Millennium

The 1,000 year period mentioned in Revelation 20.1-7. As far back as the second century CE, there were mixed views among Christians about what this passage referred to. Some believe that when Jesus returns at the end of the world, he will set up an earthly kingdom in Israel that will last for 1,000 years. Others believe that it refers to a golden era of 1,000 years for the Church, after which Jesus will return. Still others hold that the number 1000 is symbolic (as is the number 666) and refers to the spiritual reign of Christians through the Church.