SWHW Bible Reading Plan: December 2021Sample

Top Takeaway from Jess Hatton:

Pay attention to the overarching truths rather than getting lost in the details. There is much to learn and absorb at every level of observation.  

This passage is one of the most highly debated passages in all of Scripture. Theologians worldwide dispute the timeline, imagery, and symbolic or literal events found here. As is the case in every part of Scripture, there is always more to be learned, but be careful as you read to take to heart truths you can learn on any level. Here are a few truths found: 

• Christ will return.  
• There will be a resurrection of believers.  
• Satan and his evil ones will be defeated. 
• People from every nation, tongue and economic level will stand before the white throne. 
• Everyone will be judged according to what they have done.  
• Those who put their trust in Christ will have their names in the book of life. 

Believers should look forward to this day and not live in fear because God’s Spirit dwells in us. (1 Cor. 3:16) The believer’s sins were paid for in full and covered by the blood of Jesus on the cross. It is His substitution and payment of our sins that wipes us clean and allows our names to be written in the Book of Life. 

He mediates for us. This mercy should bring us to thankfulness in Christ. Further, we should allow the Holy Spirit to work in us or bear fruit (“according to what they have done” v. 12) and be His Light to a world that is on the way to an eternity of torment without Jesus. 

Lord, this depiction is such a stark reality and one that I pray we would read and meditate on with careful respect of Your holiness. I ask that You would grant us grace as we try to navigate through Your description of a heavenly future. I ask that we would be able to put our trust in You as our Warrior, King, Author, and Supreme. Let it bring us to humility and thankfulness as we allow the Holy Spirit to work in us and share Your Good News with people around us who are lost and heading for an eternity without You.  Amen.