Where the Books of Record Are Kept in the Heavenly Sanctuary

The books of record are kept within the heavenly sanctuary where the investigative judgment and the closing work of Christ’s mediation take place Daniel 7:9-10SYNPT 35.1.

The Location of the Records

The heavenly sanctuary is the center of Christ's work for humanity and houses the records that determine the decisions of the judgmentGC 480.2+1. While different phases of ministry occur in both apartments, the specific scene involving the opening of the books and the investigation of character is centered in the inner apartment, also known as the most holy placeEVRR366+1.

• The First Apartment: In the first apartment, or holy place, seven lamps of fire burn before the throne, and the golden altar of incense stands before the veil Revelation 4:5+1OFH1 159.1. This was the scene of Christ's general mediation for eighteen centuriesCIHS 146.2.

• The Most Holy Place: In 1844, the temple of God was opened in heaven, disclosing the ark of His testament within the most holy place Revelation 11:19EVRR366+1. It is here, before the Ancient of Days, that the judgment is set and the books are opened Daniel 7:9-10EVRR366+1.

The Purpose of the Heavenly Books

The presence of these records in the sanctuary is essential for the process of the investigative judgment, which determines who is worthy of the kingdom of GodCIHS 112.1+1.

• Examination of Every Case: The records contain a faithful chronicle of every deed, every selfish act, and every secret sinChS 45.2+1.

• Deciding Destiny: An examination of these books is required to determine who has truly repented and is entitled to the benefits of Christ's atonementGC 421.3+1.

• Blotting Out Sins: As the cases are decided, the sins of the faithful are blotted out from the records, effectively cleansing the heavenly sanctuary from the record of sin Acts 3:19BDOC 20.39+1.

Types of Records Kept

There are several specific books or registers mentioned that play a role in this solemn work within the sanctuary:

• The Book of Life: This contains the names of all who have ever entered the service of God Philippians 4:3GC 480.2+1.

• The Book of Remembrance: This book records every word, every act of faith, and even the tears of repentance shed by the faithful Malachi 3:16+1SSP 333.3.

• The Ledger of Heaven: Also referred to as the books of record, this register captures every unfulfilled duty, every wrong word, and even the secret intents of the heart Ecclesiastes 12:14ChS 45.2+2.

Understanding this work helps us appreciate the position and ministry of our great High Priest as He concludes His service for the human raceEv 221.3+1. 🌟