Sermon Transcript
Reader's Version
Reader’s Version of “Is Hell Real” Sermon by Gene SimcoSun, Sep 08, 2024 10AM • 53:36
I heard a story. About a man who died and went to Hell. So he arrives there and finds himself standing on a very long line. The line seems to stretch on endlessly, it's sweltering hot, and he begins to worry, "Oh no, is this Hell or a Florida amusement park?" It's relatable down here, you know, standing on line for what seems like an eternity in the extreme heat. As he waits, he notices a demon walking by and decides to inquire, "Excuse me, does this line actually lead anywhere? Or am I destined to wait forever?" The demon replies, "It leads somewhere. It's for the new iPhone release. The Man said, "iPhones in Hell, who would've thought!?" The demon says, "Yea, we make them here ... I keep telling them they should have made the logo more obvious!" With a sigh, he reflects, "Well, at least I'm not the only one who made poor choices in life."
And just to clarify, having an iPhone doesn't necessarily condemn you to Hell, it's all about how you use it that matters.
We’ve been looking at bad choices, sin, the rejection of God. So now we’re going to talk about the consequences for those bad choices. That is rejecting Jesus. We looked at Hebrews 10, which no one likes to do, so we're going to do it again, and we're going to continue. We saw some of those consequences right for deliberately continuing on in that life.
Hebrews 10:26 Dear friends, if we deliberately continue sinning after we have received knowledge of the truth, there is no longer any sacrifice that will cover these sins. 27 There is only the terrible expectation of God’s judgment and the raging fire that will consume his enemies. 28 For anyone who refused to obey the law of Moses was put to death without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses. 29 Just think how much worse the punishment will be for those who have trampled on the Son of God, and have treated the blood of the covenant, which made us holy, as if it were common and unholy, and have insulted and disdained the Holy Spirit who brings God’s mercy to us. 30 For we know the one who said, “I will take revenge. I will pay them back.” He also said, “The Lord will judge his own people.”
Returning to the previous chapter, we observed the consequences of rejecting Jesus, correct? Before delving into the concepts of sin and its association with hell, I want to address a prevailing myth. One such myth within Christianity is the belief that we will not face judgement, or that God will not judge us. However, as evidenced in the text, God will indeed judge His people. Let’s explore this further. This misconception that we will not be judged is widespread within Christianity. Contrary to popular belief, the emphasis of this morning's message is on the repercussions of sin and the impending judgement. While it may not be a popular topic, I aim to present it in a more lighthearted manner. It begs the question - where does this notion originate from? For those who are well-versed in the Bible, it is evident that this belief is unfounded. The discrepancy lies in the fact that many individuals fail to engage with the Scriptures in a meaningful way and instead approach it haphazardly. One such example on today’s topic is found in Matthew 7:1.
Matthew 7:1 “Do not judge others, and you will not be judged.”
But this is how people read this section of the Bible:
I heard a story. About a man who died and went to Hell. So he arrives there and finds himself standing on a very long line. The line seems to stretch on endlessly, it's sweltering hot, and he begins to worry, "Oh no, is this Hell or a Florida amusement park?" It's relatable down here, you know, standing on line for what seems like an eternity in the extreme heat. As he waits, he notices a demon walking by and decides to inquire, "Excuse me, does this line actually lead anywhere? Or am I destined to wait forever?" The demon replies, "It leads somewhere. It's for the new iPhone release. The Man said, "iPhones in Hell, who would've thought!?" The demon says, "Yea, we make them here ... I keep telling them they should have made the logo more obvious!" With a sigh, he reflects, "Well, at least I'm not the only one who made poor choices in life."
And just to clarify, having an iPhone doesn't necessarily condemn you to Hell, it's all about how you use it that matters.
We’ve been looking at bad choices, sin, the rejection of God. So now we’re going to talk about the consequences for those bad choices. That is rejecting Jesus. We looked at Hebrews 10, which no one likes to do, so we're going to do it again, and we're going to continue. We saw some of those consequences right for deliberately continuing on in that life.
Hebrews 10:26 Dear friends, if we deliberately continue sinning after we have received knowledge of the truth, there is no longer any sacrifice that will cover these sins. 27 There is only the terrible expectation of God’s judgment and the raging fire that will consume his enemies. 28 For anyone who refused to obey the law of Moses was put to death without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses. 29 Just think how much worse the punishment will be for those who have trampled on the Son of God, and have treated the blood of the covenant, which made us holy, as if it were common and unholy, and have insulted and disdained the Holy Spirit who brings God’s mercy to us. 30 For we know the one who said, “I will take revenge. I will pay them back.” He also said, “The Lord will judge his own people.”
Returning to the previous chapter, we observed the consequences of rejecting Jesus, correct? Before delving into the concepts of sin and its association with hell, I want to address a prevailing myth. One such myth within Christianity is the belief that we will not face judgement, or that God will not judge us. However, as evidenced in the text, God will indeed judge His people. Let’s explore this further. This misconception that we will not be judged is widespread within Christianity. Contrary to popular belief, the emphasis of this morning's message is on the repercussions of sin and the impending judgement. While it may not be a popular topic, I aim to present it in a more lighthearted manner. It begs the question - where does this notion originate from? For those who are well-versed in the Bible, it is evident that this belief is unfounded. The discrepancy lies in the fact that many individuals fail to engage with the Scriptures in a meaningful way and instead approach it haphazardly. One such example on today’s topic is found in Matthew 7:1.
Matthew 7:1 “Do not judge others, and you will not be judged.”
But this is how people read this section of the Bible:
That's how they read their Bibles, right? So don't judge, and you won't be judged. I'm good, right? This is like the repeat offender's favorite verse, okay? They make this deal with everybody. It seems like, "You don't judge me, I won't judge you. We're good." And then that idea extends itself out to God. Well, then God's not going to judge him either. It says you won't be judged. Did you read it? No, not the rest of it. So, if you don't know the Bible, let me explain this quickly. It's in the Sermon on the Mount, about three quarters of the way through this sermon from Matthew chapters five through seven, meant to be read in one sitting. Otherwise, it's like walking out in the middle of Jesus's sermon. Not good. He makes some points, and we've seen this at church. We did Matthew five and immediately went to Matthew six. And we saw a lot of clarification in Matthew six, just in case you misunderstood five. We looked at many things that people misunderstand here. This is another one. They'll hear this, walk out early and say, "That's good, I'm not judging, I won't be judged." And they leave church. But he's not finished. So, if we didn't walk out on him, we'd see (hear) this:
Matthew 7:15 “Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmless sheep but are really vicious wolves. 16 You can identify them by their fruit, that is, by the way they act. Can you pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? 17 A good tree produces good fruit, and a bad tree produces bad fruit. 18 A good tree can’t produce bad fruit, and a bad tree can’t produce good fruit. 19 So every tree that does not produce good fruit is chopped down and thrown into the fire. 20 Yes, just as you can identify a tree by its fruit, so you can identify people by their actions.
Jesus proceeded to describe the process of making judgments about something or someone. We do indeed make judgments, and we see the that fire, which implies something. It is clear that people can be identified by their actions, as stated by Jesus. Last time, we discussed the fruit of the Spirit and how it helps in identifying Christians. Christians can be identified by their good actions, which are in the form of the fruit of the Holy Spirit. If they lack this fruit, they may be compared to a bad tree. We had discussed the topic of blasphemy of the Holy Spirit, which may be considered the unforgivable sin. Mark provided some clarification on this topic in comparison to Matthew's version. Furthermore, Jesus addressed the accusation of having a demon and emphasized that he possessed the Holy Spirit, not a demon - if we keep reading that account, we see this:
Matthew 12:33 “A tree is identified by its fruit. If a tree is good, its fruit will be good. If a tree is bad, its fruit will be bad. 34 You brood of snakes! How could evil men like you speak what is good and right? For whatever is in your heart determines what you say. 35 A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. 36 And I tell you this, you must give an account on judgment day for every idle word you speak. 37 The words you say will either acquit you or condemn you.”
