What Does the

Bible Say About

Eternal
Judgment?
by Norman S. Edwards

August 2000 (revised title page and table of contents, new appendices added)

What happens to people after they die? What will happen to those who
believe in God?
What will happen to those who don’t? What about people who have
never heard of God?
What about people who claim to “know God”, but do evil?
Do the things that we do in this life make any difference?
Yes they do! These questions are answered in the Bible. Many hundreds of Bible verses teach us
about this subject. Unfortunately, they are not too often read—myths and fables are taught
instead. But all of us should know the purpose for our life now, and understand how we will be
judged for it later.

A few hours may be required to read this paper—which consists mostly of quotations from the
Bible. But it may be one of the most significant few hours that you ever spend—whether you are
just beginning to study the Bible or have studied it all your life. The important part of the
message is contained in the first pages. The appendices contain material for more extensive
study and to answer specific questions.
I encourage you to read all of the Bible quotations as you go through—even if you are familiar
with them. It is so easy for us to assume that we know what the Bible says on a certain subject—
and then to read right over words that actually say something else. I have put some of the Bible
words in boldface type to draw attention to words that are too often passed over too quickly.
Because Bible translators have a variety of opinions on eternal judgment and related doctrines,
their translations differ significantly on some related verses. I have chosen other translations
when I believe they better represent the original Greek and Hebrew texts.

Be ready for some surprises. Many traditional Christian teachings come from the Bible, but some
do not—they come from Greek philosophy or other religions. When studying a particular doctrine,
it is always important to ask: "Where is this doctrine actually taught in the Bible?" Are there any
scriptures that actually establish the doctrine? Or are there only scriptures that are compatible
with the doctrine? In other words, can the doctrine be taught simply by reading scriptures? Or
does someone have to teach the doctrine first and then read scriptures that go along with it, but
do not teach it?

Bible quotations are from the New International Version (NIV) unless otherwise noted.

Other Bible abbreviations: Darby (The Darby Bible), KJV (King James Version),
NAB (New American Bible), NASB (New American Standard Bible), NJB (New Jerusalem Bible),
NKJV (New King James Version), NRSV (New Revised Standard Version), and
YLT (Young’s Literal Translation)

Words enclosed in brackets [ ] within Bible quotations are explanatory notes added by this author.

This paper may be copied and distributed free of charge.

Original copy of this material may be obtained from:

PO Box 474, Port Austin, Michigan, 48467-0474,

USA Phone: 989-738-7700
E-mail: Info @ ServantsNews.com
http://www.servantsnews.com

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 CONTENTS
Facing the Issue Each Individual Judged by What They
Individually Know
Judgment for all Men
Judgment for Believers: Both Now and Later
Doesn’t Jesus Save Christians from All
Judgment? Table Summarizing Various Classes of People
in Judgment
How Was David Delivered From Sin?
Effect of Various Christian “Eternal-Destiny”
Is David in Heaven? Doctrines If They Were True

What About Hell? Minimizing Our Own Judgment—Loving Our

Neighbors as Ourselves
Judgment of All Nations Historically
Minimizing Our Own Judgment—Loving God
Two Resurrections and Judgments with All Our Heart

First Resurrection The “Unpardonable Sin”

Second Resurrection The Purpose of God

Table of Bible Order of Judgments God Provides the Strength We Need

Judgment After Second Resurrection Will Take Summary

Many Years

Appendices
The appendices cover specific issues and do not necessarily need to be read in order. They were published
several months after the first 40 pages. The first two appendices contain some significant new
information which should have been in the main section.

Judgment After Second Resurrection Will Take Verses Seeming to Support “Universal
Many Years (continued) Salvation”

Scriptures About Punishment for Sin Verses Clearly Refuting “Universal Salvation”

Is Sin Really So Bad? Verses Seeming to Support “Predestination”

“Universal Salvation” and “Predestination” Verses Clearly Refuting “Predestination”

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Conclusion on Universal Salvation and Parable of Lazarus and the Rich Man
Predestination
God’s “Book of Life” and Other Books
Does the Bible Teach a “Rapture”?
Angels Judged Also
Are There “Go To Heaven” Verses?
Situations Where We Must Judge Now
Fire is a Symbol of Judgment
Why Does God Allow People to Believe So
Verses Mentioning “Hell” Many Different Things?

Other Words for “Places” or “States” of Trial

and Punishment

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Facing the Issue

T he idea of facing eternal judgment has never been easy for anyone—even for the bold and powerful.
The powerful Roman governor Felix dealt with the problem this way.

As Paul discoursed on righteousness, self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and
said, "That’s enough for now! You may leave. When I find it convenient, I will send for you." At
the same time he was hoping that Paul would offer him a bribe (Acts 24:25-26).

Felix reacted in a manner common to human leaders who are over many people. He put the "judgment to
come" out of his mind, and then went on to sin—in this case, to seek a bribe (Deut 16:19).

Is "eternal judgment" or the "judgment to come" Many people believe that if they are a member of a
something we should be concerned about in our daily certain church, or if they believe a certain set of
living? Or is it more of a topic of discussion for learned doctrines, then they will automatically be rewarded
theologians? How does the Bible classify it? Hebrews upon death. Some believe they are going to Heaven.
6 records six basic doctrines: Others believe they will be raised from the dead and
immediately enter the Kingdom of God on earth. Still
...the foundation of repentance from dead others believe other things.
works, and of faith toward God, Of the
doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of Pastors and preachers often assure people that they are
hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of on the most direct path to eternal life by remaining a
eternal judgment (Heb 6:1-2). member of their group and continuing to give it
generous financial support. This "buying your way to
Nearly all Christian groups teach the first two of these Heaven" approach may seem attractive to some, but
doctrines. Most of them teach the second two the Bible simply does not teach it.
doctrines; but not many teach the last two. How much
do you know about the resurrection of the dead or The Apostle Paul condemned the forming of factions
eternal judgment? These doctrines go together—if around certain Bible teachers, even though the teachers
there is no resurrection of the dead, then there is no were men of God (1Cor 1:11-15; 3:1-8). The Bible
righteous judgment for all (righteous judgment seldom never mentions people being rewarded because they
occurs in this life). On the other hand, why raise people were a member of the "right group" or had "the right
from the dead if there is no hope of changing them doctrines". Even when Christ wrote letters to seven
from a miserable life that so many have had before church groups (Rev 1:4,11 and chapters 2 & 3), He
they died? told each member to listen to each message to each
church. Christ promised individual rewards "to him
The "Resurrection of the Dead" and "Eternal who overcomes" in each group.
Judgment" are indeed important doctrines. They
tell us about what will happen to us for all eternity, and Nearly all of the scriptures about judgment show that it
they tell us that what we do now matters—it matters a is not "who you know" that counts, but "who you
lot! are" and "what you do". At your time of judgment,
the leader of your church group will not be there to say
Unfortunately, not all the beliefs that most Christians "he (or she) is in our group, no judgment is needed".
commonly hold come from the Bible. Much Christian
teaching does come from the Bible, so most Christians "Now therefore, let the fear of the Lord be
tend to trust their ministers. But that works against upon you; take care and do it, for there is no
them in the cases where non-Biblical teaching has iniquity with the Lord our God, no partiality,
crept into the churches. nor taking of bribes" (2Chr 19:7).

5
God is perfectly fair in His judgment. He will not let Therefore judge nothing before the appointed
someone else "get you off the hook" nor condemn you time; wait till the Lord comes. He will bring
unjustly. "God is love" (1Jn 4:16). He makes a way for to light what is hidden in darkness and will
us to be forgiven from sin and judged favorably—but expose the motives of men’s hearts. At that
we have to do it His way. Let us learn what He says in time each will receive his praise from God
the Bible. (If you have doubts about the Bible, please (1Cor 4:5).
ask for our free article, What is Christian Religion?)
I have confidence in you, in the Lord, that you
Judgment for all Men will have no other mind; but he who troubles
you shall bear his judgment, whoever he is
A common belief is: "When good people die they go (Gal 5:10, NKJV).
to Heaven, and when bad people die, they go to
Hell." But does the Bible say this? If so, which verses? Judgment extends to every aspect of what we say and
Actually, there is no clear verse that states this. Rather, do:
Hebrews 6, verses 1-2 speak of the fundamental
doctrines of the "resurrection of the dead" and of But I [Christ] tell you that men will have to
"eternal judgment". Many verses from many parts of give account on the day of judgment for every
the Bible tell us that all people are awaiting a careless word they have spoken (Matt 12:36).
resurrection and judgment. We will look at some of
these clear "judgment" verses now, and then examine Doesn’t Jesus Save Christians from All Judgment?
the Bible teaching on "Heaven" and "Hell" later:
Before anyone stops reading this paper because
For the Son of Man is going to come in his he/she says "it advocates salvation by works", please
Father’s glory with his angels, and then he will finish this section. We are not saved by our works!
reward each person according to what he We are saved by Christ’s works—by His sinless life,
has done (Matt 16:27). death and resurrection, and by His works in us today.
We cannot do His work for Him, but we can resist His
And as it is appointed for men to die once, but work in our lives and replace it with our own works.
after this the judgment (Heb 9:27, NKJV). But if we don’t see His works—the fruits of His spirit
in our lives—then we need to ask Him to show us
In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, where we need to change, and how to let Him do a
who will judge the living and the greater work in our lives.
dead...(2Tim 4:1).
The basics of salvation are taught extensively by many
Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion Evangelical churches: First, all must recognize that
of the matter: Fear God and keep his they are sinners:
commandments, for this is the whole duty of
man. For God will bring every deed into for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of
judgment, including every hidden thing, God (Rom 3:23),
whether it is good or evil (Eccl 12:13-14).
For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of
The previous verse shows that even hidden things will God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord
be judged. Unsolved murders and kidnappings often (Rom 6:23).
make big headlines. Many remain unsolved—but God
knows about them all. I have had things stolen from For you were like sheep going astray, but now
me, and you have probably had something stolen from you have returned to the Shepherd and
you—not knowing who did it. God knows. We should Overseer of your souls (1Pet 2:25).
not become bitter if people are not "brought to justice"
at this time, because God will judge them later and Second, all must recognize that Christ came as a
their true motives will be uncovered. sacrifice for the sins of all people, and accept that
sacrifice:

6
 Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law I have been crucified with Christ and I no
by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I
"Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree" live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of
(Gal 3:13). God, who loved me and gave himself for me
(Gal 2:20).
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for
those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Let your light so shine before men, that they
Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me may see your good works and glorify your
free from the law of sin and death (Rom 8:1). Father in heaven. Do not think that I came to
destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not
Therefore, since we have been justified come to destroy but to fulfill (Matt 5:16-17).
through faith, we have peace with God through
our Lord Jesus Christ (Rom 5:1). The law defines what sin is. "Everyone who sins
breaks the law; in fact, sin is lawlessness" (1Jn 3:4).
Whoever believes in him is not condemned, Christ offers forgiveness from our sins and a removal
but whoever does not believe stands of the "curse of the law"—the death penalty—but He
condemned already because he has not did not eliminate all laws and penalties. If He did, there
believed in the name of God’s one and only would never be a need to judge anybody! Everyone
Son (John 3:18). could "accept Jesus" and then simply continue to live
however he wanted. All penalties would be gone.
Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My When a person repents and asks for Christ’s
word and believes in Him who sent Me has forgiveness of sin, this only covers his/her past sins. It
everlasting life, and shall not come into is not a "blank check" to sin as much as one wants in
judgment, but has passed from death into life the future. John, writing to believers, showed them that
(John 5:24). each must continually confess his or her own sin to
receive forgiveness.
Blessed are they whose transgressions are
forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just
the man whose sin the Lord will never count and will forgive us our sins and purify us from
against him (Rom 4:7). all unrighteousness (1Jn 1:9).

If we read only the verses immediately above, we I acknowledged my sin to You, And my
might conclude that those who have accepted Christ’s iniquity I have not hidden. I said, "I will
sacrifice will not be judged at all. Indeed, His sacrifice confess my transgressions to the Lord," And
is big enough to cover all sin—to deliver us from death You forgave the iniquity of my sin... (Pslm
and all judgment—but we sometimes get in His way. It 32:5, NKJV).
further shows how we can reduce the judgment against
ourselves now. Notice what Paul says: The whole purpose of our repentance and Christ’s
forgiveness is so that we can live a good life as He
So then, each of us will give an account of lived:
himself to God (Rom 14:12).
[Christ] who gave himself for us to redeem us
For we must all appear before the judgment from all wickedness and to purify for himself a
seat of Christ, that each one may receive what people that are his very own, eager to do what
is due him for the things done while in the is good (Titus 2:14).
body, whether good or bad (2Cor 5:10).
First to those in Damascus, then to those in
Christ made it very clear that He did not come to Jerusalem and in all Judea, and to the Gentiles
abolish the law, but to establish the law and make a also, I preached that they should repent and
way for Him to do good works through us. turn to God and prove their repentance by
their deeds (Acts 26:20).

