Expert: Matt - 6/30/2009

Question
ARE WE GOING TO BURN IN HELL FOR ETERNITY??

Answer
Hi Corey,


Thank you for your question.



Let me start out first by saying NO, the wicked are not going to burn in Hell for eternity.

What the bible means by "forever" in regards to Hell is that the affects are eternal. Once judged (after the 2nd resurrection) there are no more chances, you are dead...put out of existence. "The wages of sin is death" (Romans 6:23) If you sin and do not accept Christ as your substitute, and repent you will die...simple as that...you will die and go to the grave (and or Hell) forever.   

The word "hell" is used 55 times in the Bible, and comes from four different Greek and Hebrew words with three different meanings. 44 out of 55 of which are defined as "the grave". No where in the Bible does "Hell" mean an "eternal place of torment".

One of the most commonly misunderstood texts is Rev 14:11 -- "And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name." First thing is to notice that its the SMOKE of their torment, NOT that the torment itself lasts forever and ever. Yes they will be wiped out by fire. Then the righteous will walk on their ashes (Malachi 4:3).

Most of the book of Revelation is written in a metaphorical context. It is written this way to prove a particular point of truth using symbolism that is mentioned throughout the Bible (alot of which comes from Daniel). John is saying (in strong language) that it is NOT good to worship the beast or its image. You should fear Gods Holy judgement and respect His laws (as mentioned in the next verse).


Corey I hope that this leads you in the right direction for further study.

Let me know if this does not answer your question fully.

One good resource that you might want to check out is  www.helltruth.com.


Godbless,


Matt