King James Version

What Does Revelation 20:15 Mean?

Revelation 20:15 in the King James Version says “And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” — study this verse from Revelation chapter 20 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.”

Revelation 20:15 · KJV

Context

13

And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. hell: or, the grave

14

And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.

15

And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.

Read Revelation 20 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.... This verse from Revelation's vision of millennium, satan bound, final rebellion, great white throne - ultimate justice employs apocalyptic imagery rich with Old Testament allusions and symbolic meaning. The Greek text uses vivid apocalyptic language characteristic of Jewish prophetic literature, drawing heavily from Daniel, Ezekiel, Isaiah, and Zechariah.

The symbolism must be interpreted within its first-century context while recognizing timeless spiritual realities. The imagery would resonate powerfully with persecuted believers facing Roman imperial cult worship, providing hope that despite present suffering, Christ reigns sovereign and will consummate His kingdom. The apocalyptic genre uses symbolic numbers (seven, twelve, 144,000), colors, beasts, and cosmic imagery to convey theological truth rather than photographic descriptions.

Christologically, Revelation consistently exalts Jesus as the victorious Lamb, the faithful witness, the King of kings and Lord of lords. Every vision ultimately points to Christ's supremacy, His finished redemptive work, and His certain return to judge the living and dead and establish the new creation.

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Historical & Cultural Context

John received this revelation circa AD 95 during Domitian's persecution, exiled on Patmos for his testimony. The seven churches of Asia Minor faced increasing pressure to participate in emperor worship and pagan religious practices. Refusal meant economic hardship, social ostracism, and potential martyrdom. Understanding this context illuminates Revelation's encouragement to faithful endurance.

The apocalyptic genre was familiar to first-century Jewish and Christian readers. Rather than newspaper-style predictions, apocalyptic literature uses symbolic imagery to reveal spiritual realities behind earthly events, encourage the faithful, warn the unfaithful, and assert God's ultimate sovereignty over history. Parallels with Daniel, Ezekiel, and intertestamental apocalyptic writings would help original readers decode the symbols.

Rome's imperial cult demanded worship of Caesar as divine, placing Christians in impossible situations—compromise their faith or face persecution. Revelation identifies Rome as "Babylon" and assures believers that despite appearances, the Lamb conquered through His death and resurrection, and all earthly kingdoms will submit to His reign.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does Revelation 20:15 reveal God's character, particularly His sovereignty, holiness, and justice?
  2. What specific encouragement or warning does this verse offer for maintaining faithful Christian witness amid cultural pressure?
  3. How does this passage point to Christ's victory and the hope of new creation, and how should that shape your present priorities?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 17 words
καὶ1 of 17

“And”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

εἴ2 of 17
G1487

if, whether, that, etc

τις3 of 17
G5100

some or any person or object

οὐχ4 of 17

“not”

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

εὑρέθη5 of 17

“found”

G2147

to find (literally or figuratively)

ἐν6 of 17

“in”

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

τῇ7 of 17
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

βίβλῳ8 of 17

“the book”

G976

a scroll

τῆς9 of 17
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ζωῆς10 of 17

“of life”

G2222

life (literally or figuratively)

γεγραμμένος11 of 17

“written”

G1125

to "grave", especially to write; figuratively, to describe

ἐβλήθη12 of 17

“was cast”

G906

to throw (in various applications, more or less violent or intense)

εἰς13 of 17

“into”

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

τὴν14 of 17
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

λίμνην15 of 17

“the lake”

G3041

a pond (large or small)

τοῦ16 of 17
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

πυρός17 of 17

“of fire”

G4442

"fire" (literally or figuratively, specially, lightning)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Revelation. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Revelation 20:15 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Revelation 20:15 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

John 3:36Matthew 13:50Matthew 25:411 John 5:11-12Acts 4:12John 14:6

Test Your Knowledge

Revelation 20 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterRevelation Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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