Books were opened, including the Book of Life. The dead were judged on the basis of what they had done, as recorded in the books.
Revelation 20:12
Words: Benjamin Beddome (1717–1795). Published posthumously in Hymns Adapted to Public Worship (London: Burton & Briggs, 1818), number 790. The Day of Account.
Music: Windsor Christopher Tye, 1533. Arranged in the Booke of Musicke, by William Daman, 1591 (🔊 pdf nwc).
Alternate Tunes:
If you know where to get a good picture of Beddome or Tye (head & shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels),
He comes, He comes! the Son of God
Descends from yonder sky;
Bright clouds compose His lofty seat,
And round Him angels fly.
Millions of millions trembling stand
Before His awful throne,
Summoned a strict account to give,
Of works which they have done.
Oh then may all my fears subside,
My sins and sorrows end,
And in the Judge may I behold
My Savior and my friend.