Let us proceed with caution as the judgment day approaches. It is crucial to keep in mind that a moment of judgment is imminent. Whether you are acquitted or condemned will be determined. The word "condemned" holds great significance as you will face the judge - let's remember that for later. However, those who are aligned with Jesus will find themselves acquitted. Nevertheless, this does not absolve the consequences of our actions. Our deeds hold weight and will be taken into account. This recurring theme is prevalent throughout the Bible for those who delve into its contents. Allow me to present some instances where it is explicitly stated that Christians will face judgment. For instance, in the book of Romans, the presence of God should be unmistakable in the narrative. Upon turning to the second chapter, a message is delivered to two distinct groups, starting with the Gentiles and then transitioning to the Jews. The Jews are also reminded of their transgressions, as they should practice what they preach. Within that context, we see this:
Romans 2:16 And this is the message I proclaim—that the day is coming when God, through Christ Jesus, will judge everyone’s secret life.
If we keep reading Romans:Romans 14:10 So why do you condemn another believer? Why do you look down on another believer? Remember, we will all stand before the judgment seat of God. 11 For the Scriptures say, “‘As surely as I live,’ says the Lord,” ‘every knee will bend to me, and every tongue will declare allegiance to God.’” 12 Yes, each of us will give a personal account to God.
This comes up again in Paul’s letters to the Corinthians:2 Corinthians 5:10 For we must all stand before Christ to be judged. We will each receive whatever we deserve for the good or evil we have done in this earthly body.
And if we continued reading Hebrews:Hebrews 13:4 Give honor to marriage, and remain faithful to one another in marriage. God will surely judge people who are immoral and those who commit adultery.
These are not all of them, but it should clearly convey the message to you, right? The Bible unequivocally states that Christians will face judgment. It can be a bit puzzling, and much of this confusion arises from neglecting to read Matthew seven, as well as failing to comprehend the teachings of the Gospel of John. Jesus reaches a point where he conveys, in John three, that whoever believes in him will not be judged. Many may stop at that and think, "Great, I'm good to go!" However, upon delving into chapters five, nine, and twelve, it is evident that the Son holds the authority to judge and will indeed carry out judgment. This may raise questions, but it is crucial to continue reading and grasp the context. When Jesus interacted with people in the flesh, his purpose was not to judge but to be judged (by the religious leaders) and to sacrifice himself for us. This was his role at that particular time. However, he foreshadows that upon his return, judgment will take place. It may seem contradictory, almost paradoxical, but with a clear understanding of the context and timing, these seemingly conflicting statements can coexist as true. As seen in the reading of 1 John, where at first, it seems like we are told that we will sin, but then when we simply turn the page to chapter two, it admonishes against sinning and highlights the difference between the children of the devil and the children of God based on whether they are sinning or not – kind of like the judge a tree by its fruit teaching. The same clarity emerges in Romans six, seven, and eight. The truth becomes apparent upon continued reading and examination of the topic of judgment. While it may initially appear that Jesus will not judge, a deeper understanding reveals the true message he is conveying. The fact that Jesus will come back to judge is also observed in Revelation. An example worth highlighting is found in the book of 1 Peter, where Peter addresses a community of Christians enduring severe trials and suffering, urging them to keep their focus on the ultimate goal amidst adversity.
1 Peter 1:17 And remember that the heavenly Father to whom you pray has no favorites. He will judge or reward you according to what you do. So you must live in reverent fear of him during your time here as “temporary residents.”
You may have noticed that the word reverent was crossed out. While easy to read translations are great for teaching larger groups with a wide variety of reading levels, they sometimes add innocent idioms or phrases which do not appear in the original text. This is one of them. The concept of fear is prominently featured in the text, emphasizing the importance of revering the LORD. It is essential to recognize that, as Christians, we are considered aliens or temporary residents in this world. Our true and permanent home awaits us in heaven. Obedience is a recurring theme in the text, as indicated by Peter's frequent use of the word "obey." While some may find this notion challenging, it is integral to the Christian faith.
Continuing to explore the text, one can discern a prevalent theme of suffering among Christians. It is evident that enduring hardship and trials is a fundamental aspect of the Christian journey.
1 Peter 4:17 For the time has come for judgment, and it must begin with God’s household. And if judgment begins with us, what terrible fate awaits those who have never obeyed God’s Good News? 18 And also, “If the righteous are barely saved, what will happen to godless sinners?”
There is the word obey – that is God's good news. Additionally, if the righteous are barely saved, what happens to the sinners? It all starts with us, and there are serious consequences for not obeying. This is what the Word of God proclaims. Now, to be crystal clear, on the flip side of obedience, let's look at good works. Obedience does not lead to salvation through good deeds. It is crucial to emphasize this in my message. The Bible does not teach that good deeds are the path to salvation. We cannot earn salvation through works; it is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, as stated in Ephesians 2:8. While this is true, a deeper look when we keep reading the following verses reveals that we are created anew in Christ Jesus for the purpose of doing good works that were prepared in advance for us. It is essential to delve deeper into this and consider both aspects. Our actions may reflect whether or not we are truly followers of Christ. Essentially, the fruit of our deeds reveals our true nature. If someone claims to be a good tree but produces bad fruit, they may not be as they claim to be. It is important to understand that there is a prevalent situation highlighted in the Word of God, where individuals falsely present themselves as good when they are actually not. This phenomenon is unfortunately common, even within the church community. After spending time in church, one may witness many instances of individuals claiming to be good trees while their actions indicate otherwise. Merely being a churchgoer does not alter this truth.
Let's delve deeper into this judgment and how Jesus outlines it. The key point to consider is that if we are faithful, we should live each day as though Jesus could return at any moment, even right now. This sense of urgency is stressed by Jesus repeatedly. A notable example can be found in Matthew 24, which marks the start of the Olivet Discourse. The fundamental question at hand is whether all these events will transpire, specifically referring to the end times. Unfortunately, many individuals stop reading at this point and begin speculating, despite Jesus clearly stating that only the Father knows the exact timing. The subsequent parables about readiness in Matthew 24 and 25 echo this theme and emphasize the importance of being prepared.
In Matthew 25, we encounter parables that are commonly misinterpreted for various purposes. For instance, the parable of the ten bridesmaids distinguishes between wise and unwise individuals, with only the prepared ones being commended. Similarly, the parable of the talents should not be misconstrued as simply a lesson in financial management, but rather as a call to readiness. Following these teachings, Jesus continues to stress the importance of preparedness in the parable of the sheep and goats, highlighting the imminent judgment where individuals will be separated based on their actions. It is crucial to be prepared for these impending events, as the exact timing of the Son of Man's return remains unknown. Be ready for what lies ahead, as judgment awaits those who are deemed worthy and those who fall short.
The Final JudgmentMatthew 25:31 “But when the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit upon his glorious throne. 32 All the nations will be gathered in his presence, and he will separate the people as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 He will place the sheep at his right hand and the goats at his left. 34 “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. 36 I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.’ 37 “Then these righteous ones will reply, ‘Lord, when did we ever see you hungry and feed you? Or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 Or a stranger and show you hospitality? Or naked and give you clothing? 39 When did we ever see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ 40 “And the King will say, ‘I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!’ 41 “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. 42 For I was hungry, and you didn’t feed me. I was thirsty, and you didn’t give me a drink. 43 I was a stranger, and you didn’t invite me into your home. I was naked, and you didn’t give me clothing. I was sick and in prison, and you didn’t visit me.’ 44 “Then they will reply, ‘Lord, when did we ever see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and not help you?’ 45 “And he will answer, ‘I tell you the truth, when you refused to help the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were refusing to help me.’ 46 “And they will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous will go into eternal life.”
