In my study of the Revelation of Jesus Christ, I am puzzled by the chaining, and the locking of Satan in the Pit for the millennial reign of Christ.
This question: According to premillenial view, What is the point of the Millenium reign? is similar and has an answer that gives two reasons for the millennial reign, but they do not seem to answer my question.
Here are some considerations that I have mulled over:
Satan is chained and locked in the pit, so that he can no longer tempt mankind.
Since Satan was defeated at the cross, then why is he loosed to participate in the battle of Armageddon?
Is the battle of Armageddon the final battle of the war begun in Heaven, and if so why then did God, give the one thousand year interlude in that battle?
Is the Battle at Armageddon to show Satan that even though he enlisted such a large number of mankind in his army that that was not sufficient to overcome the army of God?
Assuming that number 4 is true, then why does the judgment immediately follow Armageddon?
And finally, will Satan and all unbelievers have to bear the knowledge that their rebellion was such folly for the Eternity in the lake of fire?
Number 6 is as close as I have come to understanding this passage in the Revelation, but it still does not answer my initial question, of the purpose of the millennial reign, and why Satan is bound and locked in the bottomless pit.
From what I know of the Catholic faith they believe that the dead are put into a place known as Purgatory to await the final judgment, which gives a second chance to get into Heaven, but we protestants do not adhere to such a belief. As far as purgatory goes it would give a chance for those in purgatory to get into heaven while Satan was bound which seems a bit of a stretch to me, but as for Protestants it seems to serve no purpose for those who are already dead since their fate is sealed as far as I understand.
I can see a possible reason for Catholics but not for Protestants. Any ideas from any denomination are welcome.