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 For it is by grace you have been saved, through expectation of judgment and of raging fire that
faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the will consume the enemies of God. 28 Anyone
gift of God—not by works, so that no one can who rejected the law of Moses died without
boast. For we are God’s workmanship, created mercy on the testimony of two or three
in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God witnesses. 29 How much more severely do you
prepared in advance for us to do (Eph 2:8). think a man deserves to be punished who has
trampled the Son of God under foot, who has
Christ does make His righteousness available to His treated as an unholy thing the blood of the
followers, but even they do not always accept it. Have covenant that sanctified him, and who has
you ever seen someone who claims to be a Christian do insulted the Spirit of grace? 30 For we know
something that the Bible clearly calls a sin? Have you him who said, "It is mine to avenge; I will
ever seen Christians offend each other or get in a repay," and again, "The Lord will judge his
verbal "fight"? If you have known very many people." 31 It is a dreadful thing to fall into the
Christians very long, you probably have. Notice that hands of the living God (Heb 10:26-31).
the Apostles Paul and John still believed that even they
sinned at times: What happens to a Christian who has some unknown
or willful sin? How much is too much? What will God
I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in do about it? All of these questions will be solved by
my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do Christ’s righteous judgment, either in this life, or after
what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For a resurrection in the future.
what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the
evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing How Was David Delivered From Sin?
(Rom 7:18).
Before we study more scriptures on judgment, we need
If we claim to be without sin, we deceive to understand something about the forgiveness of sin.
ourselves and the truth is not in us (1Jn 1:8). People can have their sins forgiven without the
consequences of their sins being removed. For
It takes time for those who believe in Christ to "take example, a father may abandon his family, then repent
captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ" of the sin when he is old—but his children will always
(2Cor 10:5), to "grow in the grace and knowledge of remember the difficulties associated with "growing up
our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (2Pet 3:18), to "Be without a dad". A woman may crash into you with her
perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect" car and cause great injury and repent before God, but
(Matt 5:48). They can sin in weakness as Paul you may not be instantly healed of your injury.
mentioned above, or sin and not even know it. Repentant persons can do things to try to make up for
their sin, but they cannot "undo" the problem
King David of Israel was "a man after God’s own completely—and most of the time, God does not
heart" (Acts 13:22). Would it not be nice if God "undo" it either.
would say that about you? Or me? Even though King
David had the Holy Spirit (Pslm 51:11), he asked God David was a man with the Holy Spirit (Pslm 51:11;
about his "unknown sins". He said, "Who can Mark 12:36). He has been promised eternal life by God
understand his errors? Cleanse me from secret faults" (Jer 30:9; Ezk 37:25; Hos 3:5—all of these verses were
(Pslm 19:12, NKJV). David wanted to be as righteous written after David was dead). He is listed as one of the
as possible—he was not interested in trying to do "just "faithful" in Hebrews 11 (Heb 11:1-3,32). But David
enough" to obtain salvation. sinned. He committed adultery with Bathsheba, then
had her husband, Uriah, killed (2Sam 11). Such sins
At the opposite extreme, it is possible for some who deserved the death penalty (Lev 20:10; 24:17). But
know the truth to deliberately sin and disregard God. God "put away David’s sin (see verse 13, below).
They will be judged—severely! Please read this important account of David’s
forgiveness and judgment. Notice how God sent a
If we deliberately keep on sinning after we prophet to tell David a parable so David could "see
have received the knowledge of the truth, no himself" and "judge himself".
sacrifice for sins is left, 27 but only a fearful

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1
The Lord sent Nathan [the prophet] to David. The Bible goes on to record the fourfold judgment
When he came to him, he said, "There were (verse 6) against David. David’s life was spared, but
two men in a certain town, one rich and the the baby born to Bathsheba died. Later, David’s
other poor. 2 The rich man had a very large firstborn son, Amnon, raped his half-sister, Tamar,
number of sheep and cattle, 3 but the poor man then was killed by her full brother Absalom (2Sam 13).
had nothing except one little ewe lamb he had Later Absalom tried to make himself king, did "lie with
bought. He raised it, and it grew up with him his father’s wives" as prophesied above, and was killed
and his children. It shared his food, drank from by David’s general, Joab (2Sam 15-18). When David
his cup and even slept in his arms. It was like a was on his deathbed, another son, Adonijah, tried to
daughter to him. 4 "Now a traveler came to the make himself king and later had to be executed by
rich man, but the rich man refrained from Solomon, the King whom God chose (1Kngs 1-2).
taking one of his own sheep or cattle to prepare
a meal for the traveler who had come to him. All of this happened because of a sin that God "took
Instead, he took the ewe lamb that belonged to away". David’s punishment is not simply an "Old
the poor man and prepared it for the one who Testament" response from God. Even in the New
had come to him." 5 David burned with anger Testament, God sometimes forgave sins while leaving
against the man and said to Nathan, "As surely a judgment in place. The apostle Paul started out
as the Lord lives, the man who did this persecuting the Church (Acts 8:1-4; 9:1-2). God spoke
deserves to die! 6 He must pay for that lamb to him and told him that he was wrong and must repent
four times over [David knew God’s and serve Him. God told Ananias to tell Paul, "I will
judgments—Ex 22:1], because he did such a show him how much he must suffer for my name"
thing and had no pity." 7 Then Nathan said to (Acts 9:16). Paul suffered greatly (2Cor 11:23-28).
David, "You are the man! This is what the Paul understood it was linked to what he did: "For I am
Lord, the God of Israel, says: ‘I anointed you the least of the apostles and do not even deserve to be
king over Israel, and I delivered you from the called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of
hand of Saul. 8 I gave your master’s house to God" (1Cor 15:9).
you, and your master’s wives into your arms. I
gave you the house of Israel and Judah. And if God is love. He is also just. In His infinite wisdom, He
all this had been too little, I would have given knows that He cannot simply ignore all sin, but must
you even more. 9 Why did you despise the clearly show us that sin has consequences.
word of the Lord by doing what is evil in his
eyes? You struck down Uriah the Hittite with Is David in Heaven?
the sword and took his wife to be your own.
You killed him with the sword of the
Ammonites. 10 Now, therefore, the sword will There is another lesson we need to learn from David’s
never depart from your house, because you life. We already saw several Bible verses showing he
despised me and took the wife of Uriah the was a man of God. But is he in Heaven now?
Hittite to be your own.’ 11 "This is what the 29
Lord says: ‘Out of your own household I am Brothers, I can tell you confidently that the
going to bring calamity upon you. Before your patriarch David died and was buried, and his
very eyes I will take your wives and give tomb is here to this day. 30 But he was a
them to one who is close to you, and he will prophet and knew that God had promised him
lie with your wives in broad daylight. 12 You on oath that he would place one of his
did it in secret, but I will do this thing in broad descendants on his throne. 31 Seeing what was
daylight before all Israel.’" 13 Then David said ahead, he spoke of the resurrection of the
to Nathan, "I have sinned against the Lord." Christ, that he was not abandoned to the grave,
Nathan replied, "The Lord has taken away nor did his body see decay. 32 God has raised
your sin. You are not going to die. 14 But this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of
because by doing this you have made the the fact. 33 Exalted to the right hand of God, he
enemies of the Lord show utter contempt, the has received from the Father the promised
son born to you will die" (2Sam 12:1-14) Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now
see and hear. 34 For David did not ascend to
heaven, and yet he said, "The Lord said to my

9
 Lord: ‘Sit at my right hand 35 until I make those who have fallen asleep.16 For the Lord
your enemies a footstool for your feet.’" himself will come down from heaven, with a
36
Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: loud command, with the voice of the archangel
God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead
both Lord and Christ (Acts 2:29-36). in Christ will rise first. 17 After that, we who
are still alive and are left will be caught up
David is not in "Heaven", but in the grave awaiting a together with them in the clouds to meet the
resurrection. Even though it is a common Christian Lord in the air. And so we will be with the
belief, the Bible does not teach that people go Lord forever (1Thes 4:13-17).
immediately to Heaven when they die!
The Apostles, in their writings frequently compared
Abraham and Moses will also be in the Kingdom of death to sleep (1Cor 11:30; 15:6,18,51; Eph 5:14; 2Pet
God (Luke 13:28). But what does the Bible say 3:4). During sleep, a person still exists, but they are not
happened to Abraham and Moses? conscious. Where did they get this idea? Directly from
Christ!
Then Abraham breathed his last and died at a
11
good old age, an old man and full of years; and After he had said this, he went on to tell
he was gathered to his people (Gen 25:8). them, "Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep;
but I am going there to wake him up." 12 His
On that same day the Lord told Moses, ... disciples replied, "Lord, if he sleeps, he will
There on the mountain that you have climbed get better." 13 Jesus had been speaking of his
you will die and be gathered to your people, death, but his disciples thought he meant
just as your brother Aaron died on Mount Hor natural sleep. 14 So then he told them plainly,
and was gathered to his people (Deut "Lazarus is dead, 15 and for your sake I am
32:48,50). glad I was not there, so that you may believe.
But let us go to him." ... 23 Jesus said to her,
The expression "gathered to his people" refers to the "Your brother will rise again." 24 Martha
literal Hebrew burial practice: Bodies of the dead were answered, "I know he will rise again in the
lain in tombs. When the next member of a family died, resurrection at the last day" (John 11:11-15,
all that was usually left of the previous member was 23-24).
bones, were which gathered up and placed in a corner
with bones of previous ancestors—a literal "gathering Jesus used this analogy on another occasion, and told
to his people". us a little more about what happens when a person
rises from the dead.
There is no mention of these great men of the Bible, 49
"going to Heaven", going to "meet their maker" or While Jesus was still speaking, someone
anything of the sort. All of the "faithful" mentioned in came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue
Hebrews 11 "all died in faith, not having received the ruler. "Your daughter is dead," he said.
promises" (v 13). They suffered "so that they might "Don’t bother the teacher any more."
50
gain a better resurrection" (v 35). This resurrection has Hearing this, Jesus said to Jairus, "Don’t be
not occurred yet, but occurs at the Return of Christ to afraid; just believe, and she will be healed."
51
this earth: When he arrived at the house of Jairus, he
did not let anyone go in with him except Peter,
13
Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant John and James, and the child’s father and
about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like mother. 52 Meanwhile, all the people were
the rest of men, who have no hope. 14 We wailing and mourning for her. "Stop wailing,"
believe that Jesus died and rose again and so Jesus said. "She is not dead but asleep."
53
we believe that God will bring with Jesus They laughed at him, knowing that she was
those who have fallen asleep in him. 15 dead. 54 But he took her by the hand and said,
According to the Lord’s own word, we tell you "My child, get up!" 55 Her spirit returned, and
that we who are still alive, who are left till the at once she stood up. Then Jesus told them to
coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede give her something to eat (Luke 8:49-55).

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The last verse, above, says that "her spirit returned". Turn, O Lord, and deliver me; save me
Our bodies are made of the same stuff as the dust of because of your unfailing love. No one
the ground. "For dust you are and to dust you will remembers you when he is dead. Who praises
return" (Gen 3:29). Modern biology confirms this—yet you from the grave? (Pslm 6:4-5.)
still cannot figure out exactly what makes living things
"live". "Look," he said, "I see heaven open and the
Son of Man standing at the right hand of
The Lord God formed the man from the dust of God."... While they were stoning him, Stephen
the ground and breathed into his nostrils the prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." Then
breath of life, and the man became a living he fell on his knees and cried out, "Lord, do
being (Gen 2:7). not hold this sin against them." When he had
said this, he fell asleep (Acts 7:56,59-60).
The Greek word for "spirit" is pneuma, which means
"air" (from which we get our word "pneumatic"). The Steven was granted miraculous vision into Heaven
analogy between breath and spirit is made frequently in before he died. But he did not say, "I’ll be there in a
the Bible. God added the "breath of life"—a spiritual minute!" He said his "spirit" would go and that he "fell
component—to make Adam a living being. It was that asleep". Even when Jesus died, did He go immediately
spirit or breath that had to be restored to the little girl to Heaven?
so she could live.
For as Jonah was three days and three nights in
But it is the spirit in a man, the breath of the the belly of a huge fish, so the Son of Man will
Almighty, that gives him understanding. (Job be three days and three nights in the heart
32:8) of the earth" (Matt 12:40).

