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
- Punjab Province has set 18 as the minimum legal marriage age for all, protecting children from exploitation.
- The new ordinance, signed by Gov. Saleem Haider Khan, makes child marriage a serious, non-bailable crime with strict penalties for offenders, facilitators, and negligent guardians.
- Christian leaders and advocates support the law as a milestone for justice, urging it becomes permanent to shield vulnerable girls, including those at risk of forced faith conversions.
Punishing child marriage reflects a renewed commitment to Biblical values of protecting youth and upholding family dignity. The law removes gender discrimination and enforces equal safeguards against abuse for boys and girls alike.
“The establishment of 18 as the uniform minimum age sends a clear message that child marriage will not be tolerated,” said Ejaz Alam Augustine, a Christian member of the Punjab Assembly and former provincial minister for human rights and minority affairs.
This reform answers the prayers of those who cherish life and justice, defending innocence and defending minorities from coercion and harm. Let us pray that these God-honoring protections endure and inspire other nations to value every child’s God-given worth.
Faith Facts
- Northern Colombia endures historic floods with over 140,000 people affected.
- Evangelical churches unite to provide relief, prayer, and hope for the displaced.
- Authorities investigate local reservoir management while communities look to faith.
Massive flooding in northern Colombia has devastated communities and left thousands without homes or belongings. Local churches are stepping forward with compassionate action, showing the power of faith in the face of disaster.
As the waters rise in departments like Córdoba, Christian leaders remind everyone to turn to God and care for each other as scripture commands.
“This is an event without precedent in our history; we have no reports of an incident of such magnitude,” said Córdoba Governor Erasmo Zuleta.
Evangelical ministries, led by CEDECOL, are collecting aid and organizing prayer as families grieve their losses. Relief workers see this crisis as a call to demonstrate love and serve neighbors, following Christ’s example.
“We are mobilizing and present in Montería, responding to the call of communities affected by the emergency. Through our Humanitarian Aid Commission, we pray with displaced families and provide breakfast as a tangible expression of love, solidarity, and commitment,” CEDECOL affirmed.
As believers join in prayer and offer practical help, faith stands as a beacon of hope for the suffering. Let’s continue to pray and act, sharing God’s love through every challenge.
Faith Facts
- James Van Der Beek passed away at 48 after facing Stage 3 colorectal cancer.
- Candace Cameron Bure and Danica McKellar mourned his loss, expressing heartfelt tributes rooted in Christian faith.
- A GoFundMe for his family surpassed $1.4 million, demonstrating community support.
James Van Der Beek’s journey inspired many as he walked through the valley of cancer with courage and unwavering faith. His life was marked by dedication to his family and reliance on God through difficult times.
He is survived by his wife, Kimberly, and their six children, who deeply feel the loss of a loving husband and father. Christian voices like Candace Cameron Bure and Danica McKellar shared reflections on how Van Der Beek’s testimony of faith encouraged others facing hardship.
“He met his final days with courage, faith, and grace. There is much to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity and the sacredness of time.”
“Those days will come. For now we ask for peaceful privacy as we grieve our loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend.”
Bure posted a tribute expressing her heartbreak, while McKellar highlighted Van Der Beek’s message that
“faith sustained him during the most difficult season of his life.”
Actress Leigh-Allyn Baker asked for prayer and support for the grieving family, and the success of their GoFundMe campaign showed just how many lives he touched.
Van Der Beek’s testimony reflected Biblical truths about identity, suffering, and belonging in Christ. Through public statements, he reminded others of God’s love, especially in our weakest moments.
“I am worthy of God’s love simply because I exist. And if I’m worthy of God’s love, shouldn’t I also be worthy of my own?”
Moments like these remind us to cherish our loved ones, keep faith at the core of our lives, and support families in need. Let’s continue to pray for the Van Der Beek family and seek to uplift one another with steadfast Christian hope.
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