Go! And Understand What The Bible Says About Hell Series

Go! And Understand What the Bible Says About Hell

Introduction

Today, we tackle a profound and sobering topic: What does the Bible say about Hell? Hell is not an easy subject to discuss, but it is a reality that Scripture addresses clearly. Understanding this topic is essential for us as believers, not only to grasp the depth of God’s justice but also to appreciate the magnitude of His grace.

Let us approach this topic with reverence, humility, and a desire to learn what God’s Word reveals. Our main focus will be on Jesus’ teaching about Hell, the descriptions found throughout the Bible, and what this means for our lives today.

Point 1: Hell Is Real and Just

Our first point is that Hell is real and just. Let’s begin with the words of Jesus in Matthew 25:41 (NLT): “Then the King will turn to those on the left and say, ‘Away with you, you cursed ones, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his demons.’”

Here, Jesus speaks about the final judgment. He distinguishes between those who have lived for Him and those who have rejected Him. The word used for “Hell” in many New Testament passages is “Gehenna,” derived from the Valley of Hinnom, a place associated with idolatry and burning refuse. Gehenna symbolised eternal judgment.

Hell is not arbitrary; it is God’s response to sin. It reminds us of God’s holiness and justice. A.W. Tozer said, “The vague and tenuous hope that God is too kind to punish the ungodly has become a deadly opiate for the consciences of millions.” We must take sin seriously because God does.

Point 2: Hell Is Separation from God

Paul’s words in 2 Thessalonians 1:9 (NLT) remind us of a core truth about Hell: “They will be punished with eternal destruction, forever separated from the Lord and from his glorious power.”

Paul is writing to the church in Thessalonica, encouraging them to stand firm despite persecution. He describes the ultimate fate of those who reject the gospel as eternal separation from God. The word “destroyed” here does not imply annihilation but rather ruin—a loss of purpose and relationship with God.

Hell is not merely a place of fire and torment; it is the absence of God’s presence. All goodness, light, and joy come from Him. Imagine life without hope, peace, or love—that’s what separation from God entails. This understanding should stir us to share the gospel with urgency.

Point 3: Hell Was Not Meant for Humanity

Matthew 25:41, which we read earlier, says Hell was “prepared for the devil and his demons.” This tells us that God’s original intention was not for people to go to Hell.

Hell was created as a place of judgment for Satan and the fallen angels who rebelled against God (Revelation 20:10). However, when humanity chooses to reject God’s offer of salvation through Jesus, they face the same judgment.

God’s heart is for all to be saved. 2 Peter 3:9 (NLT) says, “The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent.” We should live as ambassadors of Christ, sharing His love and truth with those who are far from Him.

Point 4: Jesus Provides the Way of Escape

John 3:16 (NLT) declares: “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.”

Jesus’ mission was to save humanity from sin and its consequences. The word “perish” here points to eternal separation from God, but through faith in Jesus, we receive eternal life.

Imagine standing before a raging fire, and someone offers you a way out. That’s what Jesus has done for us. He has taken the punishment we deserve. As Rob Turner aptly said, “Trying to atone for your sin is like scooping out the ocean with a teaspoon. Which do you want to hear? ‘Get to work’ or ‘it’s already done’?” Through Jesus, it’s already done!

Let me share a story. A firefighter once risked his life to save a child trapped in a burning building. When asked why, he said, “Because I couldn’t imagine leaving them to face the fire alone.” Jesus, our Saviour, entered the fire of judgment to save us. He bore our punishment so we could live.

Conclusion: Go! And Share the Good News

As we prepare our hearts for communion, let us remember the price Jesus paid to rescue us from Hell. Let’s examine our hearts, thanking Him for His sacrifice and committing to live for Him.

Call to Action

Go! And share this good news with the world. Let us be faithful witnesses, living lives that reflect the hope we have in Christ. If you have not yet placed your faith in Jesus, today is the day to do so. Surrender your life to Him as Lord and Saviour. The gift of salvation is freely offered to you—receive it!