Book of Life | Citizens in Heaven | Registered for Heaven by Rev. Nicholas Sybrowsky

 

Sermon Invocation:

Holy Father, grant us serenity to accept the things we cannot change, courage to change the things we can, and wisdom to know the difference.  Strength to live one day at a time, to enjoy one moment at a time, and to accept hardship as the pathway to peace.

Taking as, Jesus did, this sinful world as it is not as we would have it, trusting that He will make all things right as we surrender our will to him; that we may be reasonably happy in this life and supremely happy with Him in the next.  Amen.  (Note 1)

Opening Word & Reading for Worship:

There is one main question for each listener of this Sermon Series.  Is your name written in the Book of Life?  Last week’s message title was, Are You Registered for Heaven? (Link takes you to Homily 1 of series)

Series & Sermon

Series Thesis: True citizenship in heaven begins not with earthly affiliation or inherited faith—but with spiritual inscription: received through surrender, sealed by grace, and revealed in transformation.

Through the lens of God this may sound like:

“I have written your name not by merit or lineage, but by surrender to My Son.  For true citizenship in heaven begins not with your hands or heritage, but with My inscription on your soul.”

Sermon Thesis: Teamwork in reconciliation prevents erasure from the book of life.

Intro:

This Sermon Series Topic was introduced last week from within my Bible Dictionary.  Let us re-examine this introduction to: The “Book of Life,” sometimes referred to as the “Book of the Living.”  These two phrases from within the Bible are defined by the ILLUSTRATED DICTIONARY & CONCORDANCE OF THE BIBLE, as “A heavenly record which the names of the righteous are inscribed.  The exact expression appears only once in the OT, in Psalms 69:28.  Heavenly ledgers are referred or alluded to in many other passages of the OT (Is 65:6; Jer 17:13;

22:30; Mal 3:16; Ps 40:7; 87:6; 139:16; Job 13:26; Dan 7:10; 12:1; Neh 13:14), the Apocrypha and Pseudepigrapha (e.g. Jubilees 30:19-23 [ Homily 1 (H1) Cite 2]; Enoch 47:3 [H1 Cite 3]; 81:1ff [H1 Cite 4]; 97:6 [H1 Cite 5, H1 Note 5]; 98ff [H1 Cite 6]; 103:2 [H1 Cite 7]; 104:7[H1 Cite 8]; 108:3, 7 [H1 Cite 9]; I Baruch 24:1 [H1 Cite 10]), and the NT (e.g. Lk 10:20; Phil 4:3; Rev 22:19; Heb 12:23). (Note to reader: These links will take you to Blue Letter Bible app or other outside websites.  Each reference is cited in the list in Homily 1(H1).  These links & the descriptions on H1 are not part of the dictionary from my personal library but enhance your research and study, as well as my own.)

In the NT, inscription in the Book of Life comes to mean eternal salvation.  The concept (Click Hyperlink HERE to See H1 Note 13) can be traced back to Mesopotamia where it was believed that the gods possessed tablets on which were recorded the deeds and destiny of men.  One of these tablets is actually called the “Tablet of life.”  Erasure from such a register is tantamount to death (cf Ex 32:32-33; Ps 69:29).” (H1 Cite 1)

The Christian is registered in heaven because, Christians have been delivered, sanctified, and commissioned to live out and proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ.  True maturity in faith means surrendering fully to God’s will and living for His glory—this is a conviction worthy of our deepest commitment, even unto death.  The blood of Jesus is considered imputed righteousness that positionally sets us up for registry.

 

Last week we observed Ps. 87:6 which indicates that, “God writes our names in his book.”

 

Main Text/Topic

Philippians [4:3] Yes, I ask you also, true companion, help these women, who have labored side by side with me in the gospel together with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.  (ESV)

 

Let us observe this in context of the Apostolic Ministry Epistle from Paul to his church plant in Philippi.

 

 

"[1] Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved."

 

Hear Paul’s Exhortation, Encouragement, and Prayer

 

"[2] I entreat Euodia [(yoo-OH-dee-uh)]and I entreat Syntyche [(SIN-ti-kee)] to agree in the Lord.  [3] Yes, I ask you also, true companion, help these women, who have labored side by side with me in the gospel together with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.  [4] Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.  [5] Let your reasonableness be known to everyone.  The Lord is at hand; [6] do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.  [7] And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.  [8] Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.  [9] What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me--practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you."