For who among men knows the thoughts of a Jesus said [to Mary, shortly after His
man except the man’s spirit within him? In resurrection], "Do not hold on to me, for I
the same way no one knows the thoughts of have not yet returned to the Father... (John
God except the Spirit of God (1Cor 2:11). 20:17).

Then the dust will return to the earth as it was, Many scriptures show us that Jesus is now in Heaven
And the spirit will return to God who gave it with the Father and with many other spiritual beings.
(Eccl 12:7, NKJV). But does the Bible say that the other apostles and
brethren are with him there? Do the expressions "gone
These verses show that a body with a spirit is required to be with the Lord" or "gone to Heaven" appear in the
for human life—that the spirit comes from God and Bible? James the brother of John was killed fairly early
returns to him at death. So how does Christ’s analogy in the book of Acts (Acts 12:2), yet there is no
of sleep fit in with this? Obviously, a dead body does reference to him being in Heaven or to any other
not sleep—it decays and is "recycled" by other living believer dying and "going to see James". Rather, there
things. So it must be the spirit that sleeps. Is that what are plain biblical statements:
the Bible says?
No one has ascended to heaven but He who
Do not trust in princes, In mortal man, in came down from heaven, that is, the Son of
whom there is no salvation. His spirit departs, Man who is in heaven (John 3:13, NKJV).
he returns to the earth; In that very day his
thoughts perish (Pslm 146:3-4, NASB). For David did not ascend to heaven, and yet he
said, "The Lord said to my Lord: ‘Sit at my
Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all right hand until I make your enemies a
your might, for in the grave, where you are footstool for your feet’" (Acts 2:34-35).
going, there is neither working nor planning
nor knowledge nor wisdom (Eccl 9:10). In spite of these many plain statements in the Bible
showing that believers who are dead "sleep" until the
resurrection, the teaching that "good people go to

11
Heaven when they die" has so inundated us that the brought into the glorious freedom of the
same scriptures are assumed to prove this doctrine children of God. 22 We know that the whole
even though they do not. The most common scriptures creation has been groaning as in the pains of
misused in this manner are: childbirth right up to the present time. 23 Not
only so, but we ourselves, who have the
If I am to go on living in the body, this will firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we
mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the
choose? I do not know! I am torn between the redemption of our bodies. 24 For in this hope
two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, we were saved. But hope that is seen is no
which is better by far; but it is more hope at all. Who hopes for what he already
necessary for you that I remain in the body has? 25 But if we hope for what we do not yet
(Phlp 1:22-24). have, we wait for it patiently (Rom 8:19-25).

We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to Their teaching will spread like gangrene.
be absent from the body and to be present Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus,
with the Lord (2Cor 5:8, NKJV). who have wandered away from the truth. They
say that the resurrection has already taken
So is Paul saying that if people die they go place, and they destroy the faith of some.
immediately to Heaven? No! He is telling the story Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands
from his personal perspective? If he were to die, the firm, sealed with this inscription: "The Lord
next thing he would know is being "present with the knows those who are his," and, "Everyone who
Lord". As a child, I remember wanting to go to sleep confesses the name of the Lord must turn away
early the night before a family vacation. Why? Because from wickedness" (2Tim 2:17-19).
to be asleep is to be awake the next morning—from my
perspective. But would my parents, who stayed up There are other scriptures that are sometimes
packing while I slept, say that I am already on the trip? accidentally assumed to support the idea that the dead
No. I was simply asleep awaiting the event, just like believers are in Heaven. Most of the common ones are
the dead are awaiting the return of Christ, their covered in the appendix titled Are There "Go To
resurrection and judgment. Let us continue in 2 Heaven" Verses?
Corinthians 5 (quoted above) and read the very next
two verses: What About Hell?
Therefore we make it our aim, whether present So if the Bible does not teach that we go to Heaven at
or absent, to be well pleasing to Him. For we death, what about the "other place"—Hell? Do some
must all appear before the judgment seat of people go there? Does it make sense that the righteous
Christ, that each one may receive the things are "asleep" awaiting a resurrection and a judgment,
done in the body, according to what he has while the evil go immediately to Hell where they can
done, whether good or bad (2Cor 5:9-10). still "keep up" with what is happening on earth—
however uncomfortable they might be?
Paul clearly knows that he will not be with Christ until
he is judged. This paper contains numerous scriptures The concept of "Hell" believed by many Christians is
showing that the judgment occurs just after the based on Dante Alighieri’s work, The Inferno,
resurrection. Is it possible that the resurrection has published in 1314 A.D. He described a place where
already happened? According to Paul, that was a false people were tormented in all kinds of bizarre ways for
doctrine: all eternity. Dante’s Hell had many levels, each
progressively worse as one progressed lower and
19
The creation waits in eager expectation lower—very similar to Dungeons and Dragons and
for the sons of God to be revealed. 20 For the many other mystical or occult games of today. Many of
creation was subjected to frustration, not by its Dante’s ideas were borrowed from Greek mythology
own choice, but by the will of the one who and other non-Christian teachings. There is no chapter
subjected it, in hope 21 that the creation itself or set of verses in the Bible that describes anything
will be liberated from its bondage to decay and close to Dante’s eternal torture chambers.

12
In many places, the Bible clearly states that eternal something that God frequently does. (See later section
death is the punishment for those who insist upon The Purpose of God on page *.) If a believer starts a
being wicked: ministry, God does not usually set the believer or the
ministries physically on fire just to see what will
1"
Surely the day is coming; it will burn like a happen. Nor does He "send believers to Hell" to judge
furnace. All the arrogant and every evildoer their spiritual work. See the appendix entitled Fire is a
will be stubble, and that day that is coming Symbol of Judgment for many more scriptures. Even
will set them on fire," says the Lord Almighty. the very last fire mentioned in the Bible is clearly a
"Not a root or a branch will be left to them. symbol of "final death"—the second death:
2
But for you who revere my name, the sun of
righteousness will rise with healing in its But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the
wings. And you will go out and leap like murderers, the sexually immoral, those who
calves released from the stall. 3 Then you will practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—
trample down the wicked; they will be ashes their place will be in the fiery lake of burning
under the soles of your feet on the day when I sulfur. This is the second death (Rev 21:8).
do these things," says the Lord Almighty (Mal
4:1-3). If we see fire as a symbol for judgment (not a
representation of Dante’s Inferno), then it is easier to
For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of understand the rest of the Bible. Just as we do not find
God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord any Bible references to believers who are "already in
(Rom 6:23). Heaven" or "who have gone to be with Jesus", we do
not find any references to any bad person who has
Yet the word "Hell" is in the Bible, along with other "gone to Hell" or who is "suffering for all eternity".
words like "lake of fire" and "eternal fire". How do we We do find references to those who will suffer in the
reconcile these scriptures? future.

First, it is important to realize that fire is used as a The King James Bible makes the study of "Hell"
symbol of trial and judgment in the Bible: somewhat difficult because it took three completely
separate New Testament Greek words with different
This third I will bring into the fire; I will meanings and translated all of them "Hell". By reading
refine them like silver and test them like gold. only the King James Bible, one cannot tell which
They will call on my name and I will answer original word was in a verse and what it really means.
them; I will say, ‘They are my people,’ and The NKJV, RSV, NRSV and most literal translations
they will say, ‘The Lord is our God’" (Zech do a much better job of translating different original
13:9). Greek words to different English words.

Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the The three words translated "Hell" are hades (the grave
fiery trial which is to try you, as though some or the Greek realm of the dead), Gehenna (a burning
strange thing happened to you (1Pet 4:12, garbage dump) and tartarus (a place where fallen
NKJV). angels are confined). The Bible makes no mention of
people in tartarus and it is only used one time. Hades
For no one can lay any foundation other than is used 11 times and Gehenna is used 12 times. Neither
the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. If of these two words would have conveyed the meaning
any man builds on this foundation using gold, of Dante’s Inferno to the Greeks and Jews who read
silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, his the original New Testament.
work will be shown for what it is, because the
Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed Other words in the New Testament describe places or
with fire, and the fire will test the quality of states of punishment: "everlasting fire" (or "age-lasting
each man’s work (1Cor 3:11-13). fire"), "the lake of fire", "outer darkness", "the Abyss",
etc. Some verses mention a place where there will be
It should be evident in the above three verses that the "weeping and gnashing of teeth". The common thread
fire represents a trial or testing of people. This is of all of these places (except tartarus, which is a

13
current holding place for fallen angels) is that they of Christ, it is very clear that God is concerned about
seem to be used in connection with the future and judges nations that have little to do with either.
resurrection and judgment. There is never a clear case Notice the following:
where people are said to be in such a state now. The
5
Old Testament spells out many different kinds of The Lord saw how great man’s wickedness
physical punishments and corrections. Why should we on the earth had become, and that every
expect that God would work any differently in the inclination of the thoughts of his heart was
resurrection and judgment of the world? Is it possible only evil all the time. 6 The Lord was grieved
that there are multiple kinds of correction for sinners that he had made man on the earth, and his
after they are raised from the dead? heart was filled with pain. 7 So the Lord said,
"I will wipe mankind, whom I have created,
For a rather lengthy study of the many verses that from the face of the earth—men and animals,
relate to a place of punishment, see the appendices and creatures that move along the ground, and
beginning with Verses Mentioning "Hell". From a birds of the air—for I am grieved that I have
personal standpoint, the punishment of wicked people made them." 8 But Noah found favor in the
matters little to those who are asking Christ to make eyes of the Lord (Gen 6:5-8).
them righteous. The Bible may not tell us exactly what
20
will happen to every kind of unrepentant sinner. But Then the Lord said, "The outcry against
we can know that God is just in His judgments and that Sodom and Gomorrah is so great and their sin
He takes no delight in the death of the wicked. so grievous 21 that I will go down and see if
what they have done is as bad as the outcry
And I heard the altar respond: "Yes, Lord God that has reached me. If not, I will know." 22 The
Almighty, true and just are your judgments" men turned away and went toward Sodom, but
(Rev 16:7). Abraham remained standing before the Lord. 23
Then Abraham approached him and said: "Will
Say to them, ‘As surely as I live, declares the you sweep away the righteous with the
Sovereign Lord, I take no pleasure in the wicked? 24 What if there are fifty righteous
death of the wicked, but rather that they turn people in the city? Will you really sweep it
from their ways and live (Ezk 33:11). away and not spare the place for the sake of
the fifty righteous people in it? 25 Far be it from
We can also be assured that God will eventually you to do such a thing—to kill the righteous
eliminate sorrow and death: with the wicked, treating the righteous and the
wicked alike. Far be it from you! Will not the
And I heard a loud voice from the throne Judge of all the earth do right?" 26 The Lord
saying, "Now the dwelling of God is with men, said, "If I find fifty righteous people in the city
and he will live with them. They will be his of Sodom, I will spare the whole place for their
people, and God himself will be with them and sake" (Gen 18:20-26).
be their God. He will wipe every tear from
their eyes. There will be no more death or God eventually agreed not to destroy the city if there
mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of were 10 righteous men there (Gen 18:32). God was
things has passed away" (Rev 21:3-4). concerned about justice with these sinning people who
apparently knew very little about Him. (There were not
Judgment of All Nations Historically 10 righteous men, so God destroyed the cities.)

Sometimes God works with other nations over a long

Before getting into the many Bible verses concerning period of time. He allowed the nation of the Amorites
the resurrections and judgment, we must take a step to go on sinning for hundreds of years before he gave
back and ask: "With whom is God working?" We must their land to the nation of Israel. Notice:
never forget that God created all people "in His
image"; "male and female he created them" (Gen 1:27).
In the fourth generation your [Abraham’s]
God cares for all the billions of people who have lived,
descendants will come back here [Israel], for
not just Christians and Israelites. While the majority of
the Bible is about the nation of Israel and the followers

14
 the sin of the Amorites has not yet reached its have known not to make their animals abstain from
full measure (Gen 15:16). food and water—the Bible never teaches this practice.

