Hope and Prophecy

What Is the Difference Between the First and Second Resurrection?

The first resurrection, occurring at Christ's return, raises the righteous dead to eternal life, while the second resurrection, occurring after the millennium, raises the wicked for final judgment, resulting in the complete and final destruction of sin and death.

Published 2026-09-13 · Updated 2026-09-27

Written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team. Read our editorial policy.

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ProphecyState of the Dead

Biblical explanation

Revelation describes those who are part of “the first resurrection” as blessed and holy, since “on such the second death hath no power” (), specifically identifying this resurrection with the righteous who reign with Christ for a thousand years. After this period, “the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished,” describing a second resurrection of the unrighteous for final judgment (). This sequence matches Jesus's own teaching about “the resurrection of life” and “the resurrection of damnation” (), portraying two distinct resurrections separated by the millennium, culminating in the final removal of sin, death, and suffering forever (; 21:4).

In brief

Revelation describes those who are part of “the first resurrection” as blessed and holy, since “on such the second death hath no power” (), specifically identifying this resurrection with the righteous who reign with Christ for a thousand years.

Bible references

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Editorial note

This answer is written and reviewed by the Word Oasis Editorial Team, and is presented with supporting references so you can examine each passage in context. If you notice an error or unclear statement, please suggest a correction.