Topical Bible: Vision of John on the Island of Patmos: Death and Hell (Gehenna)

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The Vision of John on the Island of Patmos, as recorded in the Book of Revelation, provides a profound and vivid depiction of eschatological events, including the ultimate fate of Death and Hell (Gehenna). This vision, received by the Apostle John during his exile on Patmos, is a cornerstone of Christian eschatology, offering insights into the final judgment and the eternal destinies of humanity.

Context and Background

The Book of Revelation, also known as the Apocalypse, is the final book of the New Testament. It is traditionally attributed to John the Apostle, who received a series of visions while exiled on the island of Patmos. These visions are rich in symbolic imagery and prophetic declarations concerning the end times, the return of Christ, and the establishment of God's eternal kingdom.

Death and Hell in Revelation

In Revelation 20:13-14, John describes the final judgment, where Death and Hades (often equated with Hell or Gehenna) are cast into the lake of fire: "The sea gave up its dead, and Death and Hades gave up their dead, and each one was judged according to his deeds. Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death—the lake of fire" .

This passage signifies the ultimate defeat of Death and Hades, representing the end of their power and influence over humanity. The "lake of fire" is depicted as the final place of punishment, often associated with Gehenna, a term used in the New Testament to describe a place of eternal torment and separation from God.

Theological Significance

The casting of Death and Hades into the lake of fire symbolizes the complete and final victory of Christ over sin, death, and all forms of evil. This act fulfills the promise of redemption and the restoration of creation, as foretold throughout Scripture. The "second death" mentioned in Revelation 20:14 underscores the eternal nature of this judgment, contrasting with the temporary nature of physical death.

The imagery of the lake of fire serves as a solemn warning of the consequences of rejecting God's grace and the reality of eternal separation from Him. It emphasizes the seriousness of the final judgment and the importance of faith in Christ for salvation.

Conclusion

The Vision of John on the Island of Patmos, particularly the depiction of Death and Hell being cast into the lake of fire, is a powerful reminder of the ultimate triumph of God's justice and mercy. It calls believers to live in anticipation of Christ's return, to remain steadfast in faith, and to proclaim the hope of the Gospel to a world in need of redemption. Through this vision, the Apostle John offers a glimpse of the glorious future that awaits those who are in Christ, where death and suffering are no more, and God's eternal kingdom is fully realized.

Nave's Topical Index

Revelation 20:14
And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.
Nave's Topical Index

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Against Jovinianus.
... also the Saviour himself in the Revelation of John says, [4356 ... Moses who when he
saw a great vision and heard ... a vow, should learn his error by the death of his ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/against jovinianus.htm