Do you see the division here? A quick note to mention is that it is all one flock, with many goats pretending to be sheep. The Lord then makes the distinction by rejecting those who behave poorly. What you do says more about what you believe than anything you say. This is the message Jesus is conveying. There are consequences on judgment day that apply to everyone. This is clearly stated in the Bible, and Jesus consistently reinforces this teaching. Regardless of whether we identify as Christians, our actions determine whether we are sheep or goats. Sin is essentially a rejection of God. In Hebrews, the Bible clearly states that it is a rejection and disregard of Jesus's sacrifice. Hell is reserved for those who flat out deny Jesus, which is evident in the way they live their lives. In the book of Titus, Paul addresses the importance of good behavior within the church. He emphasizes the need to not only have people who call themselves Christians, but to have faithful witnesses to Jesus. The mission is to appoint elders and establish churches that demonstrate love and spread the message in a positive way. Paul warns against blaspheming the Word of God through actions that go against the gospel. This highlights the importance of living in a way that aligns with the teachings of Jesus. In the first chapter, Paul will address people who behave badly and says this:
Titus 1:16 Such people claim they know God, but they deny him by the way they live. They are detestable and disobedient, worthless for doing anything good.
Some people claim to know God, but they deny Him with their actions, a possibility that many are unaware of. Even those who profess to be Christians may deny Jesus through their behavior. The Bible affirms this truth, regardless of any arguments presented later on. It is emphasized that we are saved by grace through faith, yet our actions speak louder about our faith than mere words. Lip service is not enough. Therefore, we will be judged, but there is a distinction between judgment and condemnation. As mentioned in Matthew 12, the words we speak can either acquit or condemn us.
Turning to First Corinthians, we observe a church plagued with various socio-economic issues, leading to disunity among its members. Particularly during the Lord's Supper, the congregation faced challenges due to the presence of wealthy individuals who were accustomed to lavish feasts and excessive drinking. It seems they were neglecting to wait for their employees, possibly slaves at that time, to join them for the sacred meal. This behavior led to drunkenness among those at the gathering, including during the Lord's Supper.
The apostle Paul sternly rebuked such conduct, warning that some had even died as a result of their irreverence towards the Lord's Supper. He urged the church not to partake in the sacrament in a disrespectful manner. Paul's words serve as a reminder to approach the Lord's Supper with reverence and humility, rather than indulging in worldly ways during such a solemn occasion. Within that context, we see this:
1 Corinthians 11:31 But if we would examine ourselves, we would not be judged by God in this way. 32 Yet when we are judged by the Lord, we are being disciplined so that we will not be condemned along with the world.
As a bestselling author and renowned novelist, it is evident how Paul eloquently conveys his message, intricately
Paul delineates between judgement and condemnation here. As we reflect on his words, we are reminded to consider the entirety of God's divine counsel. This sounds like what Jesus had been teaching - your actions will acquit or condemn you. The message is resoundingly consistent, emphasizing crucial lessons that warrant our attention. The importance of continuous reading cannot be overstated as we delve deeper into the profound truths found within the book of Romans.
In our previous discussion, we delved into the profound notion that Jesus sacrificed Himself not only for the remission of sins but also to free us from the power of sin in our lives. This revelation prompted longstanding followers of Christ to revisit their Scriptures, uncovering truths that had perhaps eluded them before. Indeed, Jesus' sacrifice extends to liberating us from the clutches of sin, underscoring the significance of this dual purpose. It is within this context that we explored the themes articulated in Romans chapters six through eight.
Romans 8:1 So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. 2 And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death.
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Moving on to the next point, I could have circled and crossed following verses, but if we continue reading to the next verse, we see that belonging to Christ liberates us from the grasp of sin. Sin no longer holds power over us when we are in Him. It is crucial to persevere in reading further, as we come to understand that our actions are what will ultimately determine our judgment, and through Christ, we are set free from sin. By earnestly seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit and striving to align ourselves with His will each day, we can rejoice in the assurance of no condemnation. Conversely, those who reject Jesus will face severe consequences, either through outright denial or persistent disobedience. Should they fail to repent, they will be subject to condemnation.
The concept of hell, as described in the Bible, paints a grim picture of eternal suffering and anguish, often fire is depicted. Whether the depiction is literal or metaphorical, the unsettling imagery serves to evoke a sense of dread and horror. A closer examination of the Greek origins reveals a deeper meaning behind the word 'Hell'. In the original text, the word “Gehenna” is a reference to the Valley of Ben Hinnom, a place linked to tragic historical events involving child sacrifice during the times of Kings Ahaz and Menasseh, and sheds light on the abhorrent nature of the place Jesus refers to. Through this lens, Jesus' words on Hell convey a message of profound warning against the consequences of sin. Ultimately, the Bible portrays Hell as a realm where sinners face retribution and torment, emphasizing the severity of their actions. These are just a sampling of that Biblical description:
Mark 9:43 If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It’s better to enter eternal life with only one hand than to go into the unquenchable fires of hell with two handsMatthew 5:22 But I say, if you are even angry with someone, you are subject to judgment! If you call someone an idiot, you are in danger of being brought before the court. And if you curse someone, you are in danger of the fires of hell.Revelation 14:11 The smoke of their torment will rise forever and ever, and they will have no relief day or night, for they have worshiped the beast and his statue and have accepted the mark of his name.”
The images are meant to instill a healthy fear, reflecting what the Bible truly says about fear. It emphasizes the need to fear and work out one's salvation (see Philippians 2). In Greek, it mentions judgment and fiery hell as depicted in Revelation. It mentions Jesus's return, depicted as the Word of God on a white horse with a Judgment Sword coming out of his mouth and eyes like flames of fire to bring judgment. Moving through chapters 19 and 20, it describes the beast, false prophet, Satan, and the first resurrection of those martyred for Jesus. The prophecy in Revelation 20 describes a great white throne judgment where all are judged according to their deeds and those not in the book of life are thrown into the lake of fire.
Revelation 20:11 And I saw a great white throne and the one sitting on it. The earth and sky fled from his presence, but they found no place to hide. 12 I saw the dead, both great and small, standing before God’s throne. And the books were opened, including the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to what they had done, as recorded in the books. 13 The sea gave up its dead, and death and the grave gave up their dead. And all were judged according to their deeds. 14 Then death and the grave were thrown into the lake of fire. This lake of fire is the second death. 15 And anyone whose name was not found recorded in the Book of Life was thrown into the lake of fire.
This final judgment will be based on deeds, similar to the parable of the sheep and the goats. The new heavens and earth will replace the current corrupted world with no tears, crying, pain, or trouble caused by bad people. But for the “goats”:
Revelation 21:8 “But cowards, unbelievers, the corrupt, murderers, the immoral, those who practice witchcraft, idol worshipers, and all liars—their fate is in the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.”Revelation 21:27 Nothing evil will be allowed to enter, nor anyone who practices shameful idolatry and dishonesty—but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.
So, remember those sins that people tend to casually commit, right? They often have a flawed concept of mortal and venial sin, which isn't a biblical concept at all. We can observe what are wrongly thought of as smaller, more casual sins here, such as lying here. Ouch. The first time I read that, I was a little frightened, I must admit. As we're approaching the conclusion, it is important to note that this is the commentary on everything we have read before. Some may question what happens after death. Everyone eventually dies, but all will be resurrected at the end when Jesus returns to pass judgment.
This raises questions about a temporary realm of the dead, like Sheol, a Hebrew concept similar to Hades, where departed spirits, especially the wicked, go. Some translations, like the King James Version, consistently use "hell" instead of distinguishing between Hades/Sheol and Gehenna. These are two distinct Greek words with significant differences in meaning based on their usage. It is crucial to understand the proper distinctions between them. Jesus later tells a parable that contrasts a place of punishment for the wicked and a place of reward for the righteous, indicating a temporary nature of this realm. This can be seen in instances like the thief on the cross being promised immediate paradise, yet the ultimate new heavens have not yet been established. This notion is sometimes referred to as "Abraham's bosom" in Jewish thought, as described by Paul in Philippians 1 as going home to be with the Lord.
If we consider the concept of Sheol or Hades and the final heaven, one may wonder if there is an opportunity to pray for individuals in that realm. It is worth noting that our non-denominational church welcomes individuals from all denominations. While there may be varying beliefs on secondary doctrines, it is crucial to align with biblical truths.
