Question 1

What does Revelation 20:15 mean?

Accepted Answer

Revelation 20:15 says that anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire. This verse describes a final judgment where being recorded in the book of life is the deciding factor for escaping this punishment. In the setting of Revelation 20, John is describing a vision of the last judgment, where all the dead are judged before God. The "book of life" is pictured as a record of those who belong to God, and the "lake of fire" is a symbol of ultimate separation from God. The verse emphasizes the seriousness and finality of this judgment scene.

Question 2

The Greek behind Revelation 20:15

Accepted Answer

βιβλίον (biblion, "book"): This word refers to a scroll or record, and here it is used for the "book of life," which represents a divine register of those who have life with God. ζωή (zōē, "life"): This word means more than just physical life; it points to spiritual, eternal life in relationship with God, making the "book of life" a record of those who share in this life. λίμνη (limnē, "lake") and πῦρ (pyr, "fire"): Together, these words form the phrase "lake of fire," a vivid image used in Revelation for final judgment and destruction, not just ordinary fire but a symbol of complete and irreversible separation from God.

Question 3

Why Revelation 20:15 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse clarifies that the decisive issue at the final judgment is whether a person's name is in the book of life, not their deeds or status. The imagery connects to earlier parts of Revelation, where the book of life is mentioned as a source of hope and assurance for believers. The verse highlights the seriousness of the judgment described in Revelation, showing that the consequences are ultimate and permanent.

Revelation 20:15 (KJV)