Translation
The one who prevails will be clothed in white, and I absolutely will not
Go to footnote numberblot his name from the book of life,
Go to footnote numberand I will endorse his reputation
Go to footnote numberbefore my Father and before His angels.
Paraphrase
The one who prevails will gain a reputation of purity, and I
absolutely will not blot his name from the book of life, and I will endorse his reputation before my Father and before His angels.
Footnotes
1
The Greek uses a double negative here also, therefore I have attempted to convey the negative in English with as much power as possible.
2
“The book of Life” may be a reference to the way people of ancient times kept registries of those who had been born and those who died in their cities or in their family lines. They also kept lists of the men who joined the ranks of the army and those who died in military service. Prior to this it was said that some of the people in Sardis appeared to be alive but were actually dead because of their sinful deeds. However, those who have not contaminated their lives with sinful living and who have remained faithful to Jesus, will have eternal life that no one can take away.
3: “Endorse his reputation”
Jesus will be the judge and He will judge the nations. When someone who is pure in heart presents himself before Jesus, He will proclaim his reward publicly, confirming that this one is worthy of remaining forever on the list of the living, the book of life.