Many years later, this prophecy was fulfilled—the sin One final example of God dealing with a non-Israelite
of the Amorites was full and they were punished: nation is found in Jeremiah 35. The Rechabites were
not descended from Israel, but were blessed with
And the Lord drove out before us all the continuing descendants throughout history:
nations, including the Amorites, who lived in
12
the land. We too will serve the Lord, because Then came the word of the Lord to Jeremiah,
he is our God" (Josh 24:18). saying, 13 "Thus says the Lord of hosts, the
God of Israel: ‘Go and tell the men of Judah
Another famous example of God judging a nation— and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, "Will you not
and the nation listening—is Jonah and the people of receive instruction to obey My words?" says
Nineveh. The story of Jonah running away and being the Lord. 14 The words of Jonadab the son of
swallowed by a great fish is well known. But what did Rechab, which he commanded his sons, not
he preach to Nineveh? Did he tell them to come to to drink wine, are performed; for to this day
Israel’s temple to worship? Did he tell them to begin they drink none, and obey their father’s
keeping the Sabbath and other Old Testament laws? It commandment. But although I have spoken to
seems that there was little argument about what law you, rising early and speaking, you did not
was to be followed—the problem was that the obey Me. 15 I have also sent to you all My
Ninevites were doing what they of themselves knew to servants the prophets, rising up early and
be bad. Notice: sending them, saying, ‘Turn now everyone
from his evil way, amend your doings, and do
4
On the first day, Jonah started into the city. not go after other gods to serve them; then you
He proclaimed: "Forty more days and Nineveh will dwell in the land which I have given you
will be overturned." 5 The Ninevites believed and your fathers.’ But you have not inclined
God. They declared a fast, and all of them, your ear, nor obeyed Me. 16 Surely the sons of
from the greatest to the least, put on sackcloth. Jonadab the son of Rechab have performed the
6
When the news reached the king of Nineveh, commandment of their father, which he
he rose from his throne, took off his royal commanded them, but this people has not
robes, covered himself with sackcloth and sat obeyed Me."’ 17 Therefore thus says the Lord
down in the dust. 7 Then he issued a God of hosts, the God of Israel: ‘Behold, I will
proclamation in Nineveh: "By the decree of the bring on Judah and on all the inhabitants of
king and his nobles: Do not let any man or Jerusalem all the doom that I have pronounced
beast, herd or flock, taste anything; do not let against them; because I have spoken to them
them eat or drink. 8 But let man and beast be but they have not heard, and I have called to
covered with sackcloth. Let everyone call them but they have not answered.’" 18 And
urgently on God. Let them give up their evil Jeremiah said to the house of the Rechabites,
ways and their violence. 9 Who knows? God "Thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel:
may yet relent and with compassion turn from ‘Because you have obeyed the
his fierce anger so that we will not perish." commandment of Jonadab your father, and
10
When God saw what they did and how kept all his precepts and done according to
they turned from their evil ways, he had all that he commanded you, 19 therefore thus
compassion and did not bring upon them says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel:
the destruction he had threatened (Jonah "Jonadab the son of Rechab shall not lack a
3:4-10). man to stand before Me forever"’" (Jer
35:12-19,NKJV).
God could see that these people were serious about
turning from violence and wickedness. There is no Finally, when Christ was not being heeded in some of
record that Jonah preached any significant part of the the cities of Israel, He said that the Gentile (non-
Old Testament to them. If he had, the Ninevites would Israelite) cities of Tyre, Sidon and Sodom would fare
better than these Israelite people who refused to
respond to the great miracles of Christ:

15
 20
Then Jesus began to denounce the cities in death into life. 25 Truly, truly, I say to you, an
which most of his miracles had been hour is coming and now is, when the dead
performed, because they did not repent. shall hear the voice of the Son of God; and
21
"Woe to you, Korazin! Woe to you, those who hear shall live [1st resurrection].
26
Bethsaida! If the miracles that were performed For just as the Father has life in Himself,
in you had been performed in Tyre and Sidon, even so He gave to the Son also to have life in
they would have repented long ago in Himself; 27 and He gave Him authority to
sackcloth and ashes. 22 But I tell you, it will be execute judgment, because He is the Son of
more bearable for Tyre and Sidon on the day Man. 28 Do not marvel at this; for an hour is
of judgment than for you. 23 And you, coming, in which all who are in the tombs
Capernaum, will you be lifted up to the skies? shall hear His voice [2nd resurrection], 29 and
No, you will go down to the depths. If the shall come forth; those who did the good
miracles that were performed in you had been deeds to a resurrection of life, those who
performed in Sodom, it would have remained committed the evil deeds to a resurrection of
to this day. 24 But I tell you that it will be more judgment. 30 I can do nothing on My own
bearable for Sodom on the day of judgment initiative. As I hear, I judge; and My judgment
than for you" (Matt 11:20-24). is just, because I do not seek My own will, but
the will of Him who sent Me (John 5:21-30,
There are other examples of God dealing with peoples NASB).
that are not Israel or His Church. As we shall see, He
4
loves them all and judges them by what they know to I saw thrones on which were seated those
be right to do. who had been given authority to judge. And I
saw the souls of those who had been beheaded
Two Resurrections and Judgments because of their testimony for Jesus and
because of the word of God. They had not
worshiped the beast or his image and had not
The following four sections of the Bible clearly
received his mark on their foreheads or their
describe two resurrections. Some give more detail than
hands. They came to life and reigned with
others, but they are all consistent with each other. You
Christ a thousand years. 5 (The rest of the
can search the Bible from Genesis to Revelation and
dead did not come to life until the thousand
find no comparably clear or detailed text supporting
years were ended.) This is the first
the idea that the dead go to Heaven or Hell at death.
resurrection. 6 Blessed and holy are those who
have part in the first resurrection. The second
"But this I confess to you, that according to the
death has no power over them, but they will
Way which they call a sect, so I worship the
be priests of God and of Christ and will
God of my fathers, believing all things which reign with him for a thousand years. 7 When
are written in the Law and in the Prophets. "I the thousand years are over, Satan will be
have hope in God, which they themselves also released from his prison 8 and will go out to
accept, that there will be a resurrection of deceive the nations in the four corners of the
the dead, both of the just and the unjust earth—Gog and Magog—to gather them for
(Acts 24:14-15, NKJV). battle. In number they are like the sand on the
21
seashore. 9 They marched across the breadth of
For just as the Father raises the dead and the earth and surrounded the camp of God’s
gives them life, even so the Son also gives life people, the city he loves. But fire came down
to whom He wishes. 22 For not even the Father from heaven and devoured them. 10 And the
judges anyone, but He has given all judgment devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the
to the Son, 23 in order that all may honor the lake of burning sulfur, where the beast and the
Son, even as they honor the Father. He who false prophet had been thrown. They will be
does not honor the Son does not honor the tormented day and night for ever and ever.
Father who sent Him. 24 Truly, truly, I say to 11
Then I saw a great white throne and him
you, he who hears My word, and believes Him who was seated on it. Earth and sky fled from
who sent Me, has eternal life, and does not his presence, and there was no place for them.
come into judgment, but has passed out of 12
And I saw the dead, great and small,

16
 standing before the throne, and books were But someone may ask, "How are the dead
opened. Another book was opened, which is raised? With what kind of body will they
the book of life. The dead were judged come?" (1Cor 15:35.)
according to what they had done as recorded in
the books. 13 The sea gave up the dead that Since all of those in the first resurrection have already
were in it, and death and Hades gave up the be judged worthy of eternal life (the second death has
dead that were in them, and each person was no power over them), they will be raised with a
judged according to what he had done (Rev spiritual body that cannot die:
20:4-13).
So will it be with the resurrection of the dead.
Revelation 20:5 clearly shows that there will be 1000 The body that is sown is perishable, it is
years between the first and second resurrections. Christ raised imperishable... it is sown a natural
and those in the first resurrection will rule. This body, it is raised a spiritual body... (1Cor
thousand years is frequently referred to as "the 15:42,44).
Millennium" by Bible students, though that word never
appears in the Bible. There are many other biblical But those who are considered worthy of taking
prophecies that appear to refer to this time, including part in that age and in the resurrection from the
whole chapters of the Old Testament (Isa 2; 11; 61; dead will neither marry nor be given in
Mic 4; etc). It appears that everyone will be offered marriage, and they can no longer die; for
salvation during this time, and righteously judged by they are like the angels. They are God’s
Christ. However, a study of the Millennium exceeds children, since they are children of the
the scope of this paper and only one paragraph will be resurrection (Luke 20:35-36).
devoted to it here:
The Bible also contains many accounts of individuals
For hundreds of years, Bible students and would-be who were raised again to physical life (A widow’s
prophets have predicted the soon-coming return of son, 1Kngs 17:21;The son of the Shunamite woman,
Christ to the earth to set up His Millennial Kingdom 2Kngs 4:34; A man thrown into Elisha’s tomb, 2Kngs
(the Millennium). As God created the earth in six days 13:21; A little girl, Mark 5:41; A young man in a
and rested the seventh, many people have foreseen coffin, Luke 7:14; Lazarus, John 11:43; Dorcas, Acts
6000 years of man’s rule (4000 years before Christ and 9:40; Eutychus, Acts 20:10). These people continued to
2000 after) and a seventh 1000 years of Christ’s rule. If live a normal physical life and at some time later, died
we calculate from Christ’s birth, the time is already again. When Christ rose from the dead, a large number
past. If we calculate from the beginning of His ministry of other righteous people rose, too:
or from His death, we have 20 to 30 years left. But the
Bible does not say this for a certainty. Too many The tombs broke open and the bodies of many
religious groups have placed too much emphasis on the holy people who had died were raised to life.
timing of prophecy and the promise to members of the They came out of the tombs, and after Jesus’
soon return of Christ and being in His Millennial resurrection they went into the holy city and
Kingdom. It would have been much better if they appeared to many people (Matt 27:52-53).
had placed more emphasis on their daily actions for
all of which they will all be judged. Only a small The book of Ezekiel contains a very graphic
fraction of all the people who have been born thus far description of the second resurrection. Bones are first
will have a chance to live into Christ’s Millennial reassembled into bodies, then God adds back the
Kingdom. They all need to be concerned with their breath—symbolizing the spirit—the non-physical
present way of life, and the first and second component that makes physical things live.
resurrections.
1
The hand of the Lord was upon me, and he
Before we leave the subject of the two resurrections, brought me out by the Spirit of the Lord and
we might answer one question that was being raised set me in the middle of a valley; it was full of
during Paul’s time: bones. 2 He led me back and forth among them,
and I saw a great many bones on the floor of
the valley, bones that were very dry. 3 He

17
 asked me, "Son of man, can these bones live?" The Bible uses the term "first resurrection" in
I said, "O Sovereign Lord, you alone know." 4 Revelation 20, verses 5 and 6:
Then he said to me, "Prophesy to these bones
and say to them, ‘Dry bones, hear the word of I saw thrones on which were seated those who
the Lord! 5 This is what the Sovereign Lord had been given authority to judge. And I saw
says to these bones: I will make breath enter the souls of those who had been beheaded
you, and you will come to life. 6 I will attach because of their testimony for Jesus and
tendons to you and make flesh come upon you because of the word of God. They had not
and cover you with skin; I will put breath in worshiped the beast or his image and had not
you, and you will come to life. Then you will received his mark on their foreheads or their
know that I am the Lord.’" 7 So I prophesied as hands. They came to life and reigned with
I was commanded. And as I was prophesying, Christ a thousand years. (The rest of the dead
there was a noise, a rattling sound, and the did not come to life until the thousand years
bones came together, bone to bone. 8 I looked, were ended.) This is the first resurrection.
and tendons and flesh appeared on them and Blessed and holy are those who have part in
skin covered them, but there was no breath the first resurrection. The second death has
in them. 9 Then he said to me, "Prophesy to the no power over them, but they will be priests of
breath; prophesy, son of man, and say to it, God and of Christ and will reign with him for a
‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Come thousand years (Rev 20:4-6).
from the four winds, O breath, and breathe into
these slain, that they may live.’" 10 So I Even though the words "first resurrection" do not
prophesied as he commanded me, and breath appear elsewhere in the Bible, there are many other
entered them; they came to life and stood up passages that talk about a resurrection with
on their feet—a vast army (Ezk 37:1-10). characteristics like the "first resurrection" described
above:
A lot of questions can be asked about resurrections:
Will people be raised at the same age as when they 1. The people in it were redeemed by Christ.
died? What if they were old and feeble? Will they be 2. They have followed Him diligently.
made out of the very same molecules that they were 3. They will reign with Christ on Earth, serving
originally made from, or will they be different? What as kings and priests.
happens to people whose molecules were destroyed by 4. They cannot die—will be given Eternal life.
a nuclear explosion?
And they sang a new song, saying: "You
Medical science has shown that people can receive [Christ] are worthy to take the scroll, And to
blood, limb or organ transplants and still be "the same open its seals; For You were slain, And have
person". Of course God can do a perfect job of redeemed us [believers] to God by Your blood
recreating the exact DNA and cell structure of a Out of every tribe and tongue and people and
person—not like the crude transplants of medical nation, And have made us kings and priests
science. Recovering one’s same molecules is to our God; And we shall reign on the earth."
unnecessary and impossible. Many people have died (Rev 5:9-10)
and been buried, had a tree’s roots absorb some of their
molecules, had those molecules end up in the fruit of 3
Our God comes and will not be silent; a fire
the tree and had someone else eat the fruit of the tree. devours before him, and around him a tempest
Yes, many people have shared molecules throughout rages. 4 He summons the heavens above, and
history. If we can accept that God created the universe the earth, that he may judge his people: 5
and created life from dirt, cannot we accept that He can "Gather to me my consecrated ones, who made
effectively re-create a trillion people so they will "feel a covenant with me by sacrifice." [Christ’s
like themselves"? If we compare these people to the sacrifice] 6 And the heavens proclaim his
vastness of the universe, they are less than a speck of righteousness, for God himself is judge. Selah
dust. (Pslm 50:3-6).

