The Book of Life

Last month our study revealed the protection believers can plan on through the relationship they have in Christ as savior. This month in Rev. 20:11–15 there is further reinforcement of this theme. The first verse (v. 11) opens with a view of “the great white throne”—a symbol for the holiness of God—and the “one” is seated on it. This allusion references Dan. 7:9 in which God, the “ancient of days” is seated on the throne. The conviction of sin in the world system is explained by reference to the “earth and heaven” (all fallen creation v. 11) fleeing the presence of God on his white throne (holiness).

Revelation 20:12 (CSB)

12 I also saw the dead, the great and the small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life, and the dead were judged according to their works by what was written in the books.

The truth of Scripture is that unbelief will be judged in the end times. Rev. 20:4 opens a series of judgement prophesy—the dead (unbelievers) v.12, the dead given up by Hades (those who died in unbelief) v.13, and death itself (the power of evil and betrayal) v.14—will go to the lake of fire (fire is the symbol for judgement.). But those who are found in the “book of life” will be spared judgement. Compare this to Dan. 12:1 (CSB) “there will be times of distress” but “your people who are found written in the book will escape.”

Revelation 20:15 (CSB)

15 And anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.

The relationship between God’s holiness and his justice are displayed in Rev. 20. God punishes the rebellious and vindicates his people, his kindness leads us to repentance (see Rom 2:1–4) and his holiness provides the resource of freedom. As our ministry teaches through the importance of fourth step inventory this month, we pray the protection and love of God will strengthen you in your quest for his holiness in recovery.