Faith
The Urgent Truth of Hell as Taught by Jesus Himself
Many Christians today derive their understanding of Hell more from classic literature and popular culture than from the Holy Scriptures. While the chilling realms depicted in Dante’s Inferno or the charismatic devil of Disney’s Hercules might capture the imagination, they do not offer a biblically accurate portrayal of Hell.
The term “Hell” itself originates not from Scripture but from an old Germanic word describing “the underworld.” In the Bible, the concept varies: the Old Testament refers to Sheol, a term whose meaning spans from punishment to simply being distant from God’s presence. This indicates that while the afterlife was recognized, it was not deeply elaborated upon by the ancient Israelites.
In the New Testament, the narrative becomes clearer, particularly in the Book of Revelation which vividly describes eternal torment for those who stray from God’s path. Verses like Revelation 14 and Revelation 20 speak of a “lake of fire” and “fire and sulfur,” emphasizing an eternity of suffering for the wicked.
Surprisingly, it is Jesus Christ who speaks most frequently and explicitly about Hell. His teachings are direct and severe, highlighting Hell as a real and dreadful place. For instance, Matthew 5:22 warns of the “hell of fire” for those who harbor anger against their brethren, and Matthew 10:28 advises to fear God, who can “destroy both soul and body in hell.”
These scriptures are clear: Hell is a definitive reality, and its existence was of significant importance to Jesus. He did not shy away from discussing its harsh truths, teaching that actions have eternal consequences. This contradicts the often sanitized image of Jesus prevalent in modern American culture, which prefers to view Him solely as a figure of love and peace.
This misconception overlooks the essential truth of the Gospel as articulated nearly a century ago by theologian H. Richard Niebuhr, who criticized the diluted Christian message that omits the necessity of God’s judgment and the reality of sin and its consequences. Hell, therefore, is not a mere tool of fear or a myth created by the Church; it is a cornerstone of divine justice. It promises that no wrong, no matter how obscured or protected, will go unpunished—be it in this life through the sacrifice of Christ on the Cross or in the eternal life to come.
For victims of injustice and oppression, the doctrine of Hell serves not as a cause for fear but as a beacon of hope. It affirms God’s unwavering commitment to justice—that every act of sin against His creation will ultimately be addressed. In a world rife with sin and evil, the truth of Hell underscores the profound seriousness with which God approaches sin and the redemption He offers to those who choose His path. Through this understanding, we grasp the full measure of God’s love and justice, reassuring us that ultimately, “everything sad will come untrue.”
Faith Facts
- Rev. Franklin Graham was unable to attend a Christian revival in Nagaland, India, due to a visa timing issue.
- Though his visa was officially approved, it came after he needed to leave to attend the event honoring his father’s legacy.
- Colleagues and local leaders expressed disappointment and concern over the situation’s implications for religious freedom.
Rev. Franklin Graham’s planned participation in a powerful Christian gathering in Nagaland was hindered by timing issues with his visa approval.
This event was meant to honor his late father, Rev. Billy Graham, whose 1972 crusade inspired a generation of believers in the region.
A spokesperson for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association clarified that although the visas were granted by Indian authorities, the approval arrived too late for Graham’s intended journey.
The ministry thanked local pastors, the Nagaland Chief Minister Dr. Niephiu Rio, and the Indian Embassy in Washington, D.C. for their ongoing support.
Robert Cunville, an associate evangelist and close friend to the Graham family, stepped forward to proclaim the Gospel in Franklin Graham’s stead.
Organizers, including local church fellowships, pressed on with the revival, emphasizing the enduring impact of the Billy Graham ministry on Nagaland’s Christian community.
Some Indian and American leaders voiced strong concerns that the delay in granting Graham’s visa raises questions about faith freedom in the world’s largest democracy.
Rep. Adrian Smith of Nebraska called the incident
“a troubling affront to Indian Christians and the Indian constitution’s protections for freedom of religion.”
For over forty years, Franklin Graham’s leadership with Samaritan’s Purse has resulted in humanitarian aid for India, reflecting the Christian commitment to compassion and service.
Chief Minister Rio reminded attendees of the seeds of faith sown by the original 1972 crusade that continue to flourish today.
“Many in our state still cherish the memory of that crusade. It sowed seeds of faith, awakening, and spiritual renewal that continue to bear fruit even today.”
As believers, we remain steadfast, lifting our voices in prayer for the continued freedom to worship and for the enduring witness of Christ in every nation.
Faith Facts
- Rev. Frederick Douglass Haynes III announced his candidacy for Texas District 30 after Rep. Jasmine Crockett declared her Senate run.
- In a recent sermon, Haynes challenged his congregation to confront injustice and pray for courageous leadership.
- Crockett faces public scrutiny over ethics, finances, and workplace environment during her congressional tenure.
Rev. Haynes, leader of a large Dallas church, stepped forward to run for Congress as Rep. Crockett aims for the Senate. His decision follows a passionate sermon encouraging believers to resist injustice and pray for God’s guidance.
He urged Christians to stand against moral and social ills, highlighting the challenges facing communities today. Haynes prayed specifically for protection and wisdom for Crockett, framing political service as a God-given responsibility.
“Is anybody tired yet of the politics of gaslighting, where lies come from the highest office in the land as they erase our history?”
Crockett, praised from the pulpit, also faces notable controversies and concerns regarding her conduct in office. These issues remind Christians of the ongoing need for integrity and accountability in leadership.
Now more than ever, believers are called to engage thoughtfully in civic affairs, upholding the righteous standards established by faith, and praying for honest, God-fearing leaders.
Faith Facts
- A Christian teacher was dismissed for telling a Muslim student that Britain is a Christian country.
- The teacher addressed rule-breaking about feet washing and highlighted Britain’s Christian heritage.
- He was initially banned from working with children, but successfully overturned the ban and is pursuing legal action.
The Free Speech Union is supporting the teacher, emphasizing his right to share truthful facts about Britain’s traditions.
This case highlights concerns over Christian freedoms and the importance of biblical truth in public life.
“This teacher lost his job and almost ended up being barred from the profession for life just because he pointed out to a class of Muslim schoolchildren that the national religion of England is Anglicanism.”
“Things have reached a pretty pass in this country if a teacher can be branded a safeguarding risk because he says something that’s incontestably true. If he’d claimed that Islam is the official religion of England, even though that’s not true, I doubt he would have got into any trouble.”
Standing up for Christian values takes courage—let us continue to pray for those working to preserve faith, truth, and freedom in our nation.
-
Self-Reliance8 months agoTrump’s Bold Move Uncovers Massive Social Security Fraud
-
News9 months agoGovernor Walz’s Rhetoric Sparks National Controversy
-
Faith8 months agoNew Clues Emerge in Noah’s Ark Mystery
-
Family9 months agoTexas Lawmaker Targets Furries in Schools
-
News8 months agoMel Gibson’s ‘The Passion of the Christ’ Sequel Title Announced
-
Freedom9 months agoMaine Lawmaker Challenges Sports Fairness Controversy
-
Family7 months agoCanada’s Controversial Policy Sparks Ethical Debate
-
Faith2 weeks ago
Congress Hears Pleas for Nigerian Christians