Revelation 20 is one of the most sobering and hope-filled passages in the entire Bible.

It gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what happens after Jesus returns when Satan is bound, thrones are established, and some of God’s people are raised to life to reign with Christ for 1,000 years.

But there is a part that causes some to stop:

“I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their testimony about Jesus… They came to life and reigned with Christ a thousand years. The rest of the dead did not come to life until the thousand years were ended. This is the first resurrection.”

— Revelation 20:4–5

Only the martyrs are raised first? If I died today, would I miss the first resurrection and have to wait 1,000 years?

We will explore the truth from Scripture, and how it applies to our lives right now.

Let’s get into it.

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Breaking Down Revelation 20:1–6

Satan is bound for 1,000 years.

Thrones are set up for those who are given authority to judge.

Martyrs — especially those beheaded for their faith in Jesus and those who refused the mark of the beast — are raised and reign with Christ.

This is called the first resurrection.

The rest of the dead (those who didn’t rise at this point) will be raised after the 1,000 years.

Those in the first resurrection are blessed, holy, and untouched by the second death.

Who Reigns in the Millennium?

A common question is:

“Are only the martyrs included in the Millennial reign with Christ?”

Answer: No.

While Revelation highlights the martyrs, it does not say they are the only ones. Instead, they are given special recognition for their sacrifice.

The passage begins with: “I saw thrones…” (plural). This implies there are others reigning as well.

The martyrs are specifically mentioned to honor their loyalty, not to say they are the exclusive group. Much like a military ceremony, all faithful soldiers are present, but a few are called forward and publicly honored.

What is the First Resurrection?

The “first resurrection” is not just a one-time event, but a category of resurrection: the resurrection of the righteous.

It includes:

1. Jesus Christ, the firstfruits (1 Corinthians 15:20)

2. Church-age believers, raised at the rapture (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17)

3. Tribulation martyrs, raised just before the Millennium (Revelation 20:4)

4. Old Testament saints, likely raised around the same time (Daniel 12:2)

If you are a believer in Jesus Christ, even if you are not martyred, you are in the first resurrection.

What is the Second Resurrection?

The second resurrection happens after the 1,000 years, at the Great White Throne Judgment (Revelation 20:11–15). This is where the wicked dead are judged according to their works.

Those in the second resurrection are not saved. They face the second death, eternal separation from God in the lake of fire.

If your name is not in the Book of Life, that is where you will stand. But if you belong to Christ, the second death has no power over you. (Revelation 20:6)

If I Died Today, What Would Happen?

Here’s the comforting truth: Your spirit would immediately go to be with Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:8). Your body would await resurrection at the rapture.

When Jesus returns for His Church, you will be raised in glory and reign with Him during the Millennium. You will be part of the first resurrection. You do not have to be martyred, just faithful.

Why the Martyrs Are Highlighted

The martyrs in Revelation 20 are honored for one reason: they did not back down. They could have chosen comfort, compromise, or silence, but they chose Christ, even unto death.

This should challenge us deeply:

Are we living boldly now, or playing it safe?

You do not have to be beheaded to reign with Christ. But you do need to be unashamed of Him, even when it costs you something. The Bible says that if we confess Jesus before men, He will confess us before the Father in heaven.

How to Live for the First Resurrection

This should impact your daily life in that you:

• Choose truth over popularity.
• Say “no” to compromise.
• Live boldly and unapologetically for Jesus.
• Prepare to suffer if necessary. The reward is real.

Ask yourself:

• Would I rather die for Jesus than live for the world?
• Am I raising my kids and building my life like eternity matters?
• If persecution came tomorrow, would I stay faithful?

Want to Go Deeper?

A great resource is the Joyce Meyer Amplified “Battlefield of the Mind” Bible. It is full of tools to help you think like a warrior and live with courage.

Here are a few more scriptures that you will find helpful:

• 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18 (Rapture of the Church)
• 1 Corinthians 15:50–57 (Resurrection and victory over death)
• Daniel 12:1–2 (Old Testament resurrection insight)
• Revelation 20 (full chapter)

Final Word

“Blessed and holy are those who share in the first resurrection. The second death has no power over them. They will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with Him for a thousand years.”

— Revelation 20:6

Live for the first resurrection

Revelation 20 reveals the ultimate victory of Jesus over sin, death, and the enemy. It reminds us that judgment is coming, but also that through faith in Christ, we can be part of the victorious new creation. If you have not yet accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, now is the time to choose life and eternal hope.

Pray this prayer right now to the living God right where you are:

Lord Jesus, I believe You defeated sin and death through Your sacrifice. I confess my sins and ask You to be my Lord and Savior. Cleanse me, save me, and help me live for You. Thank You for the victory You’ve won on my behalf. Amen.

If you prayed this prayer, welcome to God’s family. Walk in His victory every day!

Until next time, my friend.