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Revelation 20:11
Verse
Context
Judgment before the Great White Throne
10And the devil who had deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur, into which the beast and the false prophet had already been thrown. There they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.11Then I saw a great white throne and the One seated on it. Earth and heaven fled from His presence, and no place was found for them. 12And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne. And there were open books, and one of them was the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their deeds, as recorded in the books.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
A great white throne - Refulgent with glorious majesty. Him that sat on it - The indescribable Jehovah. From whose face the earth and the heaven fled away - Even the brightness of his countenance dissolved the universe, and annihilated the laws by which it was governed. This is a very majestic figure, and finely expressed. There was found no place for them - The glorious majesty of God filling all things, and being all in all.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
great--in contrast to the "thrones," Rev 20:4. white--the emblem of purity and justice. him that sat on it--the Father [ALFORD]. Rather, the Son, to whom "the Father hath committed all judgment." God in Christ, that is, the Father represented by the Son, is He before whose judgment-seat we must all stand. The Son's mediatorial reign is with a view to prepare the kingdom for the Father's acceptance. When He has done that, He shall give it up to the Father, "that God may be all in all," coming into direct communion with His creatures, without intervention of a Mediator, for the first time since the fall. Heretofore Christ's Prophetical mediation had been prominent in His earthly ministry, His Priestly mediation is prominent now in heaven between His first and second advents, and His Kingly shall be so during the millennium and at the general judgment. earth and heaven fled away--The final conflagration, therefore, precedes the general judgment. This is followed by the new heaven and earth (Rev. 21:1-27).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And I saw a great white throne,.... This vision refers not to the Gospel dispensation, from the exaltation of Christ to his second coming; when he sat down on his throne at the right hand of God, and was declared Lord and Christ; when there was a shaking of the heavens and the earth, a removing of the Mosaic economy, and the ordinances of the ceremonial law in Judea, and of Paganism in the Gentile world; when the Gospel was preached to all nations, and the dead in sins were quickened, and arose and stood before the throne of grace; when the books of the Scriptures were opened and explained, and the book of life was also opened; and by the conversion of some, and not others, it was known who were written in it and who were not, and men were judged to be alive or dead in a spiritual sense, according to the influence the opening of these books had upon them; and the powers of the world, comparable to a sea, and of death and hell, were not able to hold in the dead in sin, when they were called to life, with respect to whom death and hell were destroyed; nor was the Gospel the savour of death to any but to such who were not written in the book of life. This, in other words, is the sum of Cocceius's sense of this vision; but this affair will be over, and all God's elect gathered in by the preaching of the Gospel, before this vision takes place: nor does it respect the restoration of the Jews, who now are as dead, like Ezekiel's dry bones, but will at this time be quickened, and stand upon their feet an exceeding great army, and will be gathered from the several parts where they are as dead; and when it will be known by their conduct and behaviour who are God's elect among them, and who are not; which is Brightman's interpretation of the vision: but this, as we have seen, will come to pass according to the vision in the preceding chapter, before the thousand years begin; whereas this vision will not begin to be accomplished until they are ended: it is best therefore to understand it of the general judgment at the last day, which is the common sense of ancient and modern interpreters; though it seems only to regard the judgment of the wicked, for no other are made mention of in it: the "throne" here seen is a throne of judgment; it is called a "great" one, because a great Person sat upon it, the Word of God, the King of kings and Lord of lords, even he who is the great God, and Judge of the whole earth; and because of the great work that will be transacted upon it, the judgment of all the wicked; this will be the greatest assize that ever was held; it is called the judgment of the great day, and the great and dreadful day of the Lord, Jde 1:6, Mal 4:5 this throne is also said to be a "white" one; just as the same Person is said to sit upon a white cloud, and ride upon a white horse, Rev 14:14 it may be in allusion either to a white and serene cloud, or to a throne of ivory, such an one as Solomon made, Ch2 9:17 and this is either expressive of the majesty and splendour of it, it being a throne of glory, or a glorious throne, Mat 25:31 or else it may denote the purity and justice of him that sits on it, according to which he will proceed in judgment, and finish it; his character is the righteous judge, and the judgment he will execute will be righteous judgment: and him that sat on it; the throne was