The Book of Life
Len Wilkerson, DO, MBA, MPH, FAAFP
Private investor & Author Former SVP UnitedHealthCare
There is one essential question that each person must consider and answer in this life: Is my name written in the Lamb’s Book of Life? We should reflect on this serious matter with great care. If our name is written in the Lamb's Book of Life, we will respond to the gospel by believing in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. For the person who rejects Christ, they will never kneel before God or confess Jesus as Lord. They will die in their sins and face eternal separation from Him. Jesus warned us in John 8:24: “Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for unless you believe that I Am, you will die in your sins.” This is why we must be mindful of what the apostle Peter told us to ensure we are saved. 2 Peter 1:10-11: “... make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble, and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” The Book of Life was written by God Himself in eternity, before time and creation. It lists the names of those whom God foreknew and loved, whom He chose to receive eternal life. While the number of such individuals is small, it is crucial to ensure that we are part of this select group. Why is this significant? Because we all must confront death, whether it comes next week or next year, as each of us has an appointed time. I urge everyone to read these Bible verses. Philippians 4:3: “... whose names are in the book of life.” Luke 10:20: “... rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” Hebrews 12:23: “... and to the assembly of the firstborn who are enrolled in heaven” Daniel 12:1: “... But at that time your people shall be delivered, everyone whose name shall be found written in the book,” meaning they will be saved. In Luke 8:26–39, we read about the man possessed by a legion of demons. This man was tormented by two thousand demons, yet Jesus came to seek him out in the land of the Gadarenes because his name was written in the Lamb’s Book of Life. Jesus saved him, and when the man wanted to follow Him, Jesus instructed him, “No, go back home and tell them what God has done for you.” Just as Jesus sought out this man, He will also seek and save us. Individuals whose names are not found in the Book of Life will plead with Christ, arguing that they were good enough to enter heaven. However, Jesus will refer to the records in the books to demonstrate that no life is ever good enough to earn entrance to heaven, as entry is based on God’s grace rather than works. Our salvation is demonstrated by our belief and obedience to our Lord Jesus Christ rather than by our own self-declaration. When we hear the gospel preached, we repent and put complete trust and faith in Jesus Christ. Other people will have animosity towards the gospel and be adversaries of Jesus Christ. Paul told us in Romans 5:1: “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” This symbolizes our enduring security.
Private investor & Author Former SVP UnitedHealthCare
2 周The Bible frequently talks about the Book of Life. What is this book? Is your name written within it? Check out my new article on this topic.