Some denominations, such as Catholics, believe in the practice of praying for the dead. On the other hand, within the Protestant category, this belief is not upheld. The origins of such practices can be traced back to historical contexts, including references in ancient texts. It is interesting to note that the Christian Bible originally contained additional books, known as the apocrypha. It is important to note that these apocryphal books were present in the earliest copies of the Christian Bible and remained throughout around 1800 years of Christian history. Delving into historical records, including the King James Bible from 1611, sheds light on this fact as they were a part of that text as well and indeed remained in English versions until the mid 1800’s. The removal of these books in the mid-1800s was influenced by theological differences and interpretations within Protestant beliefs. But we find the source for this dispute within these books and some insight on the concept of praying for the dead. The instance occurs in 2 Maccabees 12, where Judas Maccabeus (Maccabees) decides to pray for some soldiers who have been killed while wearing idols. But it is not a Scriptural norm or a command from the Lord. While traditions and interpretations may vary among denominations, the absence of clear biblical mandates for certain practices should be acknowledged. So, in this account, we see where the practice of praying for the dead derives and the reason for the rejection of these books. However, it was clearly not a good conclusion on the Catholic side and may have been a knee jerk on the Protestant side – you don’t tear certain books out of the Bible because a mere human does something questionable, otherwise we might have to remove 1 and 2 Samuel! The practice of praying for the dead is not Scriptural – in fact, Jesus teaches against the practice:
Luke 16:19 Jesus said, “There was a certain rich man who was splendidly clothed in purple and fine linen and who lived each day in luxury. 20 At his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus who was covered with sores. 21 As Lazarus lay there longing for scraps from the rich man’s table, the dogs would come and lick his open sores. 22 “Finally, the poor man died and was carried by the angels to sit beside Abraham at the heavenly banquet. The rich man also died and was buried, 23 and he went to the place of the dead.[f] There, in torment, he saw Abraham in the far distance with Lazarus at his side. 24 “The rich man shouted, ‘Father Abraham, have some pity! Send Lazarus over here to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue. I am in anguish in these flames.’ 25 “But Abraham said to him, ‘Son, remember that during your lifetime you had everything you wanted, and Lazarus had nothing. So now he is here being comforted, and you are in anguish. 26 And besides, there is a great chasm separating us. No one can cross over to you from here, and no one can cross over to us from there.’ 27 “Then the rich man said, ‘Please, Father Abraham, at least send him to my father’s home. 28 For I have five brothers, and I want him to warn them so they don’t end up in this place of torment.’ 29 “But Abraham said, ‘Moses and the prophets have warned them. Your brothers can read what they wrote.’ 30 “The rich man replied, ‘No, Father Abraham! But if someone is sent to them from the dead, then they will repent of their sins and turn to God.’ 31 “But Abraham said, ‘If they won’t listen to Moses and the prophets, they won’t be persuaded even if someone rises from the dead.’”
Jesus says it right here. In one parable, he likened the rich man to goats, who didn’t care for Lazarus. The rich man did not show compassion towards Lazarus, and as a result, he was considered a goat. In the parable, when the rich man asked for someone to warn his brothers, the answer was clear - they had their chances with the Scriptures and did not heed the warnings. Jesus emphasized the finality of the situation, stating that if they did not believe in the teachings of Moses, they would not believe even if someone rose from the dead.
Many will object to the concept of hell. Would a loving God send people to hell? Addressing objections to the concept of hell, it is important to note that God's discipline is not akin to the flawed parenting of indulgent or misguided parents. Rather, God disciplines out of love and to guide us towards righteousness – see Hebrews 12. Those in hell are not there for minor sins, but for the ultimate rejection of God. It is a choice to turn away from Him, and the consequences are reflective of that choice. Ultimately, those who reject God in their earthly existence will not desire to be in His presence for eternity. This alignment with their desires is just and reasonable in the scope of eternal consequence.
So now, one might say, "Well, you know, what, a just God wouldn't do that." The same people who make this statement are often those who believe in the criminal justice system. If you were to ask them whether someone who committed multiple murders should be sent to prison, they might respond, "Yes, of course. We cannot have someone like that roaming the streets." They might even consider the death penalty as a valid option. These sentiments are expressed by individuals who also believe in the punishment of criminals. Therefore, it makes sense that a just God would hold people accountable for their actions.
Another point to consider is whether the Bible teaches that everyone should be saved. Upon examination, it is clear that this is not the case. Jesus did not teach this, as it would contradict his teachings. In John 14, Jesus makes this clear:
John 14:6 Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.
What about people who have never heard the gospel?For example, consider the man on the island scenario that is often mentioned. What about the person living on an island who has never been exposed to the gospel? It raises the question of whether it would be just to send someone who has never heard the gospel to hell. This argument is emotional, and it is also potentially dangerous when you think about it.
If God is believed to be required to save everyone who has not heard the gospel, then does that mean that the person automatically goes to heaven? Let's think about it logically. If the premise is that one should be saved just because they have not heard the gospel, then does that mean simply not hearing it is enough to guarantee entry into heaven?
In that case, should we call off the missionaries and stop spreading the gospel altogether? After all, if not hearing the gospel means salvation, then they might as well leave. In fact, Church is probably the most dangerous place a person could be! But this argument holds no ground as the urgency of sharing the gospel through missions is stressed so much in the New Testament, as is the command to attend Church and the fact that the overall context for most of the Bible after the Gospels is Church. That is precisely why it is important to go out there, make disciples, and spread the good news to everyone. If we look at first Peter, we see God’s heart for those who have not heard the Gospel and turned to Jesus:
2 Peter 3:9 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.2 Peter 3:15 And remember, our Lord’s patience gives people time to be saved. This is what our beloved brother Paul also wrote to you with the wisdom God gave him.
Did you see that key there? Repent and be saved. You have to turn from whatever it was you were doing. It’s a key element here, and it's very interesting, for your sake! So the people are probably like, ah, for their sake, right? And he says, No, for yours. So God’s heart for the lost is clear here, but we see some wording which speaks of self-reflection and is reflective of Jesus’ teachings which should draw an introspective question, “Am I a good or bad tree? Am I a sheep or a goat?” Good thing God gives us time to change!
Now, this isn't doctrine. I'm just going to kind of share something similar to a William Lane Craig argument. If you're familiar with various thinkers who propose logical ideas or intelligent arguments, you might find this one entertaining. I'm not asserting it as doctrine, just something to contemplate. It could be argued that an all-loving God would not create people whom God knew would be lost, but who would have been saved if they had only heard the gospel. However, how do we ascertain the existence of such individuals? It is reasonable to assume that many people who never hear the gospel would not have believed even if they had encountered it. Therefore, let's consider the possibility that God created the world in such a way that all the people who never hear the Gospel are precisely the ones who would have rejected it. It's intriguing to ponder, isn't it? So, even if they did hear it, they would have rejected it nevertheless. Quite thought-provoking.
People also wonder how individuals can be sent to hell without fully understanding its implications. Let's refer back to Romans 1. The fact that God's existence is evident in nature, as we discussed earlier, is quite remarkable. It is astounding to consider a world where morality does exist, where atheists will say we are simply a collection of cells with no guidance or moral compass. Yet, despite the absence of formal moral codes or religious beliefs, humans seem to have an inherent sense of morality. This natural inclination towards morality is highlighted in Romans as well. God does not condemn people to hell; rather, they choose to reject Him and ignore the obvious signs of His presence. Some may resist this truth, but the concept of hell is not meant to simply scare people into conforming to certain behaviors or beliefs. It is a reflection of the reality described in the Word of God. Viewing hell as a mere scare tactic is akin to dismissing warning labels on dangerous products such as cigarettes or driving under the influence. Just as we heed these warnings to protect ourselves, the idea of hell serves as a cautionary reminder for all people. Jesus Himself frequently spoke about hell to emphasize its significance. To deny the existence of hell is to doubt the truth of His words, painting Him as deceitful when, in reality, His message is undeniably real.