not empty, one sat upon it, who is no other than the Son of God; to whom all judgment is committed, and who is ordained to be Judge of quick and dead; and is every way fit for it, being of great knowledge, wisdom, and sagacity, and of great integrity and faithfulness, as man and Mediator, and being, as God, both omniscient and omnipotent, and so capable both of passing a right sentence, and of executing it; to which may be added, his great majesty and glory, necessary to strike an awe, and command an attention to him: from whose face the earth and the heavens fled away, and there was found no place for them; which is to be understood not figuratively, as in Rev 6:14 where in the one place is described the destruction of Paganism, and in the other the destruction of the Papacy, and all antichristian powers; but literally, and not of the present earth and heaven, as they now are, for these will be burnt up with fire at the beginning of the thousand years, but of the new heaven and new earth, at the end of them; and the phrases of fleeing away, and place being found no more for them, show the entire annihilation and utter abolition of them; after this there will be no place in being but the heaven of angels and saints, and the lake of fire, in which are the devils and damned spirits: but though this is mentioned here, it will not be till after the judgment is over; for how otherwise will the dead have a place to stand in before the throne, or hell, that is the grave, and also the sea, give up their dead, Rev 20:12 but it is observed here, though afterwards done, to set off the majesty of the Judge upon the throne, at whose sight, and by whose power, this will be effected.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
The utter destruction of the devil's kingdom very properly leads to an account of the day of judgment, which will determine every man's everlasting state; and we may be assured there will be a judgment when we see the prince of this world is judged, Joh 16:11. This will be a great day, the great day, when all shall appear before the judgment-seat of Christ. The Lord help us firmly to believe this doctrine of the judgment to come. It is a doctrine that made Felix tremble. Here we have a description of it, where observe, 1. We behold the throne, and tribunal of judgment, great and white, very glorious and perfectly just and righteous. The throne of iniquity, that establishes wickedness by a law, has no fellowship with this righteous throne and tribunal. 2. The appearance of the Judge, and that is the Lord Jesus Christ, who then puts on such majesty and terror that the earth and the heaven flee from his face, and there is no place found for them; there is a dissolution of the whole frame of nature, Pe2 3:10. 3. The persons to be judged (Rev 20:12): The dead, small and great; that is, young and old, low and high, poor and rich. None are so mean but they have some talents to account for, and none so great as to avoid the jurisdiction of this court; not only those that are found alive at the coming of Christ, but all who have died before; the grave shall surrender the bodies of men, hell shall surrender the souls of the wicked, the sea shall surrender the many who seemed to have been lost in it. 4. The rule of judgment settled: The books were opened. What books? The books of God's omniscience, who is greater than our consciences, and knows all things (there is a book of remembrance with him both for good and bad); and the book of the sinner's conscience, which, though formerly secret, will now be opened. And another book shall be opened - the book of the scriptures, the statute-book of heaven, the rule of life. This book is opened as containing the law, the touchstone by which the hearts and lives of men are to be tried. This book determines matter of right; the other books give evidence of matters of fact. Some, by the other book, called the book of life, understand the book of God's eternal counsels; but that does not seem to belong to the affair of judgment: in eternal election God does not act judicially, but with absolute sovereign freedom. 5. The cause to be tried; and that is, the works of men, what they have done and whether it be good or evil. By their works men shall be justified or condemned; for though God knows their state and their principles, and looks chiefly at these, yet, being to approve himself to angels and men as a righteous God, he will try their principles by their practices, and so will be justified when he speaks and clear when he judges. 6. The issue of the trial and judgment; and this will be according to the evidence of fact, and rule of judgment. All those who have made a covenant with death, and an agreement with hell, shall then be condemned with their infernal confederates, cast with them into the lake of fire, as not being entitled to eternal life, according to the rules of life laid down in the scripture; but those whose names are written in that book (that is, those that are justified and acquitted by the gospel) shall then be justified and acquitted by the Judge, and shall enter into eternal life, having nothing more to fear from death, or hell, or wicked men; for these are all destroyed together. Let it be our great concern to see on what terms we stand with our Bibles, whether they justify us or condemn us now; for the Judge of all will proceed by that rule. Christ shall judge the secrets of all men according to the gospel. Happy are those who have so ordered and stated their cause according to the gospel as to know beforehand that they shall be justified in the great day of the Lord!
