There seems to be an increase in activity of discussion and thought regarding the issue of Hell. In a periodical that my denomination publishes it seems that the idea of a place called Hell is alive but not very well.
At the end of one article I am asked a question by it's author. "Is it possible, through study and synthesis of the best of these views [literal, real place of punishment;a non-literal place where one experiences the absence of God; an idea of soul-annihilism] to arrive at a perspective on judgement that is scriptural, logical and praiseworthy?
I felt like saying...I'm sorry but haven't you read the Gospels? Haven't you read Ephesians, Galatians or Romans? What about Jude?
In my opinion this author has it backwards. Don't we have a mandate as Christ-followers to first search the scriptures and see what they have to offer before we turn to any "synthesis" of the best of any ideas?
As for logical, wouldn't it seem logical that if there is a place called Heaven that there would (without sounding like a dualist) be a place called Hell? We have been given the Good News about Jesus Christ, so logically, would there not be a Bad News?
And what about praiseworthy"? While I am not advocating the celebration of anyone going to Hell, can we not praise God that His holiness and righteousness is upheld by judgment? I could think of no other topic more praiseworthy than the the one which deals with my sinful condition, a most Holy God and the exercise of His Holy mercy over me rather than His Holy judgment.
Maybe I missed the point but I liked the way a pastor ended his article on this topic.
"for many years now it's been fashionable to minimize hell and scorn those who pursue salvation as a type of 'fire insurance'. One would hope that those who find Jesus as 'fire insurance' would also discover the blessings and joys of this heavenly relationship. But if the danger of hell is real, then fire insurance is prudent, and hardly to be scorned."
Again, maybe I missed the point - you tell me.
Sola Gratis
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