Sermon on Hell
Brothers and sisters, let us address a difficult, yet crucial, topic: Hell. While it is not a subject we relish, it is one that Scripture addresses with seriousness, and therefore, we must examine it with honesty and reverence.
1. Hell is a Real Place Created for the Devil and His Angels (Matthew 25:41)
"Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.’" Matthew 25:41 clearly states that hell is a prepared place. It was not originally intended for humanity, but for the devil and his fallen angels. This reality underscores the severity of rejecting God’s offer of salvation.
2. Hell is a Place of Suffering and Torment (Mark 9:44)
"where ‘the worms that eat them do not die, and the fire is not quenched.’" Mark 9:44, and other passages, speak of the torment of hell. The imagery of unquenchable fire and undying worms conveys the idea of unending suffering. While we may not fully comprehend the nature of this suffering, the Bible leaves no doubt that it is a reality.
3. Hell is a Place of Total Separation from God (Matthew 8:12)
"while the subjects of the kingdom will be thrown outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”" Matthew 8:12 emphasizes the spiritual desolation of hell. It is a place of utter darkness, a complete separation from the light and love of God. This separation is perhaps the most profound aspect of hell's torment.
4. Hell is a Place of Justice and Retribution (Hebrews 9:27)
"Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment." Hebrews 9:27 reminds us of the reality of judgment. Hell is a consequence of rejecting God’s offer of grace. It is a place where divine justice is ultimately served. This is not a matter of vindictiveness, but of righteous judgment against sin.
5. Hell Was Not Made for the Righteous (2 Peter 3:9)
"The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." 2 Peter 3:9 underscores God's desire for all to be saved. He does not delight in the punishment of the wicked, but longs for their repentance and restoration. Hell is not the default destination for humanity, but a choice.
6. There Will Be No Second Chances in Hell (Luke 16:26)
"And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been set in place, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us." Luke 16:26, in the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, emphasizes the finality of death and judgment. There are no second chances after death. The choices we make in this life have eternal consequences.
7. The Broad Road Leads to Hell (Matthew 7:13)
"Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it." Matthew 7:13 warns us that the path to destruction is wide and well-traveled. It is the path of worldly pleasures and self-centeredness. The narrow gate, on the other hand, represents the path of faith and obedience.
8. Hell is for Those Who Reject Salvation in Christ (John 3:18)
“Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.” John 3:18 clearly states that those who reject Jesus Christ are already condemned. Belief in Jesus is the only way to escape God’s righteous judgement.
9. There Will Be Conscience and Sorrow in Hell (Luke 16:24)
"So he called to him, ‘Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.’" Luke 16:24 shows that there will be conscience and sorrow in hell. The rich man remembers his past life and his neglect of Lazarus. This suggests that the inhabitants of hell will be fully aware of their choices and their consequences.
10. Jesus Christ Is the Only Way to Escape Hell (John 14:6)
"Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”" John 14:6 proclaims that Jesus is the only way to salvation. He is the bridge between God and humanity, the only one who can deliver us from eternal separation.
Conclusion
Brothers and sisters, the reality of hell is a sobering truth. But it is not a reason for despair. Rather, it is a call to action. It is a call to embrace the salvation offered through Jesus Christ, to turn from our sins, and to live a life devoted to Him. Let us share the Gospel with those who are lost, that they too may find eternal life in Him. Amen.
