). The concept …
Application
…
Eternal wrath of God against the seed of the serpent
The justice of God is not short-term or intermittent. Satan’s placement in the lake of fire knows …
Exposition
…
Why is Satan now called “the devil”?
Revelation 20:2 had used four related terms in relation to the devil: dragon, serpent, devil, and …
Exposition
…
What does the word “Satan” mean?
The word “satan” is simply the Hebrew term for adversary (see 1 Kings 11:14 , 1 Kings 11:23 ). The …
HomeBibleCommentary
Vox Viva

Bible search
Scripture index
Reading Lists

Settings
English
Light