Introduction
As Christians, we often sing the beloved hymn "When the Roll is Called Up Yonder." The song stirs our hearts and reminds us of the day when we will stand before the Lord.
But have you ever paused to consider the weight of the words we sing?
The hymn speaks of a roll call in Heaven—a moment when God Himself will call out the names of those who belong to Him.
The question that should echo in our hearts is this: "When the roll is called up yonder, will your name be there?"
This sermon will explore the biblical truths surrounding this question, examining what it means to have our names written in the Lamb's Book of Life, the consequences of being absent from that roll call, and how we can be sure that our names are inscribed in Heaven.
1. The Significance of the Roll Call in Heaven
The concept of a heavenly roll call is rooted in Scripture. Revelation 20:12-15 paints a vivid picture of the final judgment:
"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... Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire."
Here, we see that the Book of Life contains the names of those who will inherit eternal life.
The roll call is not just a formality; it is a matter of eternal destiny. Being present in this book means being welcomed into the eternal presence of God, while being absent results in eternal separation from Him.
2. What It Means to Have Your Name Written in the Book of Life
The Bible makes it clear that having your name written in the Book of Life is synonymous with being saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. In Luke 10:20, after the disciples return from a mission trip where they experienced great spiritual victories, Jesus reminds them of what truly matters:
"However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven."
Our salvation is not based on our works or spiritual achievements but on the finished work of Christ on the cross.
When we place our trust in Jesus, our sins are forgiven, and our names are inscribed in the Book of Life. This is the only way to ensure that our names will be called on that great day.
3. The Consequences of Missing the Roll Call
What happens to those whose names are not found in the Book of Life?
The Bible is clear and sobering. Revelation 20:15 states:
"Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire."
It is a stark reminder that eternity without Christ is a reality.
The absence of a name from the roll call in Heaven signifies that a person has not accepted God's gift of salvation through Jesus. It leads to eternal separation from God, a fate so dire that it should cause us to examine our hearts and our standing with God.
4. Assurance of Salvation: How Can You Be Sure?
Given the seriousness of the heavenly roll call, it is crucial that we have assurance of our salvation.
The Apostle John wrote in 1 John 5:13:
"I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life."
God wants us to be certain of our salvation, and this assurance comes from our faith in Jesus Christ.
But how can we be sure?
Here are some key steps:
Faith in Christ Alone:
Salvation is found in no one else but Jesus.
Acts 4:12 states, "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved."
Trusting in Jesus as your Lord and Savior is the first step.
Repentance and a Changed Life:
True faith in Christ leads to a transformation of heart and life.
Our works do not save us, but they are evidence of our salvation. A life of repentance and growing in holiness is a sign that our faith is genuine.
The Witness of the Holy Spirit:
Romans 8:16 says, "The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children."
The Holy Spirit within us provides assurance, guiding us and affirming our place in God's family.
Perseverance in Faith:
Jesus said in Matthew 24:13, "But the one who stands firm to the end will be saved."
Genuine faith endures. Those who are truly saved will persevere in their faith until the end.
5. A Call to Self-Examination
Paul urges believers in 2 Corinthians 13:5 to "Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves."
This is not a call to doubt our salvation but to ensure that our faith is genuine.
Are you living in a way that reflects the grace you have received? Is your life marked by love, obedience, and a desire to grow closer to God? These are the fruits of a life that is securely written in the Book of Life.
6. The Urgency of the Gospel
As we ponder whether our names will be called up yonder, we must also consider those around us.
The reality of Heaven and Hell should motivate us to share the Gospel with urgency.
There are many who have yet to hear the Good News, and as believers, we are called to be witnesses to the saving grace of Jesus Christ.
In 2 Peter 3:9, we are reminded:
"The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance."
God's desire is for all to be saved and have their names written in the Book of Life.
We have a responsibility to share the hope we have in Christ with others.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the question "When the roll is called up yonder, will your name be there?" is one of eternal significance.
It is a question that demands our attention and action.
If you have placed your faith in Jesus Christ, your name is indeed written in the Lamb’s Book of Life, and you can look forward to that glorious day with confidence and joy.
However, if you are unsure, today is the day to make certain of your standing with God. Repent, believe in the Lord Jesus, and rest in the assurance that your name will be called when the roll is called up yonder.
And for those of us who are confident in our salvation, let this message stir us to share the Gospel with others, so that their names too may be written in Heaven.
May we all be ready when the roll is called, and may our hearts be filled with the hope of eternity with our Savior. Amen.