Furthermore, God does not take pleasure in the punishment of the wicked or their eternal destruction, as mentioned in 2 Peter. His love for humanity is evident in His desire to grant us time and the gift of free will. He respects our ability to choose our paths and will not force us to surrender that freedom.
It all comes down to choices, doesn't it? But you really have to consider it, don't you? Cliché. God loved the world so much, He gave us His Son! John 3:16, and it holds so much truth. He gave us something truly special. What could be better than giving His Son for us? He sacrificed his Son for us. God died for us in Jesus. And if you reject that, that's what hell is, isn't it? It's for those who reject that, those with hardened hearts.
So there's a sense of urgency, and keeping that in mind, as I conclude, there's also an encouragement. What steps should we take? What steps should be taken with this? So Christians, and I understand I shouldn't be committing sins, so I must cease doing so. Yes, agreed, cease. And we discussed that in the last message, the possibility of stopping. I compared it to individuals you are familiar with, who have been in recovery from alcoholism or drug abuse for many years. They can specifically pinpoint a sin and avoid it. Alright, Christians, you can do the same, particularly if you have the Holy Spirit within you, indicating that it should be relatively uncomplicated for us to say, "No problem" in comparison, right? Therefore, let's refrain from slandering the gospel. If we profess to be Christians and have the Holy Spirit, that surpasses any other way. So, let's strive to demonstrate that, shouldn't we? That is the objective. We should be ready at all times and be examples to the unbelieving world that Jesus dies for – at all times. Be ready!
Take some time this week to reflect on your heart. I recently created a chart comparing the fruit of the Spirit to the sin of the flesh. Consider what you are exhibiting more of in your life and if there are things that need to be purged. Pray and ask the Holy Spirit for guidance. Surrender anything that needs to be let go.
Embrace the grace! So the positive aspect of the message is, at this moment, let's focus on the other side of that. Look, if we are obedient and truly striving to walk in His ways, we are baptized and we have the Holy Spirit. This should bring us joy! If you're facing difficulties, going through tough times, take a moment to reflect on that. Things will improve, yes, we'll discuss heaven next - and that's exciting. We should find joy in that. We are privileged to be able to go to heaven. We have the opportunity to live in absolute paradise. That's amazing. Take a moment to appreciate that.Extend that grace. That's the encouragement. Extend that grace, alright, you're not going to get anybody to change by screaming and yelling at him and then exhibiting all the sin of the flesh, the outbursts of anger, and we're not even supposed to do that, right? Extend that grace, extend that patience. How patient is God towards us? Have mercy on people. See them as individuals for whom Jesus died! They may be going to hell. So just start extending that grace to people. Through the fruit of the Spirit, we get to share the gospel with people. But most importantly, start by sharing through your actions. That's really important, sharing by loving them. The reality of hell should cause us to be compassionate towards those for whom Jesus died. That's the main point.
So, for the faithful members of the flock this week, let's be ready with joyful anticipation of Jesus’ return! You should long to hear those words, "Well done, good and faithful servant."
Let me pray for you. Lord. Thank you for everyone who came to this message. I just ask that you soften hearts where they need to be softened and once again mold us into vessels of Your grace, mercy, and love, so we can save those in this dying world who so desperately need you. I ask these things in Jesus' Name. Amen.
Most Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.Scriptures in brackets reflect the original Biblical languages.
Matthew 7:15 “Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmless sheep but are really vicious wolves. 16 You can identify them by their fruit, that is, by the way they act. Can you pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? 17 A good tree produces good fruit, and a bad tree produces bad fruit. 18 A good tree can’t produce bad fruit, and a bad tree can’t produce good fruit. 19 So every tree that does not produce good fruit is chopped down and thrown into the fire. 20 Yes, just as you can identify a tree by its fruit, so you can identify people by their actions.
Jesus proceeded to describe the process of making judgments about something or someone. We do indeed make judgments, and we see the that fire, which implies something. It is clear that people can be identified by their actions, as stated by Jesus. Last time, we discussed the fruit of the Spirit and how it helps in identifying Christians. Christians can be identified by their good actions, which are in the form of the fruit of the Holy Spirit. If they lack this fruit, they may be compared to a bad tree. We had discussed the topic of blasphemy of the Holy Spirit, which may be considered the unforgivable sin. Mark provided some clarification on this topic in comparison to Matthew's version. Furthermore, Jesus addressed the accusation of having a demon and emphasized that he possessed the Holy Spirit, not a demon - if we keep reading that account, we see this:
Matthew 12:33 “A tree is identified by its fruit. If a tree is good, its fruit will be good. If a tree is bad, its fruit will be bad. 34 You brood of snakes! How could evil men like you speak what is good and right? For whatever is in your heart determines what you say. 35 A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. 36 And I tell you this, you must give an account on judgment day for every idle word you speak. 37 The words you say will either acquit you or condemn you.”
Let us proceed with caution as the judgment day approaches. It is crucial to keep in mind that a moment of judgment is imminent. Whether you are acquitted or condemned will be determined. The word "condemned" holds great significance as you will face the judge - let's remember that for later. However, those who are aligned with Jesus will find themselves acquitted. Nevertheless, this does not absolve the consequences of our actions. Our deeds hold weight and will be taken into account. This recurring theme is prevalent throughout the Bible for those who delve into its contents. Allow me to present some instances where it is explicitly stated that Christians will face judgment. For instance, in the book of Romans, the presence of God should be unmistakable in the narrative. Upon turning to the second chapter, a message is delivered to two distinct groups, starting with the Gentiles and then transitioning to the Jews. The Jews are also reminded of their transgressions, as they should practice what they preach. Within that context, we see this:
Romans 2:16 And this is the message I proclaim—that the day is coming when God, through Christ Jesus, will judge everyone’s secret life.
If we keep reading Romans:Romans 14:10 So why do you condemn another believer? Why do you look down on another believer? Remember, we will all stand before the judgment seat of God. 11 For the Scriptures say, “‘As surely as I live,’ says the Lord,” ‘every knee will bend to me, and every tongue will declare allegiance to God.’” 12 Yes, each of us will give a personal account to God.
This comes up again in Paul’s letters to the Corinthians:2 Corinthians 5:10 For we must all stand before Christ to be judged. We will each receive whatever we deserve for the good or evil we have done in this earthly body.
And if we continued reading Hebrews:Hebrews 13:4 Give honor to marriage, and remain faithful to one another in marriage. God will surely judge people who are immoral and those who commit adultery.
These are not all of them, but it should clearly convey the message to you, right? The Bible unequivocally states that Christians will face judgment. It can be a bit puzzling, and much of this confusion arises from neglecting to read Matthew seven, as well as failing to comprehend the teachings of the Gospel of John. Jesus reaches a point where he conveys, in John three, that whoever believes in him will not be judged. Many may stop at that and think, "Great, I'm good to go!" However, upon delving into chapters five, nine, and twelve, it is evident that the Son holds the authority to judge and will indeed carry out judgment. This may raise questions, but it is crucial to continue reading and grasp the context. When Jesus interacted with people in the flesh, his purpose was not to judge but to be judged (by the religious leaders) and to sacrifice himself for us. This was his role at that particular time. However, he foreshadows that upon his return, judgment will take place. It may seem contradictory, almost paradoxical, but with a clear understanding of the context and timing, these seemingly conflicting statements can coexist as true. As seen in the reading of 1 John, where at first, it seems like we are told that we will sin, but then when we simply turn the page to chapter two, it admonishes against sinning and highlights the difference between the children of the devil and the children of God based on whether they are sinning or not – kind of like the judge a tree by its fruit teaching. The same clarity emerges in Romans six, seven, and eight. The truth becomes apparent upon continued reading and examination of the topic of judgment. While it may initially appear that Jesus will not judge, a deeper understanding reveals the true message he is conveying. The fact that Jesus will come back to judge is also observed in Revelation. An example worth highlighting is found in the book of 1 Peter, where Peter addresses a community of Christians enduring severe trials and suffering, urging them to keep their focus on the ultimate goal amidst adversity.
