DOCTRINES >> JUDGMENT
SDAH 416
The judgment has set, the books have been opened;
How shall we stand in that great day,
When every thought, and word, and action,
God, the righteous Judge, shall weigh?
Text
1
The judgment has set, the books have been opened;
How shall we stand in that great day,
When every thought, and word, and action,
God, the righteous Judge, shall weigh?
Refrain
How shall we stand in that great day?
How shall we stand in that great day?
Shall we be found before Him wanting?
Or with our sins all washed away?
2
The work is begun with those who are sleeping,
Soon will the living here be tried,
Out of the books of God’s remembrance,
His decision to abide.
3
O, how shall we stand that moment of searching,
When all our sins those books reveal?
When from that court, each case decided,
Shall be granted no appeal?
Hymn Info
Biblical Reference
(a) Dan 7:10; Matt 12:36; 2 Tim 4:8 (b) 1 Pet 4:17 (r) Dan 5:27
Author
Franklin E. Belden (1858-1945)
Year Published
1886
Metrical Number
11.8.9.7.Ref.
Composer
F.E. Belden
Year Composed
1886
Hymn Score
Piano Accompaniment
Notes
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The heavenly court scene of Daniel 7:9–14 depicts the central event of the chapter. The books; the Ancient of Days on the throne; and the Son of man, surrounded by heavenly clouds (Dan. 7:13) as He comes into the presence of the Ancient of Days, portray a scene of judgment in heaven. For the saints, who have been persecuted by the little horn, the judgment means vindication, salvation, and restoration. We should bear in mind that the judgment of the living will take place only when the time of probation closes and the seven last plagues begin to be poured on Babylon (Revelation 15, Revelation 16). But most important, we must not fear the judgment because the “Son of Man” is our representative in the heavenly tribunal. Thus, rather than condemnation, the heavenly judgment will bring us vindication and deliverance. (Lesson 8, 1st Quarter 2020 – Tuesday, The Court Was Seated, 2/17/2020)
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