Revelation 21:8

But. A strong contrast is now presented.

Fearful. Gr. deiloi, “cowardly,” “fearful.” The word is always used in the evil sense of cowardice, or unwarranted timidity. Compare its use in Matt. 8:26; Mark 4:40; the related verb in John 14:27; and the related abstract noun in 2 Tim. 1:7. In each instance cowardice is the basic meaning. Owing to cowardice, moral faintheartedness, many fail to overcome in the Christian warfare; they give up in the time of trial. Compare Matt. 24:13.

Unbelieving. That is, those who lack faith, in the sense of not remaining faithful. They do not trust God to the end; they prove to be untrustworthy.

Abominable. Gr. bdelussō, “to make foul,” “to turn away in disgust from,” “to detest,” related to the verb bdeō, “to stink.” The noun bdelugma occurs in Luke 16:15; Rev. 17:4, 5; 21:27.

Murderers. These include the persecutors and murderers of God’s faithful children throughout history.

Whoremongers. Gr. pornoi, “fornicators” (see 1 Cor. 5:9, 10; etc.). The feminine form is translated “harlots” in Matt. 21:31, 32; Luke 15:30. Compare on Eph. 5:3, 5.

Sorcerers. Gr. pharmakoi, “practicers of magical arts.” Basically, the root refers to magic, enchantment, sorcery, and to the use of drugs to produce a stupefied condition. A modern counterpart of the ancient practice of sorcery is spiritism.

Idolaters. A reference to heathen peoples, as well as to Christians who practice heathenish rites. Compare on 1 Cor. 5:10; 6:9; 10:7.

Liars. Including those who preach false doctrines. See on Ex. 20:16.

Second death. See on ch. 20:6.