Tyndale Open Study Notes
20:11-15 This segment portrays a court hearing at which the dead are judged on the basis of their works. God’s response to eternal rebellion is eternal punishment.
Revelation 20:11
Judgment before the Great White Throne
10And the devil who had deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur, into which the beast and the false prophet had already been thrown. There they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.11Then I saw a great white throne and the One seated on it. Earth and heaven fled from His presence, and no place was found for them. 12And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne. And there were open books, and one of them was the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their deeds, as recorded in the books.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Judgement Seat - Part 1
By Leonard Ravenhill9.2K42:39JudgmentAccountabilityJudgment Seat Of ChristREV 20:11Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the gravity of the Judgment Seat of Christ, highlighting the finality of judgment for both the righteous and the unrighteous. He describes the book of Revelation as a profound revelation of Jesus Christ, underscoring the eternal consequences of one's actions and the reality of hell for those not found in the Book of Life. Ravenhill warns that all will stand before God, where their deeds will be revealed, and stresses the importance of living a life that reflects true faith and obedience to Christ. He calls for a deeper understanding of God's majesty and the seriousness of judgment, urging believers to consider their motives and the eternal implications of their lives. The sermon serves as a sobering reminder of the accountability each person has before God.
If You Faced Death Right Now
By Keith Daniel5.1K1:07:53DeathPreparation for DeathUrgency of SalvationHEB 9:27REV 20:11Keith Daniel emphasizes the urgency of being prepared to meet God, reflecting on the reality of death and judgment as outlined in Hebrews 9:27 and Revelation 20:11-15. He shares personal experiences of witnessing death and the profound peace that comes from knowing Christ, urging listeners to consider their own readiness for eternity. Daniel recounts stories of individuals who faced death, highlighting the importance of warning others about the consequences of sin and the necessity of repentance. He challenges the congregation to reflect on their lives and relationships, particularly with those they may consider enemies, and to act with love and urgency in sharing the Gospel. Ultimately, he calls for a deep, personal commitment to Christ, encouraging all to seek salvation while there is still time.
Great White Throne of Judgement
By Manley Beasley3.8K30:02Judgment SeatPHP 2:10REV 20:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing and reaching out to those who are lost and in need of salvation. He emphasizes that God has placed us in families and neighborhoods for a purpose, and it is our responsibility to share the message of Jesus Christ with others. The preacher warns of the consequences of not accepting Jesus as the Son of God and the need for salvation. He urges the congregation to be the body of Christ on earth, allowing Him free access to work through them to bring others to salvation. The sermon concludes with a reminder that there will be a great white throne judgment where those who have not accepted Jesus will cry out for mercy, and the preacher encourages the congregation to do their part in reaching the lost before it is too late.
Easter Morning
By Carter Conlon3.1K31:25EasterMAT 7:24JHN 6:37ROM 3:23ROM 6:23REV 20:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that everything we long for in life, such as purpose, direction, and stability, can be found in Jesus. He quotes Jesus' words about building our lives on a foundation that cannot be shaken. The speaker also discusses the challenges and uncertainties of life, including sudden changes and the impending final shaking of the world. He highlights the love and grace of Jesus, who took upon himself the punishment for our sins and offers forgiveness and a new life. The speaker passionately urges the audience to taste and see that God is good and to embrace the new life of forgiveness that Jesus offers.
Judgment Seat of Christ - Part 1 (Alternative 2)
By Leonard Ravenhill1.9K58:20Judgment SeatMAT 25:31ROM 14:101CO 3:111CO 6:32CO 5:10REV 20:11REV 22:12In this sermon, Brother Gordon Best expresses gratitude for the hospitality and support he has received during his time at the church. He acknowledges that preaching can elicit different reactions from people, making them sad, mad, or glad. He humbly recognizes that no one can do God a favor, regardless of their sacrifices. The sermon focuses on the neglected aspect of eschatology, specifically the judgment seat of Christ. Brother Best mentions the judgment of the unsaved and the judgment of believers, referencing passages from the book of Revelation and the first epistle of Paul to the Corinthians.
