The answer is: They were cast in the lake of fire

Rev 20 vs 15

In the enigmatic world of Revelation, the imagery can be vivid and often unsettling. Chapter 20 unveils a dramatic scene at the Great White Throne judgment, where everyone stands before God, their deeds unveiled like scrolling channels on a TV screen. Here, the "book of life" takes center stage—a heavenly roster containing the names of those destined for eternal life. For the unlisted, a grim fate awaits: that famous lake of fire.

But let's unpack what this really means. The lake of fire symbolically represents total separation from divine grace and love. It's not just about punishment; it highlights the significant consequences of choices made in life—the lack of unity and good deeds driving a wedge between individuals and the divine.

Interestingly, the concept of the book of life appears frequently throughout the scriptures, like a thread connecting various ideas. In Exodus 32:32-33, Moses appeals to God to forgive Israel or else to remove his name from the book, showcasing the depth of relational accountability in ancient beliefs. In Philippians 4:3, Paul affectionately refers to people whose names are in the book, implying that community and fidelity to moral choices deeply matter.

So, while the idea of being 'cast into the lake of fire' might stir up scary imagery, it's also a reflection on our interconnectedness. What we choose, believe, and uphold can profoundly impact our relationship with something greater than ourselves. Isn’t that food for thought?