Revelation 20:5
“The rest of the dead didn’t live until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection.”
What does Revelation 20:5 mean?
This passage refers to a final resurrection that happens after a thousand-year period mentioned earlier in Revelation. John is describing two separate resurrections: the first one belongs to those who have faith in Christ, while the rest of humanity waits until after that thousand years are complete. It's a way of emphasizing that believers experience something unique and privileged, a spiritual restoration or vindication that sets them apart. The exact meaning has been understood differently throughout Christian history, but the core comfort is that God has a purposeful plan for his people, distinct and secured in advance.