Revelation 20:12, 15 And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books. If anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.

This is an image that atheists steadfastly reject, because it’s too terrible. The first reference in the Bible to a “book of life” is in Psalm 69:28, and then Paul refers to it in Philippians 4:3, but all the other references are in Revelation. That is to say, it is a concept with deep roots, but it wasn’t a frequent topic of conversation. That’s not too surprising, when you consider the consequences of not being recorded there! Before Christ, there seems to have been only a vague concept of it being a list of “the righteous,” but in the whole context of the New Testament, it is clear that the way to get your name into the Book of Life is to believe in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. (John 17:3) A lot of people would be comfortable with that if it didn’t mean living in obedience to Jesus as Lord! Far too many in the US, at any rate, think that all that is needed for salvation is agreeing with the facts about Jesus. As James said, even demons know the facts! (James 2:19) The way to have assurance of salvation is to believe in Jesus, and then live according to that belief.

As I write frequently, my biggest issue is in living out the truth I know. Failure to do so is simply deceiving myself, as James points out. (James 1:22) I do have full assurance of salvation myself, but that brings me to desire salvation for those around me. As Paul said, I feel compelled to share the Gospel. (2 Corinthians 5:14) Frankly, it is a mystery to me why not every Christian shares that compulsion. As a pastor, I need to nurture the flock in understanding the love and grace of God, because the more they do that, the more they will indeed share that with those around them. Everyone whose name is recorded in the Book of Life wants the names of those they love to be there too, but a lot of them don’t understand the reality of the situation. I’ve got to help them grasp it, so that they will overcome the emotional and social barriers and share Christ from their hearts, in the power of the Holy Spirit.

Father, if every Christian really understood this issue, the world would be evangelized in no time! Keep me from trying to push it onto people by my efforts, but help me recognize the opportunities You provide to share with those whose hearts are open. May every­thing we do, as a church and as individuals, demonstrate Your grace and love and so draw people to repentance and faith, for their salvation and Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!