September 20, 2026 | Sunday morning Bible class | Jeff Arnette
What Happens When? | Lesson 4, Part 2: The Books Were Opened
Scripture: Revelation 20:1–6; John 5; Colossians 1:13–14; Ephesians 2:4–6
These are summarized companion notes from the recorded teaching, not a verbatim transcript.
What does Revelation mean by the first resurrection and the thousand years? This class considers Revelation 20 alongside passages about the new life Christians already have in Christ. Jeff Arnette explains the thousand years as symbolic of the period between Christ’s first and second comings and connects the first resurrection with becoming alive in Christ.
Reading Revelation’s imagery
The class discusses the thousand years, Satan’s binding, and his final defeat as symbolic language. Jeff emphasizes Christ’s victory and the hope this gives believers as they consider resurrection and judgment.
Alive and reigning with Christ
Colossians 1:13–14 describes God delivering believers from darkness into the kingdom of his Son. Ephesians 2:4–6 describes being made alive and raised with Christ. The class uses these passages to explain the first resurrection and the believer’s present relationship with Christ.
Confidence that depends on God
Confidence in Christ should lead to prayer and dependence on him. The discussion distinguishes that confidence from arrogance or trust in ourselves. Believers are encouraged to keep resisting temptation and seeking God’s protection.
Reflection and application
Read Revelation 20:1–6 beside Colossians 1:13–14 and Ephesians 2:4–6. What do these passages say God has already done for his people? How can that assurance shape your prayers and your response to temptation? Write down questions to bring to the next class.