The Four Warnings of God
By Keith Daniel1.8K1:02:41WarningGEN 2:3GEN 3:22GEN 6:3ISA 40:9REV 20:11In this sermon, Brother Denny discusses four gripping moments in the Bible where God looked and warned humanity. Firstly, God warned mankind during the creation, urging them not to harden their hearts. Secondly, God warned mankind when corruption entered the world and led to their separation from Him. Thirdly, God warned mankind about the importance of accepting salvation through Jesus Christ. Lastly, God warned mankind about their ultimate destination, as described in the book of Revelation. The sermon emphasizes the urgency of seeking God and accepting His gift of eternal life while there is still time.
The Great White Throne Judgment
By David Legge1.5K45:51REV 20:11This sermon emphasizes the reality of judgment day and the eternal consequences for those who are unconverted, highlighting the need for repentance and belief in Jesus Christ to avoid the second death in the lake of fire. The speaker vividly describes the scene of the great white throne judgment from Revelation, urging listeners to awaken to the truth of God's Word and the seriousness of sin. The message stresses the importance of acknowledging God's holiness, the need for salvation through Christ, and the eternal separation from God for those who reject His offer of grace.
Where Is the Wrath of God, What the Prosperity Preachers Will Not Mention by Michael Brown
By Micheal L. Brown1.3K10:12MAT 3:10MAT 5:22MAT 10:28HEB 12:29REV 20:11This sermon delves into the often overlooked topic of the wrath of God, emphasizing its importance as a fundamental truth from the Old Testament to the New Testament. It highlights the warnings given by John the Baptist and Jesus about the consequences of sin and the reality of hell, urging believers to take seriously the concept of judgment and God's righteous anger. The speaker challenges the church to preach the full message of God's love and wrath, emphasizing the need for reverence, fear of God, and a deeper understanding of the significance of the cross.
He Hath Appointed a Day
By Paris Reidhead1.1K34:28Judgment DayJHN 5:22ROM 14:12REV 20:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the personal responsibility of both the speaker and the listener when it comes to the preaching of the word of God. The speaker acknowledges that they will be held accountable for what they say and their motives behind it when they stand before the judgment seat of Christ. The preacher also highlights the responsibility of the listeners to actively engage with the word of God and accept the spiritual nourishment provided by their church community. The sermon focuses on the concept of judgment, specifically the judgment of believers, and emphasizes the importance of performing good works with the right motives. The preacher references biblical passages such as John 5:22 and Acts 17 to support these teachings.
Soaring 3 - Anointing
By Gareth Evans1.0K37:31FreedomMAT 14:26MRK 6:49REV 20:11In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of facing judgment in a courtroom setting. He mentions a specific internet program called Sermon Index and talks about a young webmaster who will be moving to Victoria. The speaker emphasizes the importance of facing the ultimate judgment before the great white throne and how one should plead guilty as a sinner. He also touches on the perception of Jesus and the Holy Spirit as intangible beings and shares a story about a man named Lez who came to the Lord. The sermon concludes with a story about a young man in a courtroom during the revival times who insisted on pleading guilty, leading to a conversation with the judge about the exercise of judgment.
(Second Coming of Christ) 11 a Final Assize and a Final Abode
By Aeron Morgan91644:33SalvationSecond ComingFinal JudgmentREV 20:11Aeron Morgan delivers a powerful sermon on the final judgment as depicted in Revelation 20, emphasizing the great white throne where all the dead will be judged according to their works. He highlights the significance of the Lamb of God, who will be the judge, and the importance of having one's name written in the book of life to avoid eternal condemnation. Morgan warns that even during Christ's reign, sin will persist, and the final judgment will reveal the true nature of humanity. He urges listeners to live righteously and to share the gospel to save others from the impending judgment. The sermon concludes with a call to ensure one's salvation and to actively reach out to the lost.
2 Peter 3:12
By John Gill0EschatologyReadiness for Christ's ReturnMAT 24:42LUK 12:35ROM 8:191CO 4:31TH 5:2HEB 10:25JAS 5:72PE 3:10REV 20:11REV 22:12John Gill emphasizes the significance of eagerly anticipating the day of God, which refers to Christ's second coming and final judgment. He explains that this day will reveal God's true nature and fulfill His promises, distinguishing it from human judgment. Believers are encouraged to look forward to this day with faith and love, actively praying for its hastening while remaining prepared and vigilant in their spiritual lives. Gill highlights the dual nature of this day, bringing both grace to the faithful and judgment to the wicked, ultimately culminating in God's eternal reign. The sermon calls for a readiness and eagerness among the saints as they await this glorious event.
