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
- A recent report shows over 80% of Christian educators rate student mental health as “good” or “excellent.”
- Schools with faith-centered practices, cellphone policies, and mental health awareness had stronger student well-being outcomes.
- The well-being of educators closely relates to how they perceive student mental health in their schools.
A new report surveying more than 1,400 Christian school educators in the United States highlighted strong student mental health in faith-based environments.
Educators connected faith integration and compassionate support with better wellness among students, distinguishing these schools from concerning national trends.
“It’s very encouraging to know that the vast majority of respondents rated student mental health at their schools ‘excellent’ or ‘good.’ But that’s just the beginning of the conversation, not the end.”
“It would be well worth investigating the mechanisms by which Christian schools are addressing mental health, including integrating their faith-based missions, which educators in our survey perceive as making a difference.”
said Dr. Lynn E. Swaner, president of Cardus U.S.
School policies addressing technology use, along with prioritizing spiritual development, were found to positively impact student well-being.
Strong staff wellness was also shown to benefit students, underlining the importance of supporting educators as well.
“I hope this report’s findings will encourage meaningful discussions among educators that may lead to more effective and intentional policies and practices that support the mental health of our students.”
shared Dr. Rian Djita, director of research for ACSI.
Now is the ideal time for Christian schools to rely on Biblical principles to strengthen both their students and staff, keeping faith, family, and freedom at the heart of education.
Faith Facts
- Eric Rivera, a devout Christian first-grade teacher, was threatened with termination for refusing to read LGBT-themed books.
- Rivera requested a religious accommodation, seeking to have another teacher read the material that conflicted with his biblical beliefs.
- Legal advocates assert the school violated civil rights law by failing to accommodate Rivera’s religious convictions.
Standing firm in his Christian faith, Eric Rivera declined to read a book promoting same-sex marriage to his elementary students at KIPP Antioch College Prep Elementary School in Nashville, Tennessee. He respectfully asked for a faith-based accommodation so his teaching would remain consistent with his beliefs upholding biblical marriage.
A legal team representing Rivera insists that schools have a duty to respect and accommodate religious convictions under federal civil rights protections. The case also raises concerns about transparency for parents regarding materials with sexual and gender-related content.
“Requiring a teacher violate their religious beliefs in order to keep their job is blatant discrimination that violates the Civil Rights Act,” said Cliff Martin, senior counsel at First Liberty Institute.
This matter underscores the importance of safeguarding religious liberty for educators and defending the right to teach according to biblical principles without fear of reprisal.
Our Christian values call us to support educators who stand by their beliefs. Pray for Mr. Rivera, for courage in our nation’s schools, and for a return to faith-based values in education for our children and our country’s future.
Faith Facts
- George Washington was the first President of the United States and commanded the American forces to victory during the Revolutionary War.
- He was born on February 22, 1732, to Augustine and Mary Ball Washington, joining a family with five siblings and three half-siblings.
- While many know his achievements, some of his personal traits and devout character are less known but equally inspiring.
Washington’s leadership and devotion to his country continue to stand as a testament to God’s providence in American history.
As we remember his birthday, let us reflect on the enduring principles of liberty, faith, and honor that he championed for generations to come.
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