What Does the Bible Say About the Second Death — Meaning Explained

Revelation 20:14 identifies the second death: 'And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.' Revelation 21:8 lists those who face it: 'The fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable... shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.' The first death is physical — the separation of soul from body. The second death is spiritual and eternal — final separation from God. Revelation 2:11 promises overcomers: 'He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.' Revelation 20:6 says those in the first resurrection are 'blessed and holy... on such the second death hath no power.' The second death is the ultimate consequence of rejecting God's offer of salvation through Christ. It underscores the urgency of the gospel and the gravity of unbelief.