Revelation 20:6 – Blessed and holy are those who share in the first resurrection. The second death has no power over them, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with him for a thousand years.
Explanation of the Verse
This verse gives a promise and a powerful encouragement to those who belong to God. It starts by calling those who take part in the first resurrection “blessed and holy.” That means they are deeply favored by God and set apart for Him. These people have already been described in the previous verses as those who stayed faithful to Jesus, even through death.
The verse goes on to say something incredible: “The second death has no power over them.” The “second death” refers to final judgment and separation from God after the last resurrection. For those who are in the first resurrection, this terrifying end is not even a threat. They are safe—forever.
Instead of judgment, they are given honor. They will be priests of God and of Christ—people who serve, worship, and represent God—and they will reign with Him for a thousand years. This isn’t just survival; it’s ruling. It’s purpose. It’s life with Jesus in His kingdom.
Historical Context
In the time Revelation was written, many Christians were suffering under Roman persecution. Some had been killed for refusing to worship the emperor. Others had been pushed to the edges of society for holding on to their faith.
This verse would have been deeply comforting. It told them that even if they died for their faith, they would live again. And not just live—they would be honored, set apart as holy, and given real roles in God’s kingdom. The world had rejected them, but God had not.
The language of being “priests” would have been especially meaningful to Jewish-background believers, reminding them of the temple and the high calling of representing God to others.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches several deep truths. First, it confirms that the first resurrection is a resurrection to blessing, not judgment. Those who take part in it are safe from the “second death,” which is eternal separation from God.
It also teaches that believers are not just saved from something—they’re saved to something. They are made priests, which means they have access to God, they serve Him, and they reflect His presence to others. They also reign with Christ, sharing in His authority and rule.
These are not small roles. This is God’s way of showing that the faithful—those who trusted Him in life and death—will be part of His kingdom forever, not just as citizens, but as co-workers and honored guests.
Literary Analysis
This verse is structured as a beatitude—a statement of blessing, like those found in the Sermon on the Mount. “Blessed and holy are those…” It declares a deep, unshakable truth.
The rest of the sentence builds on that blessing with three strong statements:
- The second death has no power over them.
- They will be priests of God and Christ.
- They will reign with Him for a thousand years.
Each statement adds a layer of meaning and joy. First comes safety (no fear of judgment), then closeness to God (as priests), and then participation in Christ’s rule (as co-heirs). The verse moves from relief to purpose to glory.
Biblical Cross-References
- John 5:24 – “Whoever hears my word and believes… has crossed over from death to life.”
- Romans 6:9 – “Death no longer has mastery over him [Christ],” and the same applies to those in Him.
- 1 Peter 2:9 – Believers are called “a royal priesthood.”
- Revelation 1:6 – Jesus has made us “to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father.”
- Revelation 2:11 – “The one who is victorious will not be hurt at all by the second death.”
- 2 Timothy 2:12 – “If we endure, we will also reign with him.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For anyone who follows Jesus today, this verse is full of hope. It tells us that death is not the end and judgment is not our destiny. If we belong to Christ, we are blessed and holy—not because of anything we’ve done, but because of what He has done for us.
It also tells us that our future is not just about being saved from pain. It’s about being brought into a new life where we serve God closely and reign with Christ. That gives meaning to everything we do now. Our faithfulness matters. Our trust in Jesus leads to life—real, lasting, joyful life.
Even when the world is hard and pressure comes, this verse reminds us that our story doesn’t end in defeat. It ends in resurrection and reign.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse shows God’s love by revealing what He has planned for His people. He doesn’t just forgive sin and leave us alone. He raises us to life, protects us from eternal harm, brings us close to Him, and gives us roles in His kingdom.
That’s love in action—restoring what was lost, giving us purpose, and making us new. It’s not distant or cold. It’s personal and powerful. God wants us with Him, not just barely surviving, but reigning and serving in joy.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Everything in this verse is possible because of Jesus. He is the one who conquered death and rose again. Because He lives, we can live too. The “first resurrection” is for those who belong to Him.
Jesus is the High Priest (Hebrews 4:14), and He makes us priests with Him. He is the King, and He shares His reign with His people. In Revelation 1:18, Jesus says He holds the keys to death and the grave. That’s how He can give life to those who trust in Him and protect them from the second death.
This verse points directly to the victory Jesus gives—freedom from death, closeness with God, and a role in His future kingdom.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does it mean to be “blessed and holy” in God’s eyes?
- How does the promise of the first resurrection encourage you in your walk with Christ?
- What comfort do you find in knowing the second death has no power over you if you belong to Jesus?
- How does the idea of being a priest and reigning with Christ shape how you see your purpose now?
- What can you do today to live in light of the resurrection and the reign that is to come?