1 Peter 1:17 And remember that the heavenly Father to whom you pray has no favorites. He will judge or reward you according to what you do. So you must live in reverent fear of him during your time here as “temporary residents.”
You may have noticed that the word reverent was crossed out. While easy to read translations are great for teaching larger groups with a wide variety of reading levels, they sometimes add innocent idioms or phrases which do not appear in the original text. This is one of them. The concept of fear is prominently featured in the text, emphasizing the importance of revering the LORD. It is essential to recognize that, as Christians, we are considered aliens or temporary residents in this world. Our true and permanent home awaits us in heaven. Obedience is a recurring theme in the text, as indicated by Peter's frequent use of the word "obey." While some may find this notion challenging, it is integral to the Christian faith.
Continuing to explore the text, one can discern a prevalent theme of suffering among Christians. It is evident that enduring hardship and trials is a fundamental aspect of the Christian journey.
1 Peter 4:17 For the time has come for judgment, and it must begin with God’s household. And if judgment begins with us, what terrible fate awaits those who have never obeyed God’s Good News? 18 And also, “If the righteous are barely saved, what will happen to godless sinners?”
There is the word obey – that is God's good news. Additionally, if the righteous are barely saved, what happens to the sinners? It all starts with us, and there are serious consequences for not obeying. This is what the Word of God proclaims. Now, to be crystal clear, on the flip side of obedience, let's look at good works. Obedience does not lead to salvation through good deeds. It is crucial to emphasize this in my message. The Bible does not teach that good deeds are the path to salvation. We cannot earn salvation through works; it is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, as stated in Ephesians 2:8. While this is true, a deeper look when we keep reading the following verses reveals that we are created anew in Christ Jesus for the purpose of doing good works that were prepared in advance for us. It is essential to delve deeper into this and consider both aspects. Our actions may reflect whether or not we are truly followers of Christ. Essentially, the fruit of our deeds reveals our true nature. If someone claims to be a good tree but produces bad fruit, they may not be as they claim to be. It is important to understand that there is a prevalent situation highlighted in the Word of God, where individuals falsely present themselves as good when they are actually not. This phenomenon is unfortunately common, even within the church community. After spending time in church, one may witness many instances of individuals claiming to be good trees while their actions indicate otherwise. Merely being a churchgoer does not alter this truth.
Let's delve deeper into this judgment and how Jesus outlines it. The key point to consider is that if we are faithful, we should live each day as though Jesus could return at any moment, even right now. This sense of urgency is stressed by Jesus repeatedly. A notable example can be found in Matthew 24, which marks the start of the Olivet Discourse. The fundamental question at hand is whether all these events will transpire, specifically referring to the end times. Unfortunately, many individuals stop reading at this point and begin speculating, despite Jesus clearly stating that only the Father knows the exact timing. The subsequent parables about readiness in Matthew 24 and 25 echo this theme and emphasize the importance of being prepared.
In Matthew 25, we encounter parables that are commonly misinterpreted for various purposes. For instance, the parable of the ten bridesmaids distinguishes between wise and unwise individuals, with only the prepared ones being commended. Similarly, the parable of the talents should not be misconstrued as simply a lesson in financial management, but rather as a call to readiness. Following these teachings, Jesus continues to stress the importance of preparedness in the parable of the sheep and goats, highlighting the imminent judgment where individuals will be separated based on their actions. It is crucial to be prepared for these impending events, as the exact timing of the Son of Man's return remains unknown. Be ready for what lies ahead, as judgment awaits those who are deemed worthy and those who fall short.
The Final JudgmentMatthew 25:31 “But when the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit upon his glorious throne. 32 All the nations will be gathered in his presence, and he will separate the people as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 He will place the sheep at his right hand and the goats at his left. 34 “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited me into your home. 36 I was naked, and you gave me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.’ 37 “Then these righteous ones will reply, ‘Lord, when did we ever see you hungry and feed you? Or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 Or a stranger and show you hospitality? Or naked and give you clothing? 39 When did we ever see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ 40 “And the King will say, ‘I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!’ 41 “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. 42 For I was hungry, and you didn’t feed me. I was thirsty, and you didn’t give me a drink. 43 I was a stranger, and you didn’t invite me into your home. I was naked, and you didn’t give me clothing. I was sick and in prison, and you didn’t visit me.’ 44 “Then they will reply, ‘Lord, when did we ever see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and not help you?’ 45 “And he will answer, ‘I tell you the truth, when you refused to help the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were refusing to help me.’ 46 “And they will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous will go into eternal life.”
Do you see the division here? A quick note to mention is that it is all one flock, with many goats pretending to be sheep. The Lord then makes the distinction by rejecting those who behave poorly. What you do says more about what you believe than anything you say. This is the message Jesus is conveying. There are consequences on judgment day that apply to everyone. This is clearly stated in the Bible, and Jesus consistently reinforces this teaching. Regardless of whether we identify as Christians, our actions determine whether we are sheep or goats. Sin is essentially a rejection of God. In Hebrews, the Bible clearly states that it is a rejection and disregard of Jesus's sacrifice. Hell is reserved for those who flat out deny Jesus, which is evident in the way they live their lives. In the book of Titus, Paul addresses the importance of good behavior within the church. He emphasizes the need to not only have people who call themselves Christians, but to have faithful witnesses to Jesus. The mission is to appoint elders and establish churches that demonstrate love and spread the message in a positive way. Paul warns against blaspheming the Word of God through actions that go against the gospel. This highlights the importance of living in a way that aligns with the teachings of Jesus. In the first chapter, Paul will address people who behave badly and says this:
Titus 1:16 Such people claim they know God, but they deny him by the way they live. They are detestable and disobedient, worthless for doing anything good.
Some people claim to know God, but they deny Him with their actions, a possibility that many are unaware of. Even those who profess to be Christians may deny Jesus through their behavior. The Bible affirms this truth, regardless of any arguments presented later on. It is emphasized that we are saved by grace through faith, yet our actions speak louder about our faith than mere words. Lip service is not enough. Therefore, we will be judged, but there is a distinction between judgment and condemnation. As mentioned in Matthew 12, the words we speak can either acquit or condemn us.
Turning to First Corinthians, we observe a church plagued with various socio-economic issues, leading to disunity among its members. Particularly during the Lord's Supper, the congregation faced challenges due to the presence of wealthy individuals who were accustomed to lavish feasts and excessive drinking. It seems they were neglecting to wait for their employees, possibly slaves at that time, to join them for the sacred meal. This behavior led to drunkenness among those at the gathering, including during the Lord's Supper.
The apostle Paul sternly rebuked such conduct, warning that some had even died as a result of their irreverence towards the Lord's Supper. He urged the church not to partake in the sacrament in a disrespectful manner. Paul's words serve as a reminder to approach the Lord's Supper with reverence and humility, rather than indulging in worldly ways during such a solemn occasion. Within that context, we see this:
1 Corinthians 11:31 But if we would examine ourselves, we would not be judged by God in this way. 32 Yet when we are judged by the Lord, we are being disciplined so that we will not be condemned along with the world.
As a bestselling author and renowned novelist, it is evident how Paul eloquently conveys his message, intricately
Paul delineates between judgement and condemnation here. As we reflect on his words, we are reminded to consider the entirety of God's divine counsel. This sounds like what Jesus had been teaching - your actions will acquit or condemn you. The message is resoundingly consistent, emphasizing crucial lessons that warrant our attention. The importance of continuous reading cannot be overstated as we delve deeper into the profound truths found within the book of Romans.
In our previous discussion, we delved into the profound notion that Jesus sacrificed Himself not only for the remission of sins but also to free us from the power of sin in our lives. This revelation prompted longstanding followers of Christ to revisit their Scriptures, uncovering truths that had perhaps eluded them before. Indeed, Jesus' sacrifice extends to liberating us from the clutches of sin, underscoring the significance of this dual purpose. It is within this context that we explored the themes articulated in Romans chapters six through eight.
Romans 8:1 So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. 2 And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death.
