The Bible mentions dozens of books, from the book of the law to the book of the Lord's wars to the chronicles of David. But perhaps the most fascinating book revealed in Scripture is the one that may, or may not, feature your name: the book of life.

Satan may rule a kingdom of evil spirits and rebellious people today. He may even prowl the earth like a ravenous lion. But he lays no claim to hell. And despite common beliefs that the evil one welcomes willing sinners into a never-ending fraternity kegger beyond the grave, hell is the final stop on Satan's long descent into ruin.

The book of life is God's registry of the redeemed. It's the official roster of citizens in the kingdom of God, the final checklist of those who inhabit the new heavens and the new earth. One theological resource calls the book of life "the balance book of God." But it's not quite that simple.

In this month's guest column, Ed Croteau writes, "So many people have chosen to attack Israel as the nation wages war against Hamas. Many prominent social media influencers claim America should not view Israel as special. Further, they say the Bible claims the Church has replaced Israel and thus inherits all of God's covenant promises to the nation.

"But, who or what is 'True Israel?' Covenant Theology claims the Church has replaced Israel. But the Bible teaches that 'True Israel' is none other than Jesus Christ!"

Jewish apocalyptic writings conceive of God keeping at least two books: a book of life for the righteous, and a book of death for the wicked. To have one's name blotted out of the book of life means complete condemnation. These writings further indicate that Michael the archangel is the keeper of the books. But how do these writings align with Scripture?

According to Article XI of The Baptist Faith & Message, "It is the duty and privilege of every follower of Christ and of every church of the Lord Jesus Christ to endeavor to make disciples of all nations. The new birth of man's spirit by God's Holy Spirit means the birth of love for others.... It is the duty of every child of God to seek constantly to win the lost to Christ by verbal witness undergirded by a Christian lifestyle, and by other methods in harmony with the gospel of Christ."

When Southern Baptists gathered in Memphis in 1925 for their annual meeting, they made two historic decisions. First, they established the Cooperative Program, the SBC's funding mechanism for missions at home and abroad. And, they affirmed a new statement of faith called The Baptist Faith & Message. Both CP and the BF&M celebrate their 100th anniversaries this year. Missouri Baptists, through High Street Press, have created a guide for personal or group study for the BF&M.

What Every Christian Should Know about Satan explores more than a dozen biblical names and titles that reveal the evil one's character, tactics, and ultimate destiny in hell. Written for pastors and laypersons alike, this resource is designed for personal or group study.