Introduction
Revelation chapters 20 to 22 mark the grand finale of John’s apocalyptic vision. While many modern interpretations push these chapters into a distant future, the Former Adventists Philippines (FAP) approach them with the lens of partial preterits, seeing most of these events as symbolic and historically fulfilled around the first-century judgment on Jerusalem and the covenantal transition from Old to New. This view emphasizes theological coherence and historical grounding—especially within the context of AD 70.
The Binding of Satan and the First Resurrection (Revelation 20:1–6)
FAP interprets the “binding of Satan” as a symbolic depiction of Christ’s victory at the cross and resurrection. Satan’s power to deceive nations was restrained—not ended—which enabled the global spread of the gospel during the apostolic age. FAP links this to Luke 10:18, where Jesus says, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven,” and John 12:31, which declares Satan’s judgment through Christ’s sacrifice.
The “first resurrection” refers to the spiritual resurrection of believers—being born again into the kingdom of God. As Paul explains in Ephesians 2:5–6, Christians are “raised up” with Christ spiritually. This reign of the saints is happening “now,” in the heavenly realm, not a distant physical rule on earth.
Gog and Magog and the Final Revolt (Revelation 20:7–10)
FAP reads the Gog and Magog event not as a literal battle but as a symbolic representation of global rebellion against the truth of the gospel. This rebellion is spiritually rooted and was already brewing in apostolic times (cf. 2 Thessalonians 2:7). FAP stresses that this passage reflects the spiritual opposition encountered by the early church, especially during Nero’s persecution.
The “fire from heaven” is a judgment motif rooted in Ezekiel 38–39, fulfilled typologically in the destruction of Jerusalem. Satan’s final defeat is portrayed symbolically—his influence ends in definitive spiritual judgment, not physical destruction.
The Great White Throne and the Final Judgment (Revelation 20:11–15)
For FAP, this scene symbolizes the covenantal judgment that fell upon apostate Israel in AD 70. The “books” represent God's divine record and accountability, consistent with Daniel 7:10, where judgment flows from God’s throne. The inclusion of “another book”—the book of life—speaks to the security of true believers, who are vindicated by grace rather than condemned by law.
The “sea giving up its dead” and “death and Hades being thrown into the lake of fire” are poetic images expressing the full scope of judgment—not just physical death but spiritual separation from God. The lake of fire is symbolic of irreversible judgment for covenant breakers.
To be clear, FAP does not deny a final judgment in the future for all people. Hebrews 9:27 still stands— “it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment.” But the events in Revelation 20:14–15 primarily concern historical redemptive fulfillment. The lake of fire shows up again in Revelation 21:8, describing the fate of liars, idolaters, and others who reject Christ—not just future sinners, but those who rejected Him in the first-century generation.
In conclusion, Revelation 20:14–15 is not a scary movie trailer about the future—it’s a victorious declaration that Jesus has already triumphed over sin, death, and the Old Covenant system. The judgment scene marks the end of the old religious world and the public revealing of the New Covenant people—those whose names are in the Book of Life. The Former Adventists Philippines teach this not to downplay hell or judgment, but to magnify the covenantal faithfulness and victory of Christ in history and His continuing work in eternity.
The New Jerusalem: Covenant Restoration (Revelation 21)
FAP sees Revelation 21 not as the end of the physical world but as a stunning vision of the New Covenant era. The “new heaven and new earth” is a renewal of relationship, echoing Isaiah 65:17 and 2 Corinthians 5:17, where Paul declares that “if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.”
The “New Jerusalem” is not a literal city but the bride of Christ—the redeemed people of God. Its description, with walls, gates, and foundations, represents the beauty and permanence of covenant fellowship. Hebrews 12:22–24 confirms that believers have already “come to Mount Zion.” God’s dwelling with His people is fulfilled in Christ’s presence among His church— “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man” (Rev. 21:3).
The River of Life and Healing Nations (Revelation 22)
Finally, chapter 22 seals the vision with imagery of restoration and healing. FAP interprets the river flowing from the throne (Rev. 22:1–2) as the life-giving gospel spreading through the world. It echoes Psalm 46:4 and John 4:14, where the water of life is spiritual sustenance. The “tree of life” stands for Jesus Himself, bringing healing to the nations—not through political conquest, but through grace.
The call to wash robes and enter the city (Rev. 22:14) is a present invitation—not one postponed to some future millennium. The closing exhortation in verse 17, “The Spirit and the Bride say, ‘Come,’” captures the heart of the New Covenant: open access to life through faith in Christ.
Conclusion
The Former Adventists Philippines believe that Revelation 20–22 is not forecasting a distant future, but is a rich, symbolic portrayal of God’s judgment on the old covenant system and His inauguration of the New Covenant through Christ. Drawing from the interpretive tradition of Partial Preterist, these chapters affirm the victory of Christ, the vindication of the saints, and the spiritual restoration of the world. Instead of waiting for someday, this vision invites believers to live in the reality of God’s kingdom—here and now.
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