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Moving on to the next point, I could have circled and crossed following verses, but if we continue reading to the next verse, we see that belonging to Christ liberates us from the grasp of sin. Sin no longer holds power over us when we are in Him. It is crucial to persevere in reading further, as we come to understand that our actions are what will ultimately determine our judgment, and through Christ, we are set free from sin. By earnestly seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit and striving to align ourselves with His will each day, we can rejoice in the assurance of no condemnation. Conversely, those who reject Jesus will face severe consequences, either through outright denial or persistent disobedience. Should they fail to repent, they will be subject to condemnation.
The concept of hell, as described in the Bible, paints a grim picture of eternal suffering and anguish, often fire is depicted. Whether the depiction is literal or metaphorical, the unsettling imagery serves to evoke a sense of dread and horror. A closer examination of the Greek origins reveals a deeper meaning behind the word 'Hell'. In the original text, the word “Gehenna” is a reference to the Valley of Ben Hinnom, a place linked to tragic historical events involving child sacrifice during the times of Kings Ahaz and Menasseh, and sheds light on the abhorrent nature of the place Jesus refers to. Through this lens, Jesus' words on Hell convey a message of profound warning against the consequences of sin. Ultimately, the Bible portrays Hell as a realm where sinners face retribution and torment, emphasizing the severity of their actions. These are just a sampling of that Biblical description:
Mark 9:43 If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It’s better to enter eternal life with only one hand than to go into the unquenchable fires of hell with two handsMatthew 5:22 But I say, if you are even angry with someone, you are subject to judgment! If you call someone an idiot, you are in danger of being brought before the court. And if you curse someone, you are in danger of the fires of hell.Revelation 14:11 The smoke of their torment will rise forever and ever, and they will have no relief day or night, for they have worshiped the beast and his statue and have accepted the mark of his name.”
The images are meant to instill a healthy fear, reflecting what the Bible truly says about fear. It emphasizes the need to fear and work out one's salvation (see Philippians 2). In Greek, it mentions judgment and fiery hell as depicted in Revelation. It mentions Jesus's return, depicted as the Word of God on a white horse with a Judgment Sword coming out of his mouth and eyes like flames of fire to bring judgment. Moving through chapters 19 and 20, it describes the beast, false prophet, Satan, and the first resurrection of those martyred for Jesus. The prophecy in Revelation 20 describes a great white throne judgment where all are judged according to their deeds and those not in the book of life are thrown into the lake of fire.
Revelation 20:11 And I saw a great white throne and the one sitting on it. The earth and sky fled from his presence, but they found no place to hide. 12 I saw the dead, both great and small, standing before God’s throne. And the books were opened, including the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to what they had done, as recorded in the books. 13 The sea gave up its dead, and death and the grave gave up their dead. And all were judged according to their deeds. 14 Then death and the grave were thrown into the lake of fire. This lake of fire is the second death. 15 And anyone whose name was not found recorded in the Book of Life was thrown into the lake of fire.
This final judgment will be based on deeds, similar to the parable of the sheep and the goats. The new heavens and earth will replace the current corrupted world with no tears, crying, pain, or trouble caused by bad people. But for the “goats”:
Revelation 21:8 “But cowards, unbelievers, the corrupt, murderers, the immoral, those who practice witchcraft, idol worshipers, and all liars—their fate is in the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.”Revelation 21:27 Nothing evil will be allowed to enter, nor anyone who practices shameful idolatry and dishonesty—but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.
So, remember those sins that people tend to casually commit, right? They often have a flawed concept of mortal and venial sin, which isn't a biblical concept at all. We can observe what are wrongly thought of as smaller, more casual sins here, such as lying here. Ouch. The first time I read that, I was a little frightened, I must admit. As we're approaching the conclusion, it is important to note that this is the commentary on everything we have read before. Some may question what happens after death. Everyone eventually dies, but all will be resurrected at the end when Jesus returns to pass judgment.
This raises questions about a temporary realm of the dead, like Sheol, a Hebrew concept similar to Hades, where departed spirits, especially the wicked, go. Some translations, like the King James Version, consistently use "hell" instead of distinguishing between Hades/Sheol and Gehenna. These are two distinct Greek words with significant differences in meaning based on their usage. It is crucial to understand the proper distinctions between them. Jesus later tells a parable that contrasts a place of punishment for the wicked and a place of reward for the righteous, indicating a temporary nature of this realm. This can be seen in instances like the thief on the cross being promised immediate paradise, yet the ultimate new heavens have not yet been established. This notion is sometimes referred to as "Abraham's bosom" in Jewish thought, as described by Paul in Philippians 1 as going home to be with the Lord.
If we consider the concept of Sheol or Hades and the final heaven, one may wonder if there is an opportunity to pray for individuals in that realm. It is worth noting that our non-denominational church welcomes individuals from all denominations. While there may be varying beliefs on secondary doctrines, it is crucial to align with biblical truths.
Some denominations, such as Catholics, believe in the practice of praying for the dead. On the other hand, within the Protestant category, this belief is not upheld. The origins of such practices can be traced back to historical contexts, including references in ancient texts. It is interesting to note that the Christian Bible originally contained additional books, known as the apocrypha. It is important to note that these apocryphal books were present in the earliest copies of the Christian Bible and remained throughout around 1800 years of Christian history. Delving into historical records, including the King James Bible from 1611, sheds light on this fact as they were a part of that text as well and indeed remained in English versions until the mid 1800’s. The removal of these books in the mid-1800s was influenced by theological differences and interpretations within Protestant beliefs. But we find the source for this dispute within these books and some insight on the concept of praying for the dead. The instance occurs in 2 Maccabees 12, where Judas Maccabeus (Maccabees) decides to pray for some soldiers who have been killed while wearing idols. But it is not a Scriptural norm or a command from the Lord. While traditions and interpretations may vary among denominations, the absence of clear biblical mandates for certain practices should be acknowledged. So, in this account, we see where the practice of praying for the dead derives and the reason for the rejection of these books. However, it was clearly not a good conclusion on the Catholic side and may have been a knee jerk on the Protestant side – you don’t tear certain books out of the Bible because a mere human does something questionable, otherwise we might have to remove 1 and 2 Samuel! The practice of praying for the dead is not Scriptural – in fact, Jesus teaches against the practice:
Luke 16:19 Jesus said, “There was a certain rich man who was splendidly clothed in purple and fine linen and who lived each day in luxury. 20 At his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus who was covered with sores. 21 As Lazarus lay there longing for scraps from the rich man’s table, the dogs would come and lick his open sores. 22 “Finally, the poor man died and was carried by the angels to sit beside Abraham at the heavenly banquet. The rich man also died and was buried, 23 and he went to the place of the dead.[f] There, in torment, he saw Abraham in the far distance with Lazarus at his side. 24 “The rich man shouted, ‘Father Abraham, have some pity! Send Lazarus over here to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue. I am in anguish in these flames.’ 25 “But Abraham said to him, ‘Son, remember that during your lifetime you had everything you wanted, and Lazarus had nothing. So now he is here being comforted, and you are in anguish. 26 And besides, there is a great chasm separating us. No one can cross over to you from here, and no one can cross over to us from there.’ 27 “Then the rich man said, ‘Please, Father Abraham, at least send him to my father’s home. 28 For I have five brothers, and I want him to warn them so they don’t end up in this place of torment.’ 29 “But Abraham said, ‘Moses and the prophets have warned them. Your brothers can read what they wrote.’ 30 “The rich man replied, ‘No, Father Abraham! But if someone is sent to them from the dead, then they will repent of their sins and turn to God.’ 31 “But Abraham said, ‘If they won’t listen to Moses and the prophets, they won’t be persuaded even if someone rises from the dead.’”
Jesus says it right here. In one parable, he likened the rich man to goats, who didn’t care for Lazarus. The rich man did not show compassion towards Lazarus, and as a result, he was considered a goat. In the parable, when the rich man asked for someone to warn his brothers, the answer was clear - they had their chances with the Scriptures and did not heed the warnings. Jesus emphasized the finality of the situation, stating that if they did not believe in the teachings of Moses, they would not believe even if someone rose from the dead.
