THE BOOKS WILL BE OPENED: ARE YOU READY?
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Revelation 20:12
Supporting Texts: Daniel 7:10, Hebrews 9:27, Romans 14:10-12, Ecclesiastes 12:14, 2 Corinthians 5:10
INTRODUCTION:
The final judgment is a certainty that no one can escape. The Word of God declares that there is a day when the books will be opened, and every person will be judged according to their works. This is not a fictional idea or a metaphor—it is the eternal truth of God’s Word. Revelation 20:12 presents this divine courtroom scene where heaven and earth flee away, and every soul stands before the throne of God.
These books contain the records of all that we have done, both great and small. God has perfect knowledge and remembrance. He needs no witnesses; the books will speak for themselves. Our thoughts, intentions, words, and deeds are all recorded, and they will be revealed on that day. What we often forget or hide will be exposed before the Righteous Judge.
This sermon is a call to personal reflection and urgency. It is not enough to go to church or merely profess Christianity. The big question is this: Are you ready? Are your garments white? Is your name in the Book of Life? Will your works stand the test of divine judgment? Now is the time to examine ourselves and ensure that we are truly walking in righteousness.
1. GOD’S RECORDS ARE COMPLETE AND ACCURATE
a) God Sees and Records Everything
(Hebrews 4:13) Nothing is hidden before God. Every action and word is recorded.
b) The Books Contain the Works of Men
(Revelation 20:12) These are detailed accounts of each person’s deeds.
c) There Is No Error in God’s Judgment
(Psalm 96:13) He shall judge the world with righteousness and truth.
d) God’s Memory Cannot Be Manipulated
(Jeremiah 17:10) He searches the heart and gives to everyone according to their works.
e) Biblical Example: Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1-11) – God exposed the secret deceit in their hearts through divine knowledge.
2. THE BOOK OF LIFE IS THE FINAL STANDARD
a) Only the Redeemed Are Written in It
(Luke 10:20) Rejoice because your names are written in heaven.
b) It Is a Register of the Righteous
(Philippians 4:3) True believers have their names in this book.
c) Anyone Not Found in It Will Be Cast Into the Lake of Fire
(Revelation 20:15) This is the second death.
d) We Must Ensure Our Names Are Not Blotted Out
(Revelation 3:5) Jesus will not blot out the names of the overcomers.
e) Biblical Example: Moses interceded for Israel, saying, “Blot me out of Your book…” (Exodus 32:32-33) – This shows the importance of the Book of Life.
3. EVERY PERSON WILL STAND BEFORE GOD
a) Judgment Is Appointed for All
(Hebrews 9:27) It is appointed for man to die once, and after this—judgment.
b) There Will Be No Escape
(Romans 14:12) Each of us will give an account of ourselves to God.
c) God Judges Impartially
(Colossians 3:25) There is no partiality with God.
d) The Great and Small Will Stand Before Him
(Revelation 20:12) Social status will not matter on that day.
e) Biblical Example: The rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31) – Both faced judgment regardless of earthly status.
4. OUR WORKS WILL BE TESTED
a) Every Deed Will Be Examined
(Ecclesiastes 12:14) God will bring every work into judgment.
b) Our Motives Matter
(1 Corinthians 4:5) God will reveal the counsels of the hearts.
c) Faith Without Works Is Dead
(James 2:26) Genuine faith produces godly actions.
d) Rewards Will Be Given Accordingly
(2 Corinthians 5:10) We will receive according to what we have done.
e) Biblical Example: The talents (Matthew 25:14-30) – Each servant was rewarded or punished based on their works.
5. NOW IS THE TIME TO PREPARE
a) Today Is the Day of Salvation
(2 Corinthians 6:2) Do not postpone your decision for Christ.
b) Repentance Must Be Genuine
(Acts 3:19) Repent and be converted that your sins may be blotted out.
c) We Must Walk in Righteousness Daily
(Titus 2:11-12) Grace teaches us to deny ungodliness and live righteously.
d) There Will Be No Second Chance After Death
(Luke 16:26) A great chasm separates the righteous and the wicked after death.
e) Biblical Example: Noah prepared the ark in obedience (Genesis 6:13-22) – His preparation saved him and condemned the world.
CONCLUSION:
The books will be opened. It is not a question of if, but when. Are you ready for that day? Your title, fame, or earthly success will not matter in that moment. What matters is whether your name is in the Book of Life and if your works are acceptable before God. This is a day that demands we live with eternity in view.
Let us not delay or deceive ourselves. Every passing day brings us closer to that moment. Now is the time to surrender completely to Christ. Let us examine our lives, turn away from sin, and walk in the fear of the Lord. May we be among those who hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me to live daily in the consciousness of eternity.
2. Father, let my name be written and remain in the Book of Life.
3. Lord, purify my heart and help me walk in righteousness.
4. Help me to do works that will stand the test of judgment.
5. Lord, I receive grace to prepare fully for Your judgment seat.
