THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO LUKE - Chapter 10 - Verse 20

Verse 20. Rather rejoice, &c. Though it was an honour to work miracles, though it is an honour to be endowed with talents, and influence, and learning, yet it is a subject of chief joy that we are numbered among the people of God, and have a title to everlasting life.

Names are written in heaven. The names of citizens of a city or state were accustomed to be written in a book or register, from which they were blotted out when they became unworthy, or forfeited the favour of their country. Comp. Ps 69:28; Ex 32:32; De 9:14; Re 3:5.

That their names were written in heaven means that they were citizens of heaven; that they were friends of God and approved by him, and would be permitted to dwell with him. This was of far more value than all earthly honour, power, or wealth, and in this men should rejoice more than in eminent endowments of influence, learning, talents, or possessions.

{w} "your names are written" Ex 32:32; Ps 69:28; Is 4:3; Da 12:1

Php 4:3; Heb 12:23; Re 13:8; 20:12; 21:27