The concept of hell has fascinated and frightened people for centuries. But what does the Bible actually say about hell? As a controversial topic, it’s important we stick to the facts.
I’ve dug into Scripture and research to uncover over 10 eye-opening facts about hell. My hope is that through understanding what the Bible teaches, you’ll think carefully about how you want to live your life.
Table of Contents
1. Hell is a real place
While some view hell as symbolic, Jesus spoke about it as a literal place. He describes it as a place of “outer darkness” and “weeping and gnashing of teeth” (Matthew 8:12).
Hell is the ultimate separation from God. In the chilling words of Scripture, those who go there will pay the penalty of “eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord” (2 Thessalonians 1:9).
2. Hell was designed for Satan and demons
God originally prepared the fires of hell for the devil and his angels (Matthew 25:41). Their rebellion required eternal punishment to satisfy a holy God.
Humans end up there by choice, not because God predetermined them to go there. Tragically, people who reject Christ will share the same fate as the evil spiritual beings who tempted them.
3. Hell is the opposite of heaven
Most people picture heaven as paradise. Hell is the polar opposite – darkness, isolation, pain. Everything good is stripped away.
Perhaps the greatest horror of hell is separation from God’s presence. After experiencing His goodness on earth, can you imagine an eternity removed from everything you desire?
That loss is what makes hell truly hellish.
4. Opinions differ on literal fire
Some believe the imagery of fire indicates eternal judgment, not necessarily literal flames. However, Scripture also describes hell as a “fiery furnace” and “lake of fire” (Matthew 13:42, Revelation 20:15).
Ultimately, what matters most is that those consigned to hell face unending punishment and torment. The exact experience may vary for each person.
5. Hell is not Satan’s domain
Pop culture often portrays hell as Satan’s dominion. But Scripture says he does not rule there. On the contrary, he is among the chief prisoners of hell, restrained by its chains (Jude 1:6, Revelation 20:1-3).
The demons tremble at their impending fate (Matthew 8:29). Hell is a place of punishment even for them.
6. There are different theories on hell’s location
Where is hell located? Some propose it’s beneath the earth, while others say it’s not part of the physical universe. Based on Scripture, we can’t say conclusively.
But clearly hell is a distinct region, removed from God’s presence in heaven (Luke 16:26). The precise coordinates are not revealed.
7. Hell may have different degrees of punishment
Jesus indicates varying degrees of punishment in hell based on a person’s knowledge and willful disobedience (Luke 12:47-48). Someone who knows God’s Word yet defiantly rejects it may experience greater judgment.
This means hell is not exactly the same for every occupant. The punishment fits the crime, so to speak.
8. Only those who reject Christ go there
No one has to go to hell. God lovingly paid the penalty for our sins when His Son Jesus died on the cross (1 Peter 2:24). He took the punishment we deserved.
Hell is reserved for those who reject this free gift of salvation. They choose to pay for their own sins rather than accepting Christ’s payment on their behalf.
9. Some dispute hell’s eternality
A minority of scholars debate whether hell truly lasts forever. However, Jesus used the same Greek word to describe both eternal life and eternal punishment (Matthew 25:46). The duration is identical.
Additionally, Scripture describes the smoke of hell’s torment rising “forever and ever” (Revelation 14:11). The permanence is clear.
10. Hell should compel us to share the Gospel
Rather than arguing over hell’s details, Jesus’ followers must proclaim the good news of salvation. Hell is real, and people are perishing without Christ daily.
God doesn’t want anyone to go there! We must spread the Gospel with urgency and compassion. Hell should motivate mission, not debate.
11. The narrow road leads to life
So how can you avoid hell? Jesus urges you to enter through the narrow gate that leads to life (Matthew 7:13-14).
Place your faith in Him. Repent and surrender your life to His control. Then you can rest securely, knowing your eternal destination is heaven!
In Summary
Based on these Bible facts, here’s what we know about hell:
- It’s a literal place of eternal punishment for those who reject Christ.
- God originally created it to punish Satan and demons.
- It’s completely devoid of God’s presence and goodness.
- Opinions differ on whether it contains literal fire.
- It’s not under Satan’s control – he is punished there too.
- Its location is uncertain, but separate from heaven.
- Punishments may vary depending on people’s willful rebellion.
- Only those who reject Christ’s salvation go there.
- Despite debates, Scripture affirms its permanence.
- Awareness of hell should spur us to share the Gospel urgently.
Does the reality of hell make you think carefully about how you are living? I hope so! This life is the time to make the critical choice to receive God’s free gift of salvation through Christ. Don’t wait until it’s too late.
FAQs
What happens in hell?
According to Scripture, hell consists of isolation, darkness, fire, and torment. Most terrifyingly, it means everlasting separation from God and all his goodness. There is no relief or parole from this state.
What does the Bible say about hell?
The Bible clearly affirms hell as a literal place of eternal punishment for the wicked. Descriptions of hell include fire, darkness, weeping, and pain. It is completely devoid of God's presence. The Bible warns that many will tragically reject Christ and spend eternity there.
What does hell feel like?
Hell is a place of suffering and torment, both physical and emotional. The feeling would be agonizing pain, bitter sadness, loneliness, and hopeless despair. Worst of all is the misery of separation from God's mercy and love. The Bible calls it a place of 'weeping and gnashing of teeth.'
Where did the concept of hell originate?
The earliest mentions of hell are in the New Testament. Jesus describes it frequently, warning people to repent so they can avoid this terrible fate. Images of fire and brimstone also appear in the prophets and Revelation. The concept originated from God, not human imagination. Scripture says God prepared hell as a just punishment for evil.