2 Peter 3:10
By John Gill0Preparedness for JudgmentThe Second ComingISA 65:17MAT 24:44LUK 2:82CO 5:17GAL 4:31TH 5:22TH 1:7HEB 12:262PE 3:10REV 20:11John Gill emphasizes the certainty and suddenness of the Lord's return, likening it to a thief coming in the night, which signifies an unexpected and unannounced arrival. He explains that this event will bring about the passing away of the heavens and the earth, purging them through fire, and that all earthly works will be consumed. Gill also notes that this prophecy was known not only to the Jews but also to various philosophers and poets of the time, indicating its significance across cultures. He suggests that while some interpretations may refer to the destruction of Jerusalem, the ultimate meaning points to the final judgment and renewal of creation. The sermon serves as a reminder of the urgency to be prepared for the Lord's return.
The End of the Age
By A.W. Tozer0JudgmentThe End TimesREV 20:11A.W. Tozer warns that the rising interest in spiritism and devil worship signals the nearing end of God's age of grace and mercy. He emphasizes that humanity's rebellion against God is reaching a tipping point, where divine judgment may soon be proclaimed. Tozer reminds us that the earth, though populated by rebels, has a divine origin and is under God's authority. He encourages believers to recognize that a better kingdom exists beyond this world, which God is preparing to reclaim. The sermon serves as a call to awareness and readiness for the impending judgment.
Part 9: Amillennial Eschatology
By John F. Walvoord0EZK 20:33MAT 25:312CO 5:92PE 2:4REV 20:4REV 20:11John F. Walvoord delves into the influence of amillennialism on eschatology, highlighting the stark contrast it poses to premillennial eschatology. He discusses the diverse systems within amillennialism, such as modern liberal theology, Roman Catholic theology, and conservative Reformed theology, emphasizing the lack of unity within amillennialism on major issues. Walvoord explores modern liberal eschatology's rejection of a future millennial kingdom on earth and its spiritualizing approach to Scripture, contrasting it with Roman Catholic eschatology's more literal interpretation of judgment, resurrection, and ultimate bliss for the saints.
God the Son: His Resurrection and Ascension
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0DAN 12:2JHN 5:25ACT 24:151CO 15:22PHP 3:111TH 4:161TI 6:162TI 1:10REV 20:4REV 20:11Lewis Sperry Chafer delves into the profound topic of resurrection, emphasizing the unique nature of Christ's resurrection as the 'firstfruits' and the order of procession in the resurrection of believers. He highlights the eternal significance of the resurrection, refuting the notion of a 'general resurrection' and explaining the pivotal role of Christ's resurrection in the divine plan. Chafer explores the relationship between Christ's resurrection and His death, the New Creation, and the observance of the first day of the week as a commemoration of the New Creation. He also outlines the seven reasons given in Scripture for Christ's resurrection and the two ascensions of Christ into Heaven, detailing the purposes and ministries associated with each ascension.
Judgment of the Believer's Works
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0JHN 3:18JHN 17:23ROM 5:1ROM 14:101CO 1:301CO 4:51CO 11:322CO 5:10EPH 1:6EPH 6:8COL 2:10COL 2:132TI 4:8HEB 10:14REV 20:11REV 22:12Lewis Sperry Chafer delves into the biblical teachings on judgment and rewards for believers. He emphasizes that the child of God, under grace, is assured not to come into judgment for their sins, as Christ has already borne the penalty for all sin past, present, and future. While believers are beyond condemnation and accepted in Christ's perfection, they will still give an account of their daily life and service before the judgment seat of Christ. The judgment seat of Christ evaluates the believer's works for rewards or loss of rewards, separate from their eternal salvation, which is secure through Christ's finished work.
Judgment of the Wicked
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0MAT 10:28MAT 25:46LUK 12:5JHN 5:25JHN 6:291CO 15:231TH 4:16REV 20:4REV 20:11Lewis Sperry Chafer delves into the Scriptures to explain the clear separation between the saved and the unsaved, emphasizing the future resurrection where all, both good and evil, will be raised from the dead by the command of the Son of God. The first resurrection, which includes the saved of all ages, precedes the final resurrection, where the rest of the dead are judged according to their works. The rejection of Christ is highlighted as the all-inclusive sin, leading to eternal condemnation. The importance of preaching the Gospel to all, even the heathen, is stressed, as Scripture teaches that belief in Christ is essential for salvation.