 

Listen to Paul share about God’s Provision

"[10] I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me.  You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity.  [11] Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.  [12] I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound.  In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.  [13] I can do all things through him who strengthens me.  [14] Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble.  [15] And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only.  [16] Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again.  [17] Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit.  [18] I have received full payment, and more.  I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus [(ee-PAF-roh-DYE-tuhs)] the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God.  [19] And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.  [20] To our God and Father be glory forever and ever.  Amen."

 

Now for Paul’s Final Greetings

"[21] Greet every saint in Christ Jesus.  The brothers who are with me greet you.  [22] All the saints greet you, especially those of Caesar's household.  [23] The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit."  [Phl 4:1-23 ESV] (Verse 3 Emphasis by me) (Cite 4).

 

According to the Apostle Paul in Phil. 4:3

 

1.        The names of Christians are in the Book of Life. 

Paul writes with the purpose,

 "to thank the Philippian believers for their support of [his apostolic] ministry and to encourage them." (Cite 3, Emphasis by me)

Chapter four is the beginning of Paul's closing words and final salutations in this epistle. 

Here is a pericope outline/overview to enhance our view of the big picture of Paul's letter.

A.JOY IN THE MIDST IF CIRCUMSTANCES (1:1-30)

B. THE SECRET OF VICTORIOUS LIVING (2:1-30)

C.HAVING A VICTORIOUS FOCUS (3:1-21)

D. FINDING A JOYFUL FELLOWSHIP (4:1-23)

(Cite 3, Emphasis by me)

Paul shares a word of good repute for Euodia and Syntyche, Clement and the rest of Paul's co-workers (4:2-3).  Contemporarily we can relate this to a letter of recommendation.  Not only is this a referral of good reputation but a reproofing of Euodia & Syntyche too (Agree in the Lord 4:2) .  This reproof sounds like an echo of the Savior in his Sermon on the Mount teaching about Anger,

 "[21] "You have heard that it was said to those of old, 'You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment.' [22] But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, 'You fool!' will be liable to the hell of fire. [23] So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, [24] leave your gift there before the altar and go.  First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.  [25] Come to terms quickly with your accuser while you are going with him to court, lest your accuser hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you be put in prison.  [26] Truly, I say to you, you will never get out until you have paid the last penny. " [Mat 5:21-26 ESV] (Cite 4)

Paul himself strived to live with an example above reproach but not above reproof.  It is honorable and noble to strive for a perfect example in our behavior, but as soon as we think we have mastered permanence in perfection we will find that we are only fooling ourselves with pride & prejudice.  Practice makes permanent not perfect. 

“As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:" (Rom 3:10 KJV)

There is only one that can impute the righteousness of God upon us.  His name is Jesus Christ.

In the ninth step within the twelve steps of A.A. (originally a reflection on what the founders did that seemed to help them find success from their affliction with alcohol).  This ninth step reads as, 

“We made direct amends to such people [as those we listed in step 8,] wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.” -Alcoholic Anonymous.org (Cite 2)

Scholarly Commentary 4:1-3 Since we know with certainty what our ultimate destiny is, we can confidently face the hardships of life.  Paul set a good example for how to grow spiritually and encourage others in their growth.  To encourage these two Christian women to re-establish a harmonious relationship, he complimented them on their previous service to God.  He was assuming that they were humble enough to take criticism and change for the better.  When we keep a close watch on our own life, as Paul did, we will be better able to hold others accountable to their recovery commitment[s].  (Cite 3) (Emphasis by me)

Sermon Summary & Conclusion:

This message has unpacked the eternal significance of having one’s name inscribed in the Book of Life.  Anchored in Philippians 4:1–23, we see Paul urging unity, gratitude, spiritual perseverance, and joy—even amid hardship.  The contents have been drawn from:

·      Theological foundations of surrender, inscription, and grace

·      Practical reconciliation—calling for unity and humility within Christian fellowship.

·      Gospel maturity—living contentedly, giving sacrificially, and rejoicing freely.

·      Spiritual responsibility—helping fellow laborers and honoring the body of Christ.

The conclusion?  True citizenship in heaven doesn’t come through performance or lineage but through surrender, transformation, and reconciliation.  Registry is sealed by God’s grace.

Sermon Exhortation:

Apostasy.  May I share a few thoughts in this idea of walking away from God’s will?  In recent years, a troubling phenomenon has emerged—ceremonies of “un-baptism” or “debaptism,” often hosted by atheist or Satanist organizations, symbolizing a public renunciation of faith.  These acts, though rare, reflect a deeper spiritual rebellion and echo in the adversarial nature of apostasy: a deliberate walking away from the covenant of grace.  Such gestures are not mere satire—they are declarations of separation from the life-giving blood of Christ (Gal 6:7).

"Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap."  (Gal 6:7 ESV)

Note to readers:  For those seeking to understand the gravity and implications of these actions, explore the documented rise of “debaptism” and its cultural significance in this Wikipedia article on Debaptism.

Brothers and sisters, your name is not written with ink, but with the blood of Jesus.  The Book of Life does not log achievements—it echoes surrender.  Spur one another on in love and charitable deeds.  Practice permanent grace, not the illusion of perfection.  Let today be the day you reconcile with your brethren, partner in the gospel, and walk in the Spirit’s strength.

Sermon Altar Call to Action:

Consider these invitations for practical action:

• Reconcile with those who labor beside you.  Like Euodia and Syntyche, agree in the Lord.
• Reaffirm your gospel calling: Are you helping others find their way into the Book of Life?
• Respond to grace: Offer your life as a fragrant sacrifice, pleasing to God.
• Reflect on your own name—Is it written above because you’ve surrendered below?

Those stirred by this message may respond at the altar, by reaching out to a fellow believer, or by recommitting quietly in prayer.

Sermon Prayer & song: 

Heavenly Father, write anew upon our hearts what You've already inscribed in heaven.  Let our lives reflect Your righteousness—not our perfection, but our posture of surrender.  May we reconcile where there is division, serve where there is need, and rejoice wherever Your Spirit has taken root.  Thank You for the names written—not erased—and for the strength to live as citizens of heaven.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Service Benediction:

May you go forth as marked souls, not merely known by men but inscribed by God.  May His peace guard your heart, His Spirit guide your steps, and His joy fuel your mission.  And may your name—unchangeable, unerasable, beloved—be ever secure in the Book of Life.

Amen.

Next Week:

In our Next Message, Lord Willing We will examine the idea that Our names cannot be removed from the Book of Life according to John’s Revelation 3:5 on the island of Patmos.

 

Sources, Credits, Citations & Notes:

 

1.     NOTE.  Adaptation to The Serenity Prayer (Link leads to Wikipedia) attributed to Reinhold Niebuhr 1892—1971 (Link leads to Wikipedia) an American Theologian who wrote primarily about morality & Christianity’s refusal to confront social problems.

 🕊️ Boethius and the Serenity Prayer: A Philosophical Echo

While Reinhold Niebuhr is widely credited with composing the Serenity Prayer, some researchers have traced its conceptual roots back to Boethius, a Roman philosopher and Christian thinker from the 6th century.  The connection isn’t direct or textual, but rather thematic and philosophical.

📚 Who Was Boethius?

Lived from 480–524 A.D.

Best known for his work The Consolation of Philosophy, written while imprisoned before his execution.

Blended Stoic resilience, Christian theology, and Platonic thought.

🔗 The Connection to the Serenity Prayer

In The Consolation of Philosophy, Boethius explores how to find peace amid suffering, emphasizing:

Acceptance of fate and divine order.

Courage to pursue virtue despite adversity.

Wisdom to discern what lies within human control versus what belongs to providence.

These ideas mirror the prayer’s structure:

“God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
Courage to change the things I can,
And wisdom to know the difference.”

🧩 Historical Speculation

A German A.A. member, Peter T., suggested that the first written form of the prayer may have appeared in Boethius’s writings₁.

However, this remains unverified—no exact match of the prayer’s wording has been found in Boethius’s texts.

The connection is described as “unclear and haunting,” suggesting a philosophical lineage rather than direct authorship₁.  -Microsoft Copilot Footnote 1 Faith Seeking Understanding.org

2.     A.A. Step Nine | From within Cite 3 but available online at Alcoholics Anonymous® Click HERE PDF download available there.

3.     The Life Recovery Bible Series Outline Point 1-page A20; Purpose of letter Pg. 1519; Pericopic Outline Epistle to Philippians Pg. 1519, Scholarly Commentary 4:1-3 Pg. 1525)

4.     "Scripture quotations are from the Holy Bible, English Standard Version, copyright © 2001, 2007, 2011, 2016 by Crossway Bibles, a division of Good News Publishers.  Used by permission.  All rights reserved." In collaboration with the Blue Letter Bible.org

 

Soli Deo Gloria | “Glory to God Alone”