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
- The Bible Society’s recent survey suggested Sunday church attendance in the UK rose from 8% in 2018 to 12% in 2024.
- The 2025 National Churches Survey highlights up to 2,000 churches at risk of closure, especially in rural areas.
- The British Social Attitudes Survey finds that around 40% of the UK population still identify as Christian, but regular engagement has not increased.
Recent surveys show sharply different pictures of the Christian faith in Britain, causing believers to reflect on the future.
While the Bible Society’s report brings hope to those witnessing newcomers in churches, other data point to difficulties for many longstanding congregations.
“If your church isn’t crying, it’s dying, as the saying goes.”
Churches thriving today are those rooted deeply in the biblical message and fearlessly living out their faith in the culture, which offers a vital lesson for the future of Christian witness in the UK.
This moment calls believers to renewed prayer and bold evangelism, trusting God’s promise to sustain His faithful remnant.
Faith Facts
- Heavy rains have killed over 200 and displaced hundreds of thousands in Southern Africa since December.
- Churches in Mozambique, South Africa, and Zimbabwe are serving as shelter and relief centers for families.
- Authorities warn of increased disease risk and communities remain on high alert for further flooding.
Faith communities are rallying to provide sanctuary as devastating floods across Southern Africa leave families homeless and vulnerable. In Mozambique, South Africa, and Zimbabwe, local congregations are stepping up to shelter and care for those displaced by rising waters and widespread destruction.
The region faces a national disaster with critical infrastructure damaged, leaving many areas inaccessible. Churches have become places of hope, offering food, shelter, and spiritual support when people need it most.
“We have moved the hymnals to the rafters so families can sleep on the floor mats,” said the Rev. Alberto Bila. “The water is at our doorstep, but the church is on the only high ground left.”
President Daniel Chapo of Mozambique stressed the need to save lives as a top priority, and officials are issuing urgent warnings as health threats loom. Victims are contending not only with flooding but with outbreaks of disease and predators entering flooded towns.
Local faith leaders call on believers worldwide to pray and take action, rooted in the Biblical call to care for neighbors in distress. The hands of the church bring Christ’s love and practical aid, strengthening faith, family, and freedom in the darkest storms.
Faith Facts
- Three activists were arrested for disrupting worship at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota.
- They are charged under the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act and conspiracy federal laws.
- Religious leaders and officials reaffirmed America’s commitment to protecting freedom of worship.
The Department of Justice confirmed that federal agents arrested activists after an anti-ICE protest disrupted a Sunday service at Cities Church in St. Paul. Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel stated Nekima Levy Armstrong and Chauntyll Louisa Allen were charged under the FACE Act, which guards access to faith communities.
“Listen loud and clear: WE DO NOT TOLERATE ATTACKS ON PLACES OF WORSHIP,”
Bondi declared, making clear that the protection of churches is a top priority.
The arrests also included William Kelly, who was recorded harassing worshipers and mocking believers. These activists, connected to the Racial Justice Network and Black Lives Matter leadership, stormed the Southern Baptist congregation, cutting the Sunday service short with disruptive shouts.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem emphasized America’s foundational commitment to religious freedom and cited the federal law against conspiring to deprive citizens of their constitutional rights.
“Religious freedom is the bedrock of the United States — there is no first amendment right to obstruct someone from practicing their religion,”
Noem said.
Authorities pointed out that protecting places of worship upholds the nation’s purpose, founded by those fleeing persecution and seeking the freedom to worship God in peace.
As faith and freedom come under attack, Christians must remain vigilant in prayer, defending the right to worship, and standing together to preserve the legacy of our founders’ devotion to God. Now is the time to boldly defend what is sacred to our families and churches.
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