Systematic Theology, by Louis Berkhof - New Leaven

God, Mal. 3:16. It is a figurative description which is added to complete the idea of the
judgment. A judge usually has the book of the law and the record of those who appear
before him. In all probability the figure in this case simply refers to the omniscience of
God. Some speak of the book of God’s Word as the statute book, and of the book of
remembrance as the book of predestination, God’s private record. But it is very doubtful
whether we should particularize in that fashion.
2. THE SENTENTIAE PROMULGATIO. There will be promulgation of the sentence. The
day of judgment is the day of wrath, and of the revelation of the righteous judgment of
God, Rom. 2:5. All must be revealed before the tribunal of the supreme Judge, II Cor.
5:10. The sense of justice demands this. The sentence pronounced upon each person will
not be secret, will not be known to that person only, but will be publicly proclaimed, so
that at least those in any way concerned will know. Thus the righteousness and grace of
God will shine out in all their splendor.
3. THE SENTENTIAE EXECUTIO. The sentence of the righteous will convey everlasting
blessedness, and that of the wicked everlasting misery. The Judge will divide mankind
into two parts, as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats, Matt. 25:32 ff. In view
of what will be said of their final state in the following chapter, nothing more need be
added here.
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