Omri and Ahab
By C.I. Scofield0GEN 6:51KI 16:231KI 16:28MAT 19:6EPH 5:31REV 20:11C.I. Scofield delves into the analysis of God's judgment on prosperous evil, as seen in the reign of Omri, and the greater wickedness of Ahab, particularly focusing on the impact of bad marriages and the importance of upholding the sanctity of marriage as a divine institution. The sermon emphasizes the contrast between human success and God's judgment, highlighting the eternal consequences of our actions and choices, especially in the context of marriage and relationships.
A Roman Soldier's Faith Matthew 8:5-13; Luke 7:1-10
By David Servant0MAT 7:13MAT 8:5MAT 8:10MAT 8:12LUK 7:1REV 20:11David Servant preaches about the remarkable faith of the Roman centurion, a non-Jewish man who displayed humility, love for the Jewish people, and a deep reverence for Jesus. Despite being a Roman soldier, the centurion's faith in Jesus' authority over sickness surpassed that of many Jewish individuals. Jesus commended the centurion's faith and used this encounter to teach about the inclusivity of the kingdom of heaven, where faith, not nationality, determines one's place. The centurion's faith not only brought healing to his servant but also serves as a powerful example of genuine belief in Jesus, which transcends cultural barriers and expectations.
Christian Fundamentalism -6
By Anton Bosch0ZEC 4:6LUK 21:33JHN 15:181CO 3:152CO 5:10JUD 1:3REV 20:11Anton Bosch concludes the series on Christian Fundamentalism by emphasizing the importance of accountability to God, highlighting the eternal consequences for both the unsaved and Christians based on their actions and faith. He stresses the distinction between Christian fundamentalism and radicalism, advocating for a peaceful and civil approach in promoting faith. Persecution is expected for believers, as the gospel prepares them to be rejected by the world. The sermon concludes with a reminder that a fundamental Christian's life is built on Jesus Christ, offering a hopeful future in His everlasting heavenly kingdom.
The Great White Throne
By Jack Hyles0MAT 18:12JHN 3:3JHN 14:6ROM 6:23REV 20:11Jack Hyles preaches about the importance of salvation and the consequences of rejecting Jesus Christ, emphasizing the urgency of accepting Him to avoid the Great White Throne Judgment. He highlights the significance of being saved before facing the judgment, as Jesus is interceding for us in Heaven. Hyles stresses the need for individuals to receive Christ, especially at a young age, as statistics show a higher likelihood of salvation before the age of 25. He explains the sequence of events leading up to the Great White Throne Judgment, the importance of staying after sinners to lead them to Christ, and the eternal consequences of not having one's name in the Book of Life.
If We Would, We May
By A.W. Tozer0MAT 2:131CO 6:181TI 6:11HEB 11:34JAS 4:7REV 16:20REV 20:11The preacher delves into the meaning of 'flee' (pheugo) in the Bible, emphasizing its significance in seeking safety, escaping danger, avoiding evil, and shunning immorality. The sermon highlights the promise that when believers submit to God and resist the devil, he will flee, stressing the importance of continuous submission and resistance in spiritual battles. Various Bible verses are explored to illustrate instances of fleeing in the Bible, from escaping physical threats to shunning sin and idolatry.
Prayer - 2 Peter 1:2, 3
By A.W. Pink0DEU 10:171SA 16:72CH 19:7PSA 62:12ACT 10:34ROM 2:111CO 3:132CO 5:9HEB 12:5REV 20:11The preacher delves into the concept of impartiality, explaining that God does not show favoritism based on outward appearances or worldly standards. Various Bible verses are explored to highlight God's attribute of impartiality, emphasizing that He judges everyone based on their character and deeds, without partiality. The sermon also touches on the future judgment of believers and unbelievers, underscoring the importance of living a life that pleases God and striving for rewards in heaven through good works.