First Resurrection

18
 Then Jesus said to his host, "When you give a what God is doing. Thousands have tried to figure out
luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends, who the 144,000 are, and have been wrong. Many who
your brothers or relatives, or your rich trusted in those prophetic interpretations were
neighbors; if you do, they may invite you back devastated. But those who have done good works
and so you will be repaid. But when you give a through the power of Christ will not be disappointed—
banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, those works will be remembered in the judgment.)
the blind, and you will be blessed. Although
15
they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at The seventh angel sounded his trumpet,
the resurrection of the righteous" (Luke and there were loud voices in heaven, which
14:12-14). said: "The kingdom of the world has become
the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and
Jesus replied, "The people of this age marry he will reign for ever and ever." 16 And the
and are given in marriage. But those who are twenty-four elders, who were seated on their
considered worthy of taking part in that age thrones before God, fell on their faces and
and in the resurrection from the dead will worshiped God, 17 saying: "We give thanks to
neither marry nor be given in marriage, and you, Lord God Almighty, the One who is and
they can no longer die; for they are like the who was, because you have taken your great
angels. They are God’s children, since they are power and have begun to reign. 18 The nations
children of the resurrection (Luke 20:34). were angry; and your wrath has come. The
time has come for judging the dead, and for
1
Then I looked, and there before me was the rewarding your servants the prophets and
Lamb, standing on Mount Zion, and with him your saints and those who reverence your
144,000 who had his name and his Father’s name, both small and great—and for
name written on their foreheads. 2 And I heard destroying those who destroy the earth." (Rev
a sound from heaven like the roar of rushing 11:15-18)
waters and like a loud peal of thunder. The
42
sound I heard was like that of harpists playing So will it be with the resurrection of the
their harps. 3 And they sang a new song before dead. The body that is sown is perishable, it is
the throne and before the four living creatures raised imperishable; 43 it is sown in dishonor, it
and the elders. No one could learn the song is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is
except the 144,000 who had been redeemed raised in power; 44 it is sown a natural body,
from the earth. 4 These are those who did not it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a
defile themselves with women [probably a natural body, there is also a spiritual body. 45
symbol for false churches], for they kept So it is written: "The first man Adam became a
themselves pure. They follow the Lamb living being"; the last Adam, a life-giving
wherever he goes. They were purchased spirit. 46 The spiritual did not come first, but
from among men and offered as firstfruits to the natural, and after that the spiritual. 47 The
God and the Lamb. 5 No lie was found in their first man was of the dust of the earth, the
mouths; they are blameless (Rev 14:1-5). second man from heaven. 48 As was the earthly
man, so are those who are of the earth; and as
These 144,000 certainly seem to have the is the man from heaven, so also are those who
characteristics of those in the first resurrection. It is are of heaven. 49 And just as we have borne the
possible that only 144,000 will be in the first likeness of the earthly man, so shall we bear
resurrection, but this scripture does not say that—it just the likeness of the man from heaven. 50 I
says that no others could learn a certain song. declare to you, brothers, that flesh and blood
Revelation 7 also mentions 144,000 plus a "great cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does
multitude". This writer is not sure which of these the perishable inherit the imperishable.
51
groups overlap—if any. Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all
sleep, but we will all be changed—52 in a flash,
(Many modern-day writings on the book of Revelation in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet.
will claim to tell you exactly who the 144,000 are—but For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be
this writer believes it is more important to do what raised imperishable, and we will be changed.
53
God tells us to do than it is to try to figure out exactly For the perishable must clothe itself with the

19
 imperishable, and the mortal with immortality. "first resurrection" (Rev 20:5-6), so these resurrections
54
When the perishable has been clothed with are not numbered—especially since only a very few
the imperishable, and the mortal with people had opportunity to be in them, anyway.
immortality, then the saying that is written will
11
come true: "Death has been swallowed up in Then I saw a great white throne and him who
victory." 55 "Where, O death, is your victory? was seated on it. Earth and sky fled from his
Where, O death, is your sting?" 56 The sting of presence, and there was no place for them. 12
death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. 57 And I saw the dead, great and small,
But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory standing before the throne, and books were
through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my opened. Another book was opened, which is
dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move the book of life. The dead were judged
you. Always give yourselves fully to the according to what they had done as
work of the Lord, because you know that recorded in the books. 13 The sea gave up the
your labor in the Lord is not in vain (1Cor dead that were in it, and death and Hades gave
15:42-58). up the dead that were in them, and each person
was judged according to what he had done. 14
From these scriptures, the nature of the first Then death and Hades were thrown into the
resurrection is fairly clear. Compare these and the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second
many other resurrection scriptures to all of the death. 15 If anyone’s name was not found
scriptures you can find that might be interpreted as written in the book of life, he was thrown into
saying "believers go to Heaven when they die". There the lake of fire (Rev 20:11-15).
is no comparison. The Bible teaches that the righteous
dead are dead—they are awaiting a resurrection. The Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied
few scriptures used to teach that "the righteous go to about these men: "See, the Lord is coming
Heaven" are mostly misunderstood—they do not teach with thousands upon thousands of his holy
that doctrine idea. The Greek philosopher Plato taught ones to judge everyone, and to convict all the
that each person has an "immortal soul" which ungodly of all the ungodly acts they have done
continues to function after death. Other pagan religions in the ungodly way, and of all the harsh words
teach that the dead are in a conscious state and still ungodly sinners have spoken against him"
trying to have an effect on the present world (some (Jude 1:14-15).
good, some bad). But the Bible clearly teaches that the
hope of the righteous is the first resurrection. The above verses clearly show that the world will be
judged at the second resurrection, and that those who
The ways in which believers are judged and whether or will not follow God will die the second death. These
not they will be in the first resurrection is covered in scriptures do not indicate how long this process will
detail beginning in the section Judgment for Believers: take. Keep reading—we will find verses that address
Both Now and Later. First, let us study the "second that question. A more pressing question might be:
resurrection" "How will God judge people who have never heard
about God, Christ or the Bible?"
Second Resurrection
11
For there is no partiality with God. 12 For as
The term "second resurrection" never actually appears many as have sinned without law will also
in the Bible, but there clearly is another resurrection perish without law, and as many as have
after the "first resurrection", so normal mathematical sinned in the law will be judged by the law 13
logic would designate the next resurrection as the (for not the hearers of the law are just in the
"second resurrection". If the "second resurrection" sight of God, but the doers of the law will be
occurs in multiple phases or parts, these parts might be justified; 14 for when Gentiles, who do not have
called the "second", "third" and "forth" resurrections. the law, by nature do the things in the law,
However, the Bible does not clearly state that there are these, although not having the law, are a law
more than two resurrections, so I use the terms "first" to themselves, 15 who show the work of the
and "second". Jesus and various other individuals were law written in their hearts, their conscience
miraculously raised from the dead before the biblical also bearing witness, and between themselves
their thoughts accusing or else excusing them)
20
 16
in the day when God will judge the secrets and they heap abuse on you. But they will have
of men by Jesus Christ, according to my to give account to him who is ready to judge
gospel (Rom 2:11-16). the living and the dead (1Pet 4:4-5).

The above scripture is a direct explanation of how God Even though the second resurrection and associated
judges people. It contains an incredible amount of judgment will affect nearly everyone who has ever
information in a small place. Notice the following lived, does everyone believe in it? No. Many people do
points contained in the above: not want to be responsible for their actions in this
life—especially ones which they have "gotten away
1. God is fair. He is not partial to those who have with". But a surprising number of people, who are not
His law or to those who do not. believers, are still interested in this topic. Notice what
2. If people sin, not having His law, they perish. Paul said to a group of Greek philosophers:
"The wages of sin is death" (Rom 6:23). But
they are not judged by the law, they will be When they heard about the resurrection of
judged by their own conscience—whether or the dead, some of them sneered, but others
not they did what they knew to be right and said, "We want to hear you again on this
whether or not they treated others as they subject" (Acts 17:32).
would like to be treated. (Slick, evil people
who convince others that they are "good" will Not every scripture about the second resurrection gives
not fare well in the judgment.) every possible detail. When Christ returns, He begins
3. To the extent that people do the things that are to rule and judge. That judgment continues for 1000
in God’s law, they benefit. In several times in years and then the second resurrection occurs (Rev 20).
the Bible that God has destroyed whole cities In the two Bible quotes, below, there is no distinction
or nations (men, women and children), it has made between the judgment in the Millennial Kingdom
been because they were totally evil (Gen 6:5-7; when Christ returns and that judgment that occurs at
Deut 2:24-34 cf. 1Kngs 21:26, etc.). the resurrection afterward.
Apparently, God destroys the children with the
parents in these situations to terminate the 5
Which is manifest evidence of the righteous
ongoing evil practices that the children would judgment of God, that you may be counted
begin to learn at birth. God will work with worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you
these children in the resurrection. also suffer; 6 since it is a righteous thing with
4. Those who know God’s law will be judged by God to repay with tribulation those who
it—they cannot be judged by some other trouble you, 7 and to give you who are troubled
standard when they know His truth. rest with us when the Lord Jesus is revealed
5. There is a day coming when God will judge from heaven with His mighty angels, 8 in
everything—even that which is secret. flaming fire taking vengeance on those who do
not know God, and on those who do not obey
Judgment is real! It is not just a "something will the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 These
happen someday" idea. The apostles frequently wrote shall be punished with everlasting destruction
about judgment as the solution to day-to-day problems: from the presence of the Lord and from the
glory of His power, 10 when He comes, in that
Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave Day, to be glorified in His saints and to be
room for God’s wrath, for it is written: "It is admired among all those who believe,
mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord because our testimony among you was
(Rom 12:19). believed (2Thes 1:5-10).

Alexander the coppersmith did me much harm. Verse 8, above, sounds like people will be punished
May the Lord repay him according to his simply for not knowing about God. The Greek word
works (2Tim 4:14, NKJV). for "know" there is eido and is translated "see" as much
as it is translated "know." Everlasting destruction will
They think it strange that you do not plunge come upon those who refuse to "see God" in the
with them into the same flood of dissipation, picture or who do not accept the Gospel of Christ.

21
 31
When the Son of Man comes in his glory, eternal fire prepared for the devil and his
and all the angels with him, he will sit on his angels. 42 For I was hungry and you gave me
throne in heavenly glory. 32 All the nations nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me
will be gathered before him, and he will nothing to drink, 43 I was a stranger and you
separate the people one from another as a did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you
shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and
He will put the sheep on his right and the goats you did not look after me." 44 They also will
on his left. 34 Then the King will say to those answer, "Lord, when did we see you hungry or
on his right, "Come, you who are blessed by thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick
my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom or in prison, and did not help you?" 45He will
prepared for you since the creation of the reply, "I tell you the truth, whatever you
world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me did not do for one of the least of these, you
something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave did not do for me." 46 Then they will go
me something to drink, I was a stranger and away to eternal punishment, but the
you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you righteous to eternal life (Matt 25:31-46).
clothed me, I was sick and you looked after
me, I was in prison and you came to visit me." We can be sure that the above scripture applies to the
37
Then the righteous will answer him, Millennial Kingdom and the second resurrection
"Lord, when did we see you hungry and because it says "all the nations will be gathered in
feed you, or thirsty and give you something verse 32—completely different than the few chosen
to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger believers of the first resurrection. Also, the righteous
and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe people had no idea that being kind to others was like
you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison being kind to Christ—if they had heard the book of
and go to visit you?" 40 The King will reply, "I Matthew read, they would not have been asking Christ
tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the question that they did here. What is the end result
the least of these brothers of mine, you did for of the second resurrection? Either eternal punishment
me." 41 Then he will say to those on his left, (no eternal punishing) or eternal life.
"Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the
Table of Bible Order of Judgments

Right now: people are being judged. Now is a judgment of this world (John 12:31, YLT).

