Revelation 20:3

And he threw him into the Abyss, shut it, and sealed it over him, so that he could not deceive the nations until the thousand years were complete. After that, he must be released for a brief period of time.

Study Bible

He threw him into the Abyss
The phrase "He threw him" refers to the angel who seizes Satan, demonstrating the authority and power of God over evil. The Greek word for "threw" is "ebalen," indicating a forceful action, emphasizing the decisive nature of God's judgment. The "Abyss" (Greek: "abussos") is a place of confinement for demonic forces, often associated with chaos and the deep. In biblical context, it represents a temporary holding place for Satan, highlighting God's control over the forces of darkness.

shut it and sealed it over him
The act of shutting and sealing the Abyss signifies the complete and secure confinement of Satan. The Greek word for "sealed" is "esphragisen," which conveys the idea of a mark of authority and finality. This imagery is reminiscent of the sealing of the tomb of Jesus, but in contrast, it underscores the impotence of Satan against God's sovereign will. The sealing ensures that Satan's influence is entirely curtailed during this period.

so that he would not deceive the nations any longer
This phrase underscores the primary activity of Satan: deception. The Greek word for "deceive" is "planaō," meaning to lead astray or cause to wander. Historically, Satan's deception has been a recurring theme throughout Scripture, beginning with the Garden of Eden. The cessation of his deception marks a significant shift in the spiritual landscape, allowing for a time of peace and truth.

until the thousand years were complete
The "thousand years" is often referred to as the Millennium, a period of Christ's reign on earth. The number "thousand" (Greek: "chilioi") can be interpreted literally or symbolically, representing a long, divinely appointed period. This era is characterized by righteousness and peace, as prophesied in various Old Testament passages, such as Isaiah 11. The completion of this period signifies the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.

After that, he must be released for a brief period of time
The necessity of Satan's release, as indicated by "must" (Greek: "dei"), suggests a divine purpose in God's plan. This brief period (Greek: "mikron chronon") serves as a final test for humanity, revealing the true nature of those who have lived under Christ's reign. It underscores the persistent reality of free will and the ultimate triumph of God's justice and righteousness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Abyss
A place of confinement for evil spirits, often associated with chaos and the underworld. In Revelation, it is depicted as a temporary holding place for Satan.

2. Satan
The adversary and deceiver, who is bound and cast into the Abyss to prevent him from deceiving the nations during the millennial reign of Christ.

3. The Thousand Years
A period often referred to as the Millennium, during which Christ reigns on earth and Satan is bound, preventing him from deceiving the nations.

4. The Nations
Refers to the peoples of the earth who are protected from Satan's deception during the Millennium.

5. The Release of Satan
After the thousand years, Satan is released for a short time, which leads to a final rebellion against God.

Teaching Points

The Sovereignty of God
God's control over Satan is absolute. The binding of Satan demonstrates God's authority over evil and His ability to restrain it according to His divine plan.

The Reality of Spiritual Warfare
Even though Satan is bound during the Millennium, the reality of spiritual warfare is evident. Believers must remain vigilant and rely on God's power to resist deception.

Hope in Christ's Reign
The thousand-year reign of Christ is a time of peace and righteousness, offering hope for believers that God's kingdom will ultimately prevail.

The Deceptive Nature of Satan
Understanding Satan's role as the deceiver helps believers to be aware of his tactics and to seek truth in God's Word.

The Temporary Nature of Evil
Satan's release and final defeat remind us that evil is temporary and will ultimately be overcome by God's eternal kingdom.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the binding of Satan during the Millennium reflect God's sovereignty over evil?

2. In what ways can believers prepare themselves to resist deception, knowing that Satan is the deceiver of the nations?

3. How does the concept of the Millennium provide hope and encouragement for believers today?

4. What parallels can be drawn between the binding of Satan in Revelation 20:3 and other instances of God's judgment on evil throughout Scripture?

5. How does understanding the temporary nature of Satan's power influence our perspective on current spiritual battles?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 3
The deception of Eve by the serpent, illustrating Satan's role as the deceiver from the beginning.

Luke 8:31
The demons' fear of being sent into the Abyss, showing its role as a place of confinement for evil spirits.

2 Peter 2:4
The mention of angels being held in chains, paralleling the binding of Satan.

Revelation 12:9
The casting down of Satan, highlighting his ongoing role as the deceiver of the whole world.

Revelation 20:7-10
The release of Satan and the final battle, providing context for the temporary nature of his binding.