December 29, 2023
“Blessed and holy are those who share in the first resurrection. For them the second death holds no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with him a thousand years” (Revelation 20:6 NLT). John saw a day when all those who share in the “first resurrection” would serve
December 29, 2021
WILL YOU SHARE IN THE FIRST RESURRECTION? John saw a day when all those who share in the “first resurrection” would serve as priests of God and reign with Christ for a thousand years, a millennium. What is this “first resurrection” and who are those who share in it? The first resurrection began with
December 29, 2019
WILL YOU SHARE IN THE FIRST RESURRECTION? John saw a day when all those who share in the “first resurrection” would serve as priests of God and reign with Christ for a thousand years, a millennium. What is this “first resurrection” and who are those who share in it? The first resurrection began with
December 29, 2017
This is the Great White Throne judgment of God. This is not a trial, for the verdict is already in. This is a sentencing. And the resurrected dead both great and small will “stand” (12) for the verdict, which is the “second death” (14).
There appear to be two resurrections and two judgment seats in Scripture. The “first resurrection” (5-6) is for those found in Christ. They will appear before the “judgment seat of Christ” (2 Cor. 5:10). The Greek word translated “judgment seat” is “bema.” The Greek “bema” is not a seat of criminal justice, but of ceremonial reward, as is seen in those who judge at the olympic games. For Christ has already paid the price for their justification. What remains is the giving out of crowns and reward according to their works of faith.
The second resurrection is for those who died without Christ. They will stand for the Great White Throne judgment and be sentenced.
The modern mind may reject the idea of God and a final judgment. Yet, the Word of God is clear. “It is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment” (Heb. 9:27).
December 29, 2014
There is much debate about the meaning of Revelation chapter 20 and its description of the millennial kingdom (1,000 years reign). Yet, most agree on the interpretation concerning the “Book of Life.” If your name is in the Book, you have eternal life. If your name isn’t in the book, you are condemned to experience the second death, which is eternal separation from God in Hell. I remember singing a song in church when I was young that went like this: ““My name is in the book of Life, oh bless the name of Jesus; I rise above all doubt and strife, And read my title clear. I know, I know, My name is there; I know, I know, My name is written there.” Is your name written there?
December 29, 2011
The Great White Throne judgment is here described. As we approach the end of 2011, we should consider God’s approaching judgment. Only those whose name is in the Lamb’s Book of Life will enter into everlasting life.