William Kelly
By John Bjorlie0JHN 14:61CO 1:182CO 12:9PHP 4:71TH 5:171JN 2:151JN 5:8REV 20:11John Bjorlie preaches about the life and legacy of William Kelly, a dedicated Bible teacher and controversialist who faced challenges and opposition within the assemblies he labored with. Despite being excommunicated for ecclesiastical 'independence,' Kelly continued to serve God faithfully, leaving a lasting impact through his written ministry and lectures. His unwavering faith and devotion to God, even in the face of personal loss and adversity, serve as an inspiration for believers to stand firm in their beliefs and trust in the love of God.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
A great white throne - Refulgent with glorious majesty. Him that sat on it - The indescribable Jehovah. From whose face the earth and the heaven fled away - Even the brightness of his countenance dissolved the universe, and annihilated the laws by which it was governed. This is a very majestic figure, and finely expressed. There was found no place for them - The glorious majesty of God filling all things, and being all in all.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
great--in contrast to the "thrones," Rev 20:4. white--the emblem of purity and justice. him that sat on it--the Father [ALFORD]. Rather, the Son, to whom "the Father hath committed all judgment." God in Christ, that is, the Father represented by the Son, is He before whose judgment-seat we must all stand. The Son's mediatorial reign is with a view to prepare the kingdom for the Father's acceptance. When He has done that, He shall give it up to the Father, "that God may be all in all," coming into direct communion with His creatures, without intervention of a Mediator, for the first time since the fall. Heretofore Christ's Prophetical mediation had been prominent in His earthly ministry, His Priestly mediation is prominent now in heaven between His first and second advents, and His Kingly shall be so during the millennium and at the general judgment. earth and heaven fled away--The final conflagration, therefore, precedes the general judgment. This is followed by the new heaven and earth (Rev. 21:1-27).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And I saw a great white throne,.... This vision refers not to the Gospel dispensation, from the exaltation of Christ to his second coming; when he sat down on his throne at the right hand of God, and was declared Lord and Christ; when there was a shaking of the heavens and the earth, a removing of the Mosaic economy, and the ordinances of the ceremonial law in Judea, and of Paganism in the Gentile world; when the Gospel was preached to all nations, and the dead in sins were quickened, and arose and stood before the throne of grace; when the books of the Scriptures were opened and explained, and the book of life was also opened; and by the conversion of some, and not others, it was known who were written in it and who were not, and men were judged to be alive or dead in a spiritual sense, according to the influence the opening of these books had upon them; and the powers of the world, comparable to a sea, and of death and hell, were not able to hold in the dead in sin, when they were called to life, with respect to whom death and hell were destroyed; nor was the Gospel the savour of death to any but to such who were not written in the book of life. This, in other words, is the sum of Cocceius's sense of this vision; but this affair will be over, and all God's elect gathered in by the preaching of the Gospel, before this vision takes place: nor does it respect the restoration of the Jews, who now are as dead, like Ezekiel's dry bones, but will at this time be quickened, and stand upon their feet an exceeding great army, and will be gathered from the several parts where they are as dead; and when it will be known by their conduct and behaviour who are God's elect among them, and who are not; which is Brightman's interpretation of the vision: but this, as we have seen, will come to pass according to the vision in the preceding chapter, before the thousand years begin; whereas this vision will not begin to be accomplished until they are ended: it is best therefore to understand it of the general judgment at the last day, which is the common sense of ancient and modern interpreters; though it seems only to regard the judgment of the wicked, for no other are made mention of in it: the "throne" here seen is a throne of judgment; it is called a "great" one, because a great Person sat upon it, the Word of God, the King of kings and Lord of lords, even he who is the great God, and Judge of the whole earth; and because of the great work that will be transacted upon it, the judgment of all the wicked; this will be the greatest assize that ever was held; it is called the judgment of the great day, and the great and dreadful day of the Lord, Jde 1:6, Mal 4:5 this throne is also said to be a "white" one; just as the same Person is said to sit upon a white cloud, and ride upon a white horse, Rev 14:14 it may be in allusion either to a white and serene cloud, or to a throne of ivory, such an one as Solomon made, Ch2 9:17 and this is either expressive of the majesty and splendour of it, it being a throne of glory, or a glorious throne, Mat 25:31 or else it may denote the purity and justice of him that sits on it, according to which he will proceed in judgment, and finish it; his character is the righteous judge, and the judgment he will execute will be righteous judgment: and him that sat on it; the throne was not empty, one sat upon it, who is no other than the Son of God; to whom all judgment is committed, and who is