"The rest of the dead did not come to life until the thousand years were completed" describes the first resurrection. I agree this is not symbolic.
"The lake of fire: this is the second death" is symbolic because a lake of fire does not describe death. Death is described often in the Bible and rarely is it about being in a lake of fire.
Symbolic imagery in literature represent something beyond the literal meaning. That's why the first resurrection is not symbolic, but the lake of fire is.
"The lake of fire: this is the second death" is symbolic because a lake of fire does not describe death. Death is described often in the Bible and rarely is it about being in a lake of fire.
Symbolic imagery in literature represent something beyond the literal meaning. That's why the first resurrection is not symbolic, but the lake of fire is.
Carefully chosen imagery meant to convey its attributes. These descriptive attributes produce a reaction in those who are imprisoned there: torment, pain, weeping, wailing, gnashing of teeth.
All of this is meant to rightfully induce fear in those who refuse to give God glory, so that they might obey His command to receive his Son for remission of sins, repent of their dead works, and turn from idols to serve the living God.
Deny the words of Jesus at your peril. Annihilationism is an unbiblical heresy IMO.
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