The First Resurrection for those judged Blessed and holy are those who have part in the first resurrection. The
worthy in this present life to receive second death has no power over them... (Rev 20:6) ...Others were
eternal life. tortured and refused to be released, so that they might gain a better
resurrection (Heb 11:35).

Millennial rule of Christ and his saints: [continued from above] ...but they will be priests of God and of Christ
Judgment of those on Earth. and will reign with him for a thousand years (Rev 20:6).

The Second Resurrection of all those (The rest of the dead did not come to life until the thousand years were
who have lived before. Those who will ended.)... And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the
not follow God will undergo the "second throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is
death" the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had
done as recorded in the books. ...The lake of fire is the second death. If
anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was
thrown into the lake of fire. (Rev 20:5,12,14-15).

22
Judgment After Second Resurrection The Lord is slow to anger, abounding in love
Will Take Many Years and forgiving sin and rebellion. Yet he does
not leave the guilty unpunished; he punishes
the children for the sin of the fathers to the
We have covered several scriptures showing that those third and fourth generation (Num 14:18).
who follow God will be given eternal life and those
who do not will be given eternal punishment. Many 18
If after all this you will not listen to me, I
people assume that this is a quick decision—that Christ
will punish you for your sins seven times
will look each one in the eye, recount the significant
over. 19 I will break down your stubborn pride
events in their life and pronounce a judgment. But
and make the sky above you like iron and the
none of these scriptures give us detail on how Christ
ground beneath you like bronze. 20 Your
judges! There are many other scriptures that do! Will
strength will be spent in vain, because your
Christ take people who have never heard about Him
soil will not yield its crops, nor will the trees of
and punish them for rejecting Him? What about a
the land yield their fruit. 21 If you remain
Buddhist that heard a missionary ask him to accept
hostile toward me and refuse to listen to me, I
Jesus once when he was 22, but rejected this strange
will multiply your afflictions seven times
teaching that was different than what he had always
over, as your sins deserve. 22 I will send wild
been taught by his kind and loving parents? Will Christ
animals against you, and they will rob you of
condemn this Buddhist forever?
your children, destroy your cattle and make
you so few in number that your roads will be
We need to turn to other scriptures that tell us deserted. 23 If in spite of these things you do
specifically how God judges. He told the Pharisees: not accept my correction but continue to be
hostile toward me, 24 I myself will be hostile
...If you were blind, you would not be guilty of toward you and will afflict you for your sins
sin... (John 9:41). seven times over. 25 And I will bring the
sword upon you to avenge the breaking of the
What a person knows is very important to the manner covenant. When you withdraw into your cities,
in which they will be judged.. Christ is not eager to I will send a plague among you, and you will
condemn the world, but to save it! Notice: be given into enemy hands. 26 When I cut off
your supply of bread, ten women will be able
For God did not send his Son into the world to to bake your bread in one oven, and they will
condemn the world, but to save the world dole out the bread by weight. You will eat, but
through him (John 3:17). you will not be satisfied. 27 If in spite of this
you still do not listen to me but continue to be
I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, hostile toward me, 28 then in my anger I will be
intercession and thanksgiving be made for hostile toward you, and I myself will punish
everyone— for kings and all those in you for your sins seven times over (Lev
authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet 26:18-28).
lives in all godliness and holiness. 3 This is
good, and pleases God our Savior, 4 who This scripture goes on to list even more punishments
wants all men to be saved and to come to a that will occur for those who do not listen to God.
knowledge of the truth (1Tim 2:1-2). However, verses 40-46 of the same chapter show that
people could humble themselves at any time, confess
The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, their sin, turn to God, and He would hear them. If God
as some understand slowness. He is patient was so patient with the nation of Israel to give them
with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but His law and send them seven-fold punishments four
everyone to come to repentance (2Pet 3:9). different times hoping that they would repent and
return to it, can we believe that He will condemn others
Look at the effort to which God went to show the in an instant for disobeying laws that they never knew?
ancient Israelites their sin and to try to bring them to
repentance: There are many punishments prescribed for various
infractions against the law that God gave ancient Israel
(Ex 21-24; Lev 20, 24: Num 15; Deut 13; 19-25).

23
Serious crimes were given the death penalty, but the fear God, because you have not withheld from
vast majority of sins and mistakes were settled by me your son, your only son" (Gen 22:12).
banishment from Israel, a payment of money or some
kind of physical punishment. The purpose of all of By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place
these non-death-penalty punishments was to remind he would later receive as his inheritance,
people of the consequences of sin and, hopefully, to obeyed and went, even though he did not
teach them not to sin in the future. know where he was going (Heb 11:8).

God is not as interested in what percentage of righteous God knew that Abraham wanted to obey Him—even if
things we do in our life as He is in whether or not our it meant sacrificing His own son. God knows that he
life experience has taught us to be righteous. Notice: will accept Christ when he realizes that is necessary for
His Eternal life. God wants everyone to have a chance
12
Therefore, son of man, say to your to hear and believe:
countrymen, "The righteousness of the
righteous man will not save him when he How, then, can they call on the one they have
disobeys, and the wickedness of the wicked not believed in? And how can they believe in
man will not cause him to fall when he turns the one of whom they have not heard? And
from it. The righteous man, if he sins, will how can they hear without someone preaching
not be allowed to live because of his former to them? And how can they preach unless they
righteousness." 13 If I tell the righteous man are sent? (Rom 10:14-15).
that he will surely live, but then he trusts in his
righteousness and does evil, none of the The cow will feed with the bear, their young
righteous things he has done will be will lie down together, and the lion will eat
remembered; he will die for the evil he has straw like the ox. The infant will play near the
done. 14 And if I say to the wicked man, "You hole of the cobra, and the young child put his
will surely die," but he then turns away from hand into the viper’s nest. They will neither
his sin and does what is just and right—15 if he harm nor destroy on all my holy mountain, for
gives back what he took in pledge for a loan, the earth will be full of the knowledge of the
returns what he has stolen, follows the Lord as the waters cover the sea (Isa 11:7-9).
decrees that give life, and does no evil, he
will surely live; he will not die. 16 None of the When they see among them their children, the
sins he has committed will be remembered work of my hands, they will keep my name
against him. He has done what is just and holy; they will acknowledge the holiness of
right; he will surely live (Ezk 33:12-16). the Holy One of Jacob [Christ], and will stand
in awe of the God of Israel. Those who are
But what about those who have not accepted—even wayward in spirit will gain understanding;
heard of—Christ? There are scriptures that show that those who complain will accept instruction (Isa
people must accept Christ in order to be saved (Mark 29:23-24).
16:16; Acts 4:12; John 3:36). Let us consider Abraham
and other righteous men in the Old Testament. The The fact that Christians have not taken the Gospel to
Bible says that they will be in the Kingdom of God most of the world does not mean that God cannot save
(Luke 13:28, Heb 11), yet none of them plainly wrote most of the world—it means that Christians have not
that they would be saved because they accepted Christ done their job. Isaiah 11, above, describes the
as their Savior. There are hints about accepting Christ Millennial Kingdom and afterward—where Christ will
in some of the prophetic books, but even Christ’s make sure that His ways are known. Many scriptures
apostles did not understand how these prophecies show us that God, in his infinite wisdom, will judge the
applied to Christ—Christ had to explain the prophecies earth in His time. Here are a few:
to them. So how then, for example, will Abraham
receive eternal life if he never understood about the Rise up, O Judge of the earth; pay back to the
sacrifice of Christ? Consider these verses: proud what they deserve (Pslm 94:2).
"Do not lay a hand on the boy," he said. "Do
not do anything to him. Now I know that you
24
 God is just: He will pay back trouble to those you leave that home or town. I tell you the
who trouble you and give relief to you who are truth, it will be more bearable for Sodom
troubled, and to us as well (2Thes 1:6-7). and Gomorrah on the day of judgment than
for that town (Matt 10:14-15).
When I choose the proper time, I will judge
21
uprightly (Pslm 75:2, NKJV). "Woe to you, Korazin! Woe to you,
Bethsaida! If the miracles that were performed
O Lord, correct me, but with judgment; not in in you had been performed in Tyre and Sidon,
thine anger, lest thou bring me to nothing (Jer they would have repented long ago in
10:24, KJV). sackcloth and ashes. 22 But I tell you, it will be
more bearable for Tyre and Sidon on the
But, O Lord Almighty, you who judge day of judgment than for you. 23 And you,
righteously and test the heart and mind (Jer Capernaum, will you be lifted up to the skies?
11:20). No, you will go down to the depths. If the
miracles that were performed in you had been
What of those who hear the Gospel and do not decide performed in Sodom, it would have remained
to do anything about it? Are they automatically to this day. 24 But I tell you that it will be more
condemned in this life? They will stay "in darkness" bearable for Sodom on the day of judgment
and certainly not have a chance to be in the first than for you." 25 At that time Jesus said, "I
resurrection, but they will have to face that issue in the praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth,
resurrection at the last day: because you have hidden these things from the
wise and learned, and revealed them to little
I have come into the world as a light, so that children" (Matt 11:21-25).
no one who believes in me should stay in
darkness. "As for the person who hears my [Beware of the scribes] who are devouring the
words but does not keep them, I do not widows’ houses, and for a pretence are making
judge him. For I did not come to judge the long prayers; these shall receive more
world, but to save it. There is a judge for the abundant judgment (Mark 12:40, YLT).
one who rejects me and does not accept my 31
words; that very word which I spoke will The Queen of the South will rise at the
condemn him at the last day (John 12:46-48). judgment with the men of this generation and
condemn them; for she came from the ends of
Are there any scriptures that clearly show that the the earth to listen to Solomon’s wisdom, and
judgment will take a long time for people to be judged? now one greater than Solomon is here. 32 The
Yes. They show that some will go into the kingdom men of Nineveh will stand up at the
before others, and that some will have a "more judgment with this generation and condemn
bearable" judgment than others will. If the only it; for they repented at the preaching of Jonah,
possible sentences are "instant eternal life" or "instant and now one greater than Jonah is here (Luke
second death", how can judgment for some be "more 11:31-32).
tolerable" for some than others? Notice these scriptures
which show that much will occur during the judgment: Nothing in the Bible says that the Queen of the South
or the men of Nineveh have already been granted
...Assuredly, I say to you that tax collectors Eternal life. It is not clear that they worshipped God in
and harlots enter the kingdom of God any significant way. But they will participate in the
before you. For John came to you in the way judgment—they will condemn people who understood
of righteousness, and you did not believe him; God much better, but did not do what He said. In other
but tax collectors and harlots believed him; and cases, the Bible promises judgments that take a long
when you saw it, you did not afterward relent time.
and believe him (Matt 21:31-32, NKJV).
I warn everyone who hears the words of the
If anyone will not welcome you or listen to prophecy of this book: If anyone adds anything
your words, shake the dust off your feet when

