Definition: And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Revelation 19:20 together. It’s a pretty intense passage, but we can understand it in simpler terms. Here's what it means, broken down piece by piece: 1. "And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him…" “The beast”: This refers to a powerful figure in the future – often interpreted as Satan or an embodiment of evil. Think of him as a leader who seeks to deceive and cause chaos. “…the false prophet…” : This is a person who was already spreading lies and misleading people, but now they’re taken over by something even more powerful. This person was actively working to trick others. “…that wrought miracles before him…” : The false prophet was doing good things – healing the sick, raising the dead, performing amazing feats. This shows he was a force for good in his own time. 2. “…with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast.” “The mark of the beast”: This is a recurring symbol in Revelation and refers to a specific type of mark or identifier often associated with false religious leaders or systems. It's believed to be a number, often 666, signifying a system of deception. “…they that had received the mark…” : This means those who were already following this particular leader or system – people who trusted him and his teachings. It’s a specific group being targeted. “deceived them…” : They were misled by this person, leading them astray with false promises and doctrines. 3. “…and them that worshipped his image.” “…them that worshipped his image” : This refers to those who are devoted to and worship the beast – essentially, those who are following him as a god. 4. “These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone.” “A lake of fire burning with brimstone”: This is the most dramatic part. It describes a place of intense punishment and destruction. “Lake of fire” : This imagery represents God’s judgment and wrath. “Burning with brimstone” : Brimstone is a substance associated with hellfire – it's incredibly hot and destructive. So, putting it all together: Revelation 19:20 describes the final battle between good and evil. The beast (Satan) is defeated, but a false leader who was already spreading lies is taken over by him. This person then deceives people who have already been following his teachings, and they are ultimately cast into a place of eternal punishment – a lake of fire burning with brimstone - for their defiance and idolatry. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a prophecy about the end times, but it’s also seen as a warning to resist false religious leaders and to remain faithful to God. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Discuss what this verse might mean in the context of other parts of the Bible? Compare it to other passages about the end times?