When studying biblical realities we haven't seen with the naked eye, it's good to ask whether the writer of Scripture is expressing his divinely inspired thoughts literally or figuratively. For example, is the "arm of the LORD" a muscle-bound appendage of God's, or an anthropomorphism -- an expression of God in human terms (Isa. 53:1)? And is the book of life an actual scroll-and-pen publication, or a way to explain God's unrestricted knowledge of people and events (Ps. 69:28)?

Before Satan is cast into the lake of fire to be tormented night and day forever, he's imprisoned in a place Scripture calls "the abyss." The Greek word abyssos, rendered "abyss," "pit," or "bottomless pit" in many English translations, occurs nine times in the New Testament. But what does it mean?

There's no question that, in Scripture, the book of life is depicted as God's book. At the same time, three references in Revelation connect the book of life with Jesus. Yes, the book of life is God's book. It's also the Lamb's book of life.

In this month's guest column, Ed Croteau writes, "Who is the 'True Israel?' Covenant Theology claims the Church has replaced Israel. But the Bible teaches that 'True Israel' is none other than Jesus Christ!"

Throughout the book of Revelation, John tells us the book of life is the Lamb's book. While the three persons of the Trinity work collaboratively to secure our redemption, it is Jesus who shares our humanity, satisfies the wrath of the Father on our behalf, proves his messianic claims under the power of the Spirit, suffers and dies as our Passover Lamb, and rises from the dead to conquer Satan, sin, and death for us.

Southern Baptists realize the limitations of their own local-church resources and understand that joining hands with other like-minded churches enables them accomplish more together than they ever could alone. Article XIV of The Baptist Faith & Message addresses this Southern Baptist distinctive.

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.

The Book of Life: What the Bible Says About God's Registry of the Redeemed addresses key questions about this fascinating book: What is the book of life? Why does it exist? Whose names are written there? Once entered, can names be erased? And how can I know if my name is recorded there? Written for pastors and laypersons alike, this resource is designed for personal or group study.