Many will object to the concept of hell. Would a loving God send people to hell? Addressing objections to the concept of hell, it is important to note that God's discipline is not akin to the flawed parenting of indulgent or misguided parents. Rather, God disciplines out of love and to guide us towards righteousness – see Hebrews 12. Those in hell are not there for minor sins, but for the ultimate rejection of God. It is a choice to turn away from Him, and the consequences are reflective of that choice. Ultimately, those who reject God in their earthly existence will not desire to be in His presence for eternity. This alignment with their desires is just and reasonable in the scope of eternal consequence.
So now, one might say, "Well, you know, what, a just God wouldn't do that." The same people who make this statement are often those who believe in the criminal justice system. If you were to ask them whether someone who committed multiple murders should be sent to prison, they might respond, "Yes, of course. We cannot have someone like that roaming the streets." They might even consider the death penalty as a valid option. These sentiments are expressed by individuals who also believe in the punishment of criminals. Therefore, it makes sense that a just God would hold people accountable for their actions.
Another point to consider is whether the Bible teaches that everyone should be saved. Upon examination, it is clear that this is not the case. Jesus did not teach this, as it would contradict his teachings. In John 14, Jesus makes this clear:
John 14:6 Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.
What about people who have never heard the gospel?For example, consider the man on the island scenario that is often mentioned. What about the person living on an island who has never been exposed to the gospel? It raises the question of whether it would be just to send someone who has never heard the gospel to hell. This argument is emotional, and it is also potentially dangerous when you think about it.
If God is believed to be required to save everyone who has not heard the gospel, then does that mean that the person automatically goes to heaven? Let's think about it logically. If the premise is that one should be saved just because they have not heard the gospel, then does that mean simply not hearing it is enough to guarantee entry into heaven?
In that case, should we call off the missionaries and stop spreading the gospel altogether? After all, if not hearing the gospel means salvation, then they might as well leave. In fact, Church is probably the most dangerous place a person could be! But this argument holds no ground as the urgency of sharing the gospel through missions is stressed so much in the New Testament, as is the command to attend Church and the fact that the overall context for most of the Bible after the Gospels is Church. That is precisely why it is important to go out there, make disciples, and spread the good news to everyone. If we look at first Peter, we see God’s heart for those who have not heard the Gospel and turned to Jesus:
2 Peter 3:9 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.2 Peter 3:15 And remember, our Lord’s patience gives people time to be saved. This is what our beloved brother Paul also wrote to you with the wisdom God gave him.
Did you see that key there? Repent and be saved. You have to turn from whatever it was you were doing. It’s a key element here, and it's very interesting, for your sake! So the people are probably like, ah, for their sake, right? And he says, No, for yours. So God’s heart for the lost is clear here, but we see some wording which speaks of self-reflection and is reflective of Jesus’ teachings which should draw an introspective question, “Am I a good or bad tree? Am I a sheep or a goat?” Good thing God gives us time to change!
Now, this isn't doctrine. I'm just going to kind of share something similar to a William Lane Craig argument. If you're familiar with various thinkers who propose logical ideas or intelligent arguments, you might find this one entertaining. I'm not asserting it as doctrine, just something to contemplate. It could be argued that an all-loving God would not create people whom God knew would be lost, but who would have been saved if they had only heard the gospel. However, how do we ascertain the existence of such individuals? It is reasonable to assume that many people who never hear the gospel would not have believed even if they had encountered it. Therefore, let's consider the possibility that God created the world in such a way that all the people who never hear the Gospel are precisely the ones who would have rejected it. It's intriguing to ponder, isn't it? So, even if they did hear it, they would have rejected it nevertheless. Quite thought-provoking.
People also wonder how individuals can be sent to hell without fully understanding its implications. Let's refer back to Romans 1. The fact that God's existence is evident in nature, as we discussed earlier, is quite remarkable. It is astounding to consider a world where morality does exist, where atheists will say we are simply a collection of cells with no guidance or moral compass. Yet, despite the absence of formal moral codes or religious beliefs, humans seem to have an inherent sense of morality. This natural inclination towards morality is highlighted in Romans as well. God does not condemn people to hell; rather, they choose to reject Him and ignore the obvious signs of His presence. Some may resist this truth, but the concept of hell is not meant to simply scare people into conforming to certain behaviors or beliefs. It is a reflection of the reality described in the Word of God. Viewing hell as a mere scare tactic is akin to dismissing warning labels on dangerous products such as cigarettes or driving under the influence. Just as we heed these warnings to protect ourselves, the idea of hell serves as a cautionary reminder for all people. Jesus Himself frequently spoke about hell to emphasize its significance. To deny the existence of hell is to doubt the truth of His words, painting Him as deceitful when, in reality, His message is undeniably real.
Furthermore, God does not take pleasure in the punishment of the wicked or their eternal destruction, as mentioned in 2 Peter. His love for humanity is evident in His desire to grant us time and the gift of free will. He respects our ability to choose our paths and will not force us to surrender that freedom.
It all comes down to choices, doesn't it? But you really have to consider it, don't you? Cliché. God loved the world so much, He gave us His Son! John 3:16, and it holds so much truth. He gave us something truly special. What could be better than giving His Son for us? He sacrificed his Son for us. God died for us in Jesus. And if you reject that, that's what hell is, isn't it? It's for those who reject that, those with hardened hearts.
So there's a sense of urgency, and keeping that in mind, as I conclude, there's also an encouragement. What steps should we take? What steps should be taken with this? So Christians, and I understand I shouldn't be committing sins, so I must cease doing so. Yes, agreed, cease. And we discussed that in the last message, the possibility of stopping. I compared it to individuals you are familiar with, who have been in recovery from alcoholism or drug abuse for many years. They can specifically pinpoint a sin and avoid it. Alright, Christians, you can do the same, particularly if you have the Holy Spirit within you, indicating that it should be relatively uncomplicated for us to say, "No problem" in comparison, right? Therefore, let's refrain from slandering the gospel. If we profess to be Christians and have the Holy Spirit, that surpasses any other way. So, let's strive to demonstrate that, shouldn't we? That is the objective. We should be ready at all times and be examples to the unbelieving world that Jesus dies for – at all times. Be ready!
Take some time this week to reflect on your heart. I recently created a chart comparing the fruit of the Spirit to the sin of the flesh. Consider what you are exhibiting more of in your life and if there are things that need to be purged. Pray and ask the Holy Spirit for guidance. Surrender anything that needs to be let go.
Embrace the grace! So the positive aspect of the message is, at this moment, let's focus on the other side of that. Look, if we are obedient and truly striving to walk in His ways, we are baptized and we have the Holy Spirit. This should bring us joy! If you're facing difficulties, going through tough times, take a moment to reflect on that. Things will improve, yes, we'll discuss heaven next - and that's exciting. We should find joy in that. We are privileged to be able to go to heaven. We have the opportunity to live in absolute paradise. That's amazing. Take a moment to appreciate that.Extend that grace. That's the encouragement. Extend that grace, alright, you're not going to get anybody to change by screaming and yelling at him and then exhibiting all the sin of the flesh, the outbursts of anger, and we're not even supposed to do that, right? Extend that grace, extend that patience. How patient is God towards us? Have mercy on people. See them as individuals for whom Jesus died! They may be going to hell. So just start extending that grace to people. Through the fruit of the Spirit, we get to share the gospel with people. But most importantly, start by sharing through your actions. That's really important, sharing by loving them. The reality of hell should cause us to be compassionate towards those for whom Jesus died. That's the main point.
So, for the faithful members of the flock this week, let's be ready with joyful anticipation of Jesus’ return! You should long to hear those words, "Well done, good and faithful servant."
Let me pray for you. Lord. Thank you for everyone who came to this message. I just ask that you soften hearts where they need to be softened and once again mold us into vessels of Your grace, mercy, and love, so we can save those in this dying world who so desperately need you. I ask these things in Jesus' Name. Amen.
Most Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.Scriptures in brackets reflect the original Biblical languages.