Revelation 20:1, as interpreted by an amillennialist, is understood symbolically rather than as a literal depiction of future events. Here is the verse:
“Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, holding in his hand the key to the bottomless pit and a great chain.” (Revelation 20:1, ESV)
Amillennialist Interpretation
Amillennialism views the “millennium” in Revelation 20 as a symbolic representation of the reign of Christ during the present church age, rather than a future thousand-year literal kingdom on earth.
The Angel
The angel in this passage is often understood as a representation of Christ Himself or as a heavenly agent acting with Christ’s authority. This interpretation aligns with other instances in Revelation where Christ is depicted with sovereign power over the spiritual realm (e.g., Revelation 1:18).
The Key to the Abyss and the Chain
The “key” and “chain” symbolize the authority and power to bind Satan. Amillennialists understand this binding as referring to Christ’s victory over Satan through His death, resurrection, and ascension. This victory inaugurated the present age where Satan’s influence is restrained, particularly in his ability to deceive the nations as he once did before Christ’s coming (cf. Revelation 20:3).
The Bottomless Pit (Abyss)
The “bottomless pit” symbolizes a place of restriction and limitation. Satan, though still active in the world (cf. 1 Peter 5:8), is bound in the sense that he cannot prevent the spread of the gospel or deceive entire nations as he could before Christ’s redemptive work. This explains the rapid growth of the church and the gospel reaching the nations since Christ’s ascension.
The Broader Context
The binding of Satan in Revelation 20:1–3 corresponds to the church age, which began with Christ’s first coming. This symbolic depiction assures believers that Christ has decisively overcome Satan and that the gospel will continue to advance despite opposition.
The book of Revelation employs rich symbolism and apocalyptic imagery to convey spiritual truths rather than a strict chronological timeline of events. Revelation 20:1, therefore, is seen as a reassurance of Christ’s sovereignty and the ongoing mission of the church in this age.
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