Scripture
11And I saw a great white throne and the one sitting on it. The earth and sky fled from his presence, but they found no place to hide. 12I saw the dead, both great and small, standing before God’s throne. And the books were opened, including the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to what they had done, as recorded in the books. Revelation 20:11-12
Observation
There are actually two thrones in Heaven. One is for believers and one is for unbelievers. One is for those who are received into Heaven through the sacrificial work of Jesus and one is for those who were trying to get into Heaven through their own works. Paul writes in 1 Cor. 3:12-15 of how Christians will be assessed and rewarded for the work we have done before the Lord, but thanks to Jesus, won’t be punished for the sins we have committed. He goes on to explain in 1 Cor. 5:10, “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.” The other throne, is the white throne described here. There’s no hiding from this throne. Christians are hidden in Christ, but for those who’s names aren’t written in the Lamb’s Book of Life, they will be judged solely on their works and, will be sentenced to eternal judgment. All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God and yet most won’t admit this until they stand before the Great White Throne.
Application
American Christians don’t really understand monarchy because we live in a democracy where those in power are voted in to power by us. Maybe when we hear kingdom we think magic kingdom, Disneyland. The book of Revelation makes it clear that the Happiest Place on Earth is the point where one recognizes the monarchy of God before they leave this earth. Queen Elizabeth II passed away at Balmoral Castle last week at the age of 96. “After more than seven decades of rule, not only was she the United Kingdom’s longest reigning monarch, but had the title of Supreme Governor of the Church of England. This title reflects a genuine faith, which the queen didn’t hesitate to share. Through talks and speeches, she often discussed how her faith in Jesus inspired her to keep going throughout her reign. “For me, the life of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, whose birth we celebrate today, is an inspiration and an anchor in my life. A role model of reconciliation and forgiveness, he stretched out his hands in love, acceptance and healing. Christ’s example has taught me to seek to respect and value all people, of whatever faith or none.” (Christmas message, 2014). It’s clear that this monarch understood her need to come under the monarchy of God better than most. We live in an age of casting off any authority in the name of authenticity. Self is Savior and, if there is a throne, our fleeting emotions and feelings are reigning supreme from it. We live in a world that is quick to judge others, but denies any form of judgment or accountability. The throne I bow before on this earth will determine the throne I bow before in Heaven. The judgment seat of Christ or the Great White Throne. C.S. Lewis once said, “There are two kinds of people: those who say to God, ‘Thy will be done,’ and those to whom God says, ‘All right, then, have it your way.’ ”
Prayer
Jesus, You aren't a candidate in my life, You are King over my life! Your Heavenly Monarchy will guide me in an what feels like a rapidly decaying democracy. King of Kings, You aren't looking for my vote, You are looking for my heart. You don't want my endorsement, You want my involvement. I submit to the authority of Your Kingship in every area of my life.
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