“And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Then another book was opened, which is the book of life. And the dead were judged by what was written in the books, according to what they had done.” Revelation 20:12
I’d argue that one of the most universal human experiences is getting sick. No amount of money or influence can buy your health. In a way, sickness levels the playing field in a unique way. This is a helpful lens as we zoom into this courtroom scene.
First, I think it’s valuable to make the distinction that those who are standing before this throne are those who believe they can save themselves by their own works, thus by their own works they will be judged. Those whose name is in the book of life are “judged” by this book instead. Our assurance is found in the promise that we are not condemned if we are in Christ (Romans 8:1) and just as Christ has crossed from death into life, (John 5:24, Romans 6:3-11) we will too. Our sentence has already been settled. Praise be to God.
The story for those whose names are not found in the book of life is not the same.
“And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne…”
This phrase is all-encompassing. Rich, poor, weak, strong, celebrities, politicians, everyone who believes that they can save themselves will stand before the throne. Even those who hold significantly more power, authority, and wealth on earth, if their name is not in the book of life, they will stand before this throne. The throne of God is where all of the scales come perfectly into balance. The first time I read this, I almost felt a sigh of relief. The feeling that those who have spent their days wielding their power to exploit and oppress others, were going to get theirs. However, the more time I spent with this passage, the more my heart aches for people who believe what they have here on earth is going to be enough for them.
“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth…But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven…For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:19-21)
The treasures of earth will not last, nor will they save anyone.
My encouragement for us today is that the gift of our salvation is not just a “get out of hell free” card. Salvation is freedom in life, and it’s a challenge to invite others into that same gift of freedom.
Kassie Lowe
Young Adult Women’s Intern / Worship Leader