ordained to be Judge of quick and dead; and is every way fit for it, being of great knowledge, wisdom, and sagacity, and of great integrity and faithfulness, as man and Mediator, and being, as God, both omniscient and omnipotent, and so capable both of passing a right sentence, and of executing it; to which may be added, his great majesty and glory, necessary to strike an awe, and command an attention to him: from whose face the earth and the heavens fled away, and there was found no place for them; which is to be understood not figuratively, as in Rev 6:14 where in the one place is described the destruction of Paganism, and in the other the destruction of the Papacy, and all antichristian powers; but literally, and not of the present earth and heaven, as they now are, for these will be burnt up with fire at the beginning of the thousand years, but of the new heaven and new earth, at the end of them; and the phrases of fleeing away, and place being found no more for them, show the entire annihilation and utter abolition of them; after this there will be no place in being but the heaven of angels and saints, and the lake of fire, in which are the devils and damned spirits: but though this is mentioned here, it will not be till after the judgment is over; for how otherwise will the dead have a place to stand in before the throne, or hell, that is the grave, and also the sea, give up their dead, Rev 20:12 but it is observed here, though afterwards done, to set off the majesty of the Judge upon the throne, at whose sight, and by whose power, this will be effected.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
The utter destruction of the devil's kingdom very properly leads to an account of the day of judgment, which will determine every man's everlasting state; and we may be assured there will be a judgment when we see the prince of this world is judged, Joh 16:11. This will be a great day, the great day, when all shall appear before the judgment-seat of Christ. The Lord help us firmly to believe this doctrine of the judgment to come. It is a doctrine that made Felix tremble. Here we have a description of it, where observe, 1. We behold the throne, and tribunal of judgment, great and white, very glorious and perfectly just and righteous. The throne of iniquity, that establishes wickedness by a law, has no fellowship with this righteous throne and tribunal. 2. The appearance of the Judge, and that is the Lord Jesus Christ, who then puts on such majesty and terror that the earth and the heaven flee from his face, and there is no place found for them; there is a dissolution of the whole frame of nature, Pe2 3:10. 3. The persons to be judged (Rev 20:12): The dead, small and great; that is, young and old, low and high, poor and rich. None are so mean but they have some talents to account for, and none so great as to avoid the jurisdiction of this court; not only those that are found alive at the coming of Christ, but all who have died before; the grave shall surrender the bodies of men, hell shall surrender the souls of the wicked, the sea shall surrender the many who seemed to have been lost in it. 4. The rule of judgment settled: The books were opened. What books? The books of God's omniscience, who is greater than our consciences, and knows all things (there is a book of remembrance with him both for good and bad); and the book of the sinner's conscience, which, though formerly secret, will now be opened. And another book shall be opened - the book of the scriptures, the statute-book of heaven, the rule of life. This book is opened as containing the law, the touchstone by which the hearts and lives of men are to be tried. This book determines matter of right; the other books give evidence of matters of fact. Some, by the other book, called the book of life, understand the book of God's eternal counsels; but that does not seem to belong to the affair of judgment: in eternal election God does not act judicially, but with absolute sovereign freedom. 5. The cause to be tried; and that is, the works of men, what they have done and whether it be good or evil. By their works men shall be justified or condemned; for though God knows their state and their principles, and looks chiefly at these, yet, being to approve himself to angels and men as a righteous God, he will try their principles by their practices, and so will be justified when he speaks and clear when he judges. 6. The issue of the trial and judgment; and this will be according to the evidence of fact, and rule of judgment. All those who have made a covenant with death, and an agreement with hell, shall then be condemned with their infernal confederates, cast with them into the lake of fire, as not being entitled to eternal life, according to the rules of life laid down in the scripture; but those whose names are written in that book (that is, those that are justified and acquitted by the gospel) shall then be justified and acquitted by the Judge, and shall enter into eternal life, having nothing more to fear from death, or hell, or wicked men; for these are all destroyed together. Let it be our great concern to see on what terms we stand with our Bibles, whether they justify us or condemn us now; for the Judge of all will proceed by that rule. Christ shall judge the secrets of all men according to the gospel. Happy are those who have so ordered and stated their cause according to the gospel as to know beforehand that they shall be justified in the great day of the Lord!
Tyndale Open Study Notes
20:11-15 This segment portrays a court hearing at which the dead are judged on the basis of their works. God’s response to eternal rebellion is eternal punishment.