25
 to them, God will add to him the plagues to enter and will not be able. 25 "When once the
described in this book (Rev 22:18). Master of the house has risen up and shut the
door, and you begin to stand outside and knock
If you have a Bible that shows the variant readings of at the door, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open for us,’
the different Greek manuscripts of the book of and He will answer and say to you, ‘I do not
Revelation, you will see that somebody has added a know you, where you are from,’ 26 "then you
few words here and there. (The NKJV footnotes show will begin to say, ‘We ate and drank in Your
122 discrepancies) I do not believe that Christ is just presence, and You taught in our streets.’ 27
making a threat here, but that he really will add the "But He will say, ‘I tell you I do not know you,
plagues to someone who deliberately added words in where you are from. Depart from Me, all you
the manuscript. Many of the plagues in the Book of workers of iniquity.’ 28 "There will be weeping
Revelation are months or years in duration. How can a and gnashing of teeth, when you see Abraham
person have these plagues added to him unless he has and Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the
some time to suffer with them—and hopefully repent? kingdom of God, and yourselves thrust out.
29
"They will come from the east and the west,
9
"As I looked, "thrones were set in place, and from the north and the south, and sit down in
the Ancient of Days took his seat. His clothing the kingdom of God. 30 "And indeed there are
was as white as snow; the hair of his head was last who will be first, and there are first who
white like wool. His throne was flaming with will be last" (Luke 13:23-30, NKJV).
fire, and its wheels were all ablaze. 10 A river
of fire was flowing, coming out from before Each Individual Judged by What They
him. Thousands upon thousands attended him; Individually Know
ten thousand times ten thousand stood before
him. The court was seated, and the books
Jesus said, "If you were blind, you would not
were opened. 11 "Then I continued to watch
be guilty of sin; but now that you claim you
because of the boastful words the horn was
can see, your guilt remains" (John 9:41).
speaking. I kept looking until the beast was
slain and its body destroyed and thrown into
the blazing fire. 12 (The other beasts had been If I [Christ] had not come and spoken to them,
stripped of their authority, but were allowed they would not be guilty of sin. Now,
to live for a period of time.) (Dan 7:9-12). however, they have no excuse for their sin
(John 15:22).
Whether the beasts in Daniel’s dream represent
individuals or whole groups of individuals, it shows Jesus held these Jewish leaders accountable because
that one was killed right away and the others lost their they knew the Scriptures. But if they really were blind,
authority, but were allowed to live "for a period of then they would have "no sin." People cannot be
time". The description of being destroyed in the lake of judged by "every word of God" because most have not
fire clearly matches the "second death" description in known it or understood it. Throughout all history, most
Revelation 21:8 (quoted earlier). The others were people have had no Bible teaching and very, very few
clearly allowed to live for a period of time—a time of had thorough, true Bible teaching. Some people have
judgment and correction. owned a Bible; some have not. Some have owned
many translations; some owned one. Some have had
access to many good Bible teachers; some have had
After reading these scriptures, many Christians will ask
access to few—or to poor teachers. While teachers do
the question: Why should anyone want to be a
not create truth, they are very important. Even among
Christian now if they have a chance to repent and
staunch Bible-believing Christians, much of what they
receive Eternal life later? Why do we simply not
believe they learned through a teacher—not just by
enjoy the pleasures of sin, now?
reading the scriptures themselves.
23
Then one said to Him, "Lord, are there few
Suppose someone offered to pay you for 10 years to
who are saved?" And He said to them,
24 search and find as much Bible truth as you could. You
"Strive to enter through the narrow gate [1st
could do your own study, read others books or travel to
resurrection], for many, I say to you, will seek
hear Bible teachers. You would certainly pray and ask

26
God to show you truth. At the end of 10 years, you scattered seed? 27 Well then, you should have
could either write the most important teachings of the put my money on deposit with the bankers, so
Bible yourself or designate the teachers that you had that when I returned I would have received it
found to have the best understanding of the Scriptures. back with interest. 28 ‘Take the talent from him
However you determine this body of Bible truth, and and give it to the one who has the ten talents. 29
whatever you believe it to be, do you think that most For everyone who has will be given more,
of the world throughout most of history has had any and he will have an abundance. Whoever
way to learn that truth? Certainly not! God simply does not have, even what he has will be
has not provided equal access to His Truth. taken from him. 30 And throw that worthless
servant outside, into the darkness, where there
But God has declared that the more truth a person has, will be weeping and gnashing of teeth’" (Matt
the more he is responsible for: 25:12-30).

[Jesus said:] 13 "Therefore keep watch, because Verse 29, above, is not saying that some people have
you do not know the day or the hour. 14 nothing because they were given nothing. The English
Again, it will be like a man going on a journey, verb "to have" is totally passive—a person who "has"
who called his servants and entrusted his something need not be doing anything to "have it". The
property to them. 15 To one he gave five Greek verb, (echo) is a little more active in meaning
talents of money, to another two talents, and than the English—possibly closer to "possessing".
to another one talent, each according to his Young’s literal translation tries to convey that:
ability. Then he went on his journey. 16 The
man who had received the five talents went at for to every one having shall be given, and he
once and put his money to work and gained shall have overabundance, and from him who
five more. 17 So also, the one with the two is not having, even that which he hath shall be
talents gained two more. 18 But the man who taken from him (Matt 25:29, YLT);
had received the one talent went off, dug a
hole in the ground and hid his master’s It is the one who "is not having"—is not doing
money. 19 After a long time the master of those anything to have spiritual truth—that loses whatever
servants returned and settled accounts with little spiritual truth he has.
them. 20 The man who had received the five
talents brought the other five. ‘Master,’ he The first three chapters of the book of Romans deal
said, ‘you entrusted me with five talents. See, I with the sins of all people and how God views them.
have gained five more.’ 21 His master replied, Notice what Paul says about each person in chapter
‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You two
have been faithful with a few things; I will
put you in charge of many things. Come and 5
But because of your stubbornness and your
share your master’s happiness!’ 22 The man unrepentant heart, you are storing up wrath
with the two talents also came. ‘Master,’ he against yourself for the day of God’s wrath,
said, ‘you entrusted me with two talents; see, I when his righteous judgment will be revealed.
have gained two more.’ 23 His master replied, 6
God "will give to each person according to
‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You what he has done." 7 To those who by
have been faithful with a few things; I will put persistence in doing good seek glory, honor
you in charge of many things. Come and share and immortality, he will give eternal life [1st
your master’s happiness!’ 24 Then the man who resurrection]. 8 But for those who are self-
had received the one talent came. ‘Master,’ he seeking and who reject the truth and follow
said, ‘I knew that you are a hard man, evil, there will be wrath and anger [2nd
harvesting where you have not sown and resurrection]. 9 There will be trouble and
gathering where you have not scattered seed. 25 distress for every human being who does
So I was afraid and went out and hid your evil: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile; 10
talent in the ground. See, here is what belongs but glory, honor and peace for everyone
to you.’ 26 His master replied, ‘You wicked, who does good [even in the 2nd resurrection]:
lazy servant! So you knew that I harvest where
I have not sown and gather where I have not

27
 first for the Jew, then for the Gentile (Rom David did not believe that Shimei was repentant for his
2:5-10). sin. His wise son Solomon devised a plan where
Shimei could be his own judge:
Verses 11-16 continue this theme—they have been
26
covered on page *. Every action we take in our life is Then the king sent for Shimei and said to
important—whether we know a lot of God’s way or him, "Build yourself a house in Jerusalem and
very little. live there, but do not go anywhere else. 37 The
day you leave and cross the Kidron Valley,
Many of the judgments rendered in the Bible were you can be sure you will die; your blood will
from the words of the people being judged. If, for be on your own head." 38 Shimei answered
example, a person steals from you and you condemn the king, "What you say is good. Your
the action as "wrong", those words may be quoted back servant will do as my lord the king has said."
to you if you are judged for stealing from another. And Shimei stayed in Jerusalem for a long
Notice Christ’s teaching: time. 39 But three years later, two of Shimei’s
slaves ran off to Achish son of Maacah, king
20
Then another servant came and said, "Sir, of Gath, and Shimei was told, "Your slaves are
here is your mina; I have kept it laid away in a in Gath." 40 At this, he saddled his donkey and
piece of cloth. 21 I was afraid of you, because went to Achish at Gath in search of his slaves.
you are a hard man. You take out what you did So Shimei went away and brought the slaves
not put in and reap what you did not sow." 22 back from Gath. 41 When Solomon was told
His master replied, "I will judge you by your that Shimei had gone from Jerusalem to Gath
own words, you wicked servant! You knew, and had returned, 42 the king summoned
did you, that I am a hard man, taking out what Shimei and said to him, "Did I not make you
I did not put in, and reaping what I did not swear by the Lord and warn you, ‘On the day
sow? 23 Why then didn’t you put my money on you leave to go anywhere else, you can be sure
deposit, so that when I came back, I could have you will die’? At that time you said to me,
collected it with interest?" (Luke 19:20-23). ‘What you say is good. I will obey.’ 43 Why
then did you not keep your oath to the Lord
This servant complained that the master was sinning by and obey the command I gave you?" 44 The
getting more than what was rightfully his, yet the king also said to Shimei, "You know in your
servant committed the exact same sin by refusing to heart all the wrong you did to my father
give the master what is rightfully his—his money with David. Now the Lord will repay you for
interest. We have already discussed how David was your wrongdoing. 45 But King Solomon will
judged by his own judgment that he pronounced on the be blessed, and David’s throne will remain
rich man who stole the poor man’s lamb (page *). secure before the Lord forever." 46 Then the
Later, Solomon used a similar approach to judge king gave the order to Benaiah son of
Shimei, a man who had cursed David when he was Jehoiada, and he went out and struck Shimei
fleeing from his rebellious son. down and killed him. The kingdom was now
firmly established in Solomon’s hands (1Kngs
"And remember, you have with you Shimei 2:36-46).
son of Gera, the Benjamite from Bahurim, who
called down bitter curses on me the day I went Shimei was initially glad to accept Solomon’s
to Mahanaim. When he came down to meet me punishment. If Shimei had no immediate plans to take
at the Jordan, I swore to him by the Lord: ‘I a trip out of Jerusalem, it was almost like no
will not put you to death by the sword.’ But punishment at all. He had escaped punishment during
now, do not consider him innocent. You are a the entire reign of David and it looked like he could
man of wisdom; you will know what to do to escape punishment even longer now. If Shimei
him. Bring his gray head down to the grave in believed that he was wrong for cursing David and was
blood" (1Kngs 2:8-9). truly sorry about it, he would have taken Solomon’s
words very seriously. But when he was faced with the
economic loss of a couple of slaves, he put his own
financial interests above Solomon’s decree—and lost
his life.

28
Similarly, God tells us now that there are consequences "These are the laws you are to set before them
for evil. But because these consequences do not always (Ex 21:1):
have an immediate effect, people more often seek to
escape the consequences of sin a little longer, rather When Moses went and told the people all the
than trying to stop the sin. God hopes that people will Lord’s words and laws, they responded with
see sin as He does and turn from it on their own. But if one voice, "Everything the Lord has said we
they do not, then He often gives them one last "do or will do" (Ex 24:3).
die" time of judgment. If they do not obey this time, it
is over. Shimei did not obey and he died. The people of And you shall write very clearly all the words
Nineveh (see story on page *) were given a final forty of this law on these stones you have set up"
days, but they listened, repented and lived. Shimei (Deut 27:8).
died, not because of an obscure law that he did not
quite understand, but for disobeying a judgment he God held the Israelites responsible for the physical
had clearly agreed to! laws He gave them. When one of the Jewish leaders
commanded someone to hit Paul at a trial, he let him
Another excellent example of this kind of judgment know that he was doing what he should have known
was given to King Ahab when he made a treaty with an not to do:
enemy king, Ben-Hadad, rather than killing him as
God commanded. A prophet gave the king a fictitious Then Paul said to him, "God will strike you,
story, the king gave his judgment, and the prophet you whitewashed wall! You sit there to judge
showed the king that the judgment applied to the king, me according to the law, yet you yourself
himself. violate the law by commanding that I be
38
struck!" (Acts 23:3).
Then the prophet went and stood by the road
waiting for the king [Ahab]. He disguised But we must remember that ancient Israel existed in
himself with his headband down over his eyes. some form for about 1500 years before Christ came.
39
As the king passed by, the prophet called out They could be held accountable for the physical law
to him, "Your servant went into the thick of the they had, but not for the spiritual teachings of Christ
battle, and someone came to me with a captive and His Apostles. Christ clearly stated that if His
and said, ‘Guard this man. If he is missing, it miracles had been performed even in Gentile cities,
will be your life for his life, or you must pay a they would have listened and repented. But the
talent of silver.’ 40 While your servant was millions of ancient Israelites and Gentiles who never
busy here and there, the man disappeared." heard Christ’s teaching simply are not responsible for
"That is your sentence," the king of Israel said. it:
"You have pronounced it yourself." 41 Then the
prophet quickly removed the headband from 12
I tell you, it will be more bearable on that
his eyes, and the king of Israel recognized him day for Sodom than for that town. 13 "Woe to
as one of the prophets. 42 He said to the king, you, Korazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if
"This is what the Lord says: ‘You have set free the miracles that were performed in you had
a man I had determined should die. Therefore been performed in Tyre and Sidon, they would
it is your life for his life, your people for his have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth
people’" (1Kngs 20:38-42). and ashes. 14 But it will be more bearable for
Tyre and Sidon at the judgment than for
Some people may think that God was unfair to expect you (Luke 10:12-14).
ancient Israel to obey so many laws. But His law is
tiny compared to the complex legal codes of modern At the opposite extreme, Christ will give a much more
western nations. The entire Bible can be read in a few stringent judgment to those who do have spiritual
weeks of concentrated effort. But the total number of knowledge:
code sections affecting a person living in the United
States probably cannot be read and understood in his or
...From everyone who has been given much,
her lifetime. By contrast, in ancient Israel, the people
much will be demanded; and from the one who
heard all of God’s law, they agreed to do it, and it was
written on stones where everyone could read it.

