Ellen Chat Conversation

Ellen White describes the millennium as a period of profound investigation and revelation. During the thousand years between the first and second resurrections, the righteous participate in a judgment of the wicked. This process involves a careful examination of the records of human lives, where the deeds of those who did not follow God are compared against the standards of the Bible (TA 287). The opening of the "books" in heaven is a central theme in her description of this period. She emphasizes that every word, action, and influence is recorded day by day, and these records must eventually be met (YI May 26, 1898, par. 10). This investigative process reveals the history of individuals' works and the true nature of their practices, leading to "astonishing revelations" as the books are opened and the dead are judged according to what was written (17MR 113.5).

This millennial judgment is not for the purpose of deciding who is saved—as that is determined before the second coming—but rather to allow the redeemed to understand God's justice. The saints sit on thrones and, in union with Christ, judge the world and even evil angels (TA 287). This involves a transparent review of the "history of their works" and the specific reasons behind the final rewards and punishments (1888). The solemnity of this future review is intended to impact how people live in the present. White suggests that if individuals could truly discern the significance of these records and the upcoming judgment, it would lead to a radical change in their current behavior and preparation for the Lord's appearing (8T 28.3).

She encourages a life lived with constant reference to that great day when the books will be opened (1SAT 25).

You might also want to explore:What did Ellen White teach about the work of the righteous during the thousand years?How does the investigative judgment before the Second Coming differ from the millennial judgment?What practical counsel did she give regarding the recording of our daily influence in the books of heaven?

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