29
 has been entrusted with much, much more will of the night. 39 But understand this: If the
be asked (Luke 12:48). owner of the house had known at what hour
the thief was coming, he would not have let his
Those who need to fear the judgment of Christ are house be broken into. 40 You also must be
those who know they are doing much evil or those who ready, because the Son of Man will come at an
convince themselves that their evil is good. They will hour when you do not expect him." 41 Peter
not be able to fool Christ! asked, "Lord, are you telling this parable to
us, or to everyone?" (Luke 12:35-41).
A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse
[King David’s father, an ancestor of Christ]; Peter asked a good question. He wanted to know who
from his roots a Branch will bear fruit. The should be getting ready to meet the master. Christ did
Spirit of the Lord will rest on him—the Spirit not say that his statement applied only to apostles,
of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of ministers or some humanly-observable group of
counsel and of power, the Spirit of knowledge people. He said that the blessing applied to whoever
and of the fear of the Lord—and he will was doing certain things. Christ went on to give four
delight in the fear of the Lord. He will not categories of people and what would happen to them.
judge by what he sees with his eyes, or
decide by what he hears with his ears; but Category 1: Faithful & Wise Stewards:
with righteousness he will judge the needy,
with justice he will give decisions for the poor And the Lord said, "Who then is that faithful
of the earth. He will strike the earth with the and wise steward, whom his master will make
rod of his mouth; with the breath of his lips he ruler over his household, to give them their
will slay the wicked (Isa 11:1-4). portion of food in due season? Blessed is that
servant whom his master will find so doing
Judgment for Believers: Both Now and when he comes. Truly, I say to you that he will
Later make him ruler over all that he has" (Luke
12:42-44).
This specific subject seems to be misunderstood by
These faithful and wise stewards are promised
nearly all religious groups. The Bible clearly teaches
rulership when Christ returns. This is clearly the first
that Christians are being judged now—and, that they
resurrection. They are those through whom Christ is
will be judged later. Some, by their current way of life,
living—those who do the many things that Christ said
will be judged worthy to be in the first resurrection.
His servants would do.
Even those will still receive a kind of judgment when
Christ returns—primarily related to the rewards that
they will receive. Other things will happen to other Category 2, Unfaithful servants:
believers. Let us read the verses that explain this in
clear detail. The background is Christ explaining what But suppose the servant says to himself, ‘My
people should be doing while waiting for Christ to master is taking a long time in coming,’ and he
return: then begins to beat the menservants and
maidservants and to eat and drink and get
35
"Be dressed ready for service and keep your drunk. The master of that servant will come
lamps burning, 36 like men waiting for their on a day when he does not expect him and at
master to return from a wedding banquet, so an hour he is not aware of. He will cut him to
that when he comes and knocks they can pieces and assign him a place with the
immediately open the door for him. 37 It will be unbelievers (Luke 12:45-46).
good for those servants whose master finds
them watching when he comes. I tell you the First note that these are servants of the Master (Christ);
truth, he will dress himself to serve, will have they are not strangers or foreigners. But these
them recline at the table and will come and unfaithful servants have three problems: 1) They are
wait on them. 38 It will be good for those not doing the things that Christ said they should do. 2)
servants whose master finds them ready, They are fighting with their fellow servants—making
even if he comes in the second or third watch life difficult for other believers. 3) They have severe

30
personal sins. History is full of cases where various These four categories, as well as the various categories
Christian groups fought against each other—trying to of unbelievers are summarized on the table on page *.
gain members, money or preeminence over each other. It should not be our purpose to judge others and
Christ will certainly judge them for this. People in this assign them to a category. We should assign
category will not be in the first resurrection and will be ourselves to a category—and change if necessary.
no better off than unbelievers in the second There are times when we may need to decide to stay
resurrection. away from someone who claims to be a believer—
because they are an unacceptable influence on us or an
Category 3, Lazy Servants: unacceptable example to others. (For more on this see
the appendix titled Situations Where We Must Judge.)
That servant who knows his master’s will and It is important to make a distinction between believers
does not get ready or does not do what his who are making mistakes, and those claiming to be
master wants will be beaten with many blows believers when they are not.
(Luke 12:47).
These are some of the scriptures that describe
These servants knew what Christ told them to do, but believers who are making mistakes:
did not do it. I believe that many Christians are in this
category, today. The Bible and many Bible helps are And I, brethren, could not speak to you as to
available, but not enough believers read it and do what spiritual people but as to carnal, as to babes in
it says. These believers are not promised rulership (the Christ (1Cor 3:1, NKJV).
first resurrection), but they are promised correction. A
"beating" is a corrective punishment so that a person For anyone who eats and drinks without
will change. It makes no sense to "beat" a person, then recognizing the body of the Lord eats and
give him or her eternal life. What would the beating drinks judgment on himself. That is why
accomplish? Nor does it make sense to beat a person, many among you are weak and sick, and a
then give them the second death. It makes a lot of number of you have fallen asleep.... If anyone
sense to correct people after the second resurrection is hungry, he should eat at home, so that when
and give them time to improve. These "blows" may be you meet together it may not result in
literal blows or symbolic of other corrective judgment. And when I come I will give
punishments, but it is the corrective concept that is further directions (1Cor 11:29-30,34).
important. Many "believers" think they are
guaranteed a place in the first resurrection, but As for younger widows, do not put them on
Christ is here addressing the very issue of what will such a list. For when their sensual desires
happen to His servants, and He is saying that some will overcome their dedication to Christ, they want
need to be corrected when the Master comes. to marry. Thus they bring judgment on
themselves, because they have broken their
Category 4, Unknowing Servants: first pledge (1Tim 5:11-12).

But the one who does not know and does These are some of the scriptures that describe people
things deserving punishment will be beaten who claim to be believers, but who are not:
with few blows. From everyone who has been
given much, much will be demanded; and from Many will say to me on that day, "‘Lord, Lord,
the one who has been entrusted with much, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your
much more will be asked (Luke 12:48). name drive out demons and perform many
miracles?" Then I will tell them plainly, "I
Christ will not expect as much from the many believers never knew you. Away from me, you
who did not have Bibles to study—or who were evildoers!" (Matt 7:22-23).
deceived by false teaching that they thought to be of
God. These people are not promised a place in the first God they profess to know, and in the works
resurrection, but their correction will be much lighter they deny {Him}, being abominable, and
in the second. disobedient, and unto every good work
disapproved (Titus 1:16, YLT).

31
 For certain men whose condemnation was good, as to a faithful Creator (1Pet 4:12-19,
written about long ago have secretly slipped NKJV).
in among you. They are godless men, who
8
change the grace of our God into a license for What is more, I consider everything a loss
immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only compared to the surpassing greatness of
Sovereign and Lord (Jude 1:4). knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake
I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish,
There are indeed very many scriptures that show that that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in him,
believers are now being judged both to determine not having a righteousness of my own that
which resurrection and also to determine their comes from the law, but that which is
reward: through faith in Christ—the righteousness
that comes from God and is by faith. 10 I want
Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and to know Christ and the power of his
strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in
desires, which war against your soul. Live his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,
11
such good lives among the pagans that, though and so, somehow, to attain to the
they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see resurrection from the dead. 12 Not that I have
your good deeds and glorify God on the day he already obtained all this, or have already
visits us (1Pet 2:11-12). been made perfect, but I press on to take
hold of that for which Christ Jesus took
Since you call on a Father who judges each hold of me. 13 Brothers, I do not consider
man’s work impartially, live your lives as myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one
strangers here in reverent fear (1Pet 1:17). thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and
straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on
Not many of you should presume to be toward the goal to win the prize for which
teachers, my brothers, because you know that God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
15
we who teach will be judged more strictly All of us who are mature should take such a
(Jms 3:1). view of things. And if on some point you think
differently, that too God will make clear to
12
Beloved, do not think it strange you. 16 Only let us live up to what we have
already attained (Phlp 3:8-16).
concerning the fiery trial which is to try
you, as though some strange thing happened to
you; 13 but rejoice to the extent that you The above is obviously the first resurrection that Paul
partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His is attempting to attain, though he does not specifically
glory is revealed, you may also be glad with use the term. The same is true for the verses below:
exceeding joy. 14 If you are reproached for the 3
name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord
of glory and of God rests upon you. On their Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given
part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is us new birth into a living hope through the
glorified. 15 But let none of you suffer as a resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4
murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody and into an inheritance that can never perish,
in other people’s matters. 16 Yet if anyone spoil or fade—kept in heaven for you, 5 who
suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, through faith are shielded by God’s power
but let him glorify God in this matter. 17 For until the coming of the salvation that is
the time has come for judgment to begin at ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 In this
the house of God; and if it begins with us you greatly rejoice, though now for a little
first, what will be the end of those who do not while you may have had to suffer grief in all
obey the gospel of God? 18 Now if the kinds of trials. 7 These have come so that your
righteous one is scarcely saved, Where will the faith—of greater worth than gold, which
ungodly and the sinner appear? 19 Therefore let perishes even though refined by fire—may
those who suffer according to the will of be proved genuine and may result in praise,
God commit their souls to Him in doing glory and honor when Jesus Christ is
revealed.... 13 Therefore, prepare your minds

32
 for action; be self-controlled; set your hope come?" 36 How foolish! What you sow does
fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus not come to life unless it dies. 37 When you
Christ is revealed. 14 As obedient children, do sow, you do not plant the body that will be, but
not conform to the evil desires you had when just a seed, perhaps of wheat or of something
you lived in ignorance. 15 But just as he who else. 38 But God gives it a body as he has
called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; 16 determined, and to each kind of seed he gives
for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy." its own body. 39 All flesh is not the same: Men
17
Since you call on a Father who judges each have one kind of flesh, animals have another,
man’s work impartially, live your lives as birds another and fish another. 40 There are
strangers here in reverent fear. 18 For you know also heavenly bodies and there are earthly
that it was not with perishable things such as bodies; but the splendor of the heavenly bodies
silver or gold that you were redeemed from the is one kind, and the splendor of the earthly
empty way of life handed down to you from bodies is another. 41 The sun has one kind of
your forefathers (1Pet 1:3-8,13-18). splendor, the moon another and the stars
another; and star differs from star in splendor.
42
For no one can lay any foundation other than So will it be with the resurrection of the
the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. If dead (1Cor 15:35-42).
any man builds on this foundation using gold,
silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, his The references to the diversity of creation indicate that
work will be shown for what it is, because the the spirit world may be similarly diverse. There are
Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed literally millions of different kinds of plant and animal
with fire, and the fire will test the quality of species on the earth. Is it possible that God may reward
each man’s work. If what he has built people with thousands or millions of different kinds of
survives, he will receive his reward. If it is spiritual bodies? Before anyone answers "God
burned up, he will suffer loss; he himself wouldn’t do that", we need to answer why He made
will be saved, but only as one escaping nearly a million different species of bugs. Are bugs
through the flames (1Cor 3:11-15). more important than spiritual bodies? This author does
not have the answer to these questions, but he knows
The verse above clearly shows that a reward is separate that we should not limit God.
from salvation. People can lose their reward, but still
be "saved". Now we see but a poor reflection as in a
mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I
35
But someone may ask, "How are the dead know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I
raised? With what kind of body will they am fully known (1Cor 13:12).
Table Summarizing Various Classes of People in Judgment

Unbelievers: Who were not kind to their neighbors:

For you have spent ...Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the
enough time in the past devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was
doing what pagans Those not thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not
choose to do—living in claiming to invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in
debauchery, lust, be prison and you did not look after me (Matt 25:41-43)
drunkenness, orgies, believers...
carousing and detestable Who loved their neighbors:
idolatry. 4 They think it
strange that you do not They also will answer, "Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a
plunge with them into stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?"...but
the same flood of the righteous [will go] to eternal life (Matt 25:44,46)

33
 dissipation, and they Those who thought they are believers but were not:
heap abuse on you. 5 But
they will have to give "Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who
account to him who is does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we
ready to judge the living not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in
and the dead (1Pet 4:3). Your name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who
practice lawlessness!’" (Matt 7:21-23.)

Those who were once believers, but deliberately sinned and rejected Christ:

If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no
sacrifice for sins is left, but only a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire that will
consume the enemies of God (Heb 10:26-27).

Those who did not help feed or serve the other believers:

Bad servants of Christ are treated like unbelievers (Luke 12:45-46; Matt 24:48-51).

"But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for
Believers: him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the
sea" (Matt 18:6).
...For we will all stand
before God’s judgment Those who will help Him reign in the first resurrection:
seat. It is written: "‘As
surely as I live,’ says the So Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and he will appear a
Lord, ‘every knee will second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him (Heb
bow before me; every 9:28). (See also Luke 12:42-44; Matt 24:45-47.)
tongue will confess to
God.’" So then, each of Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied about these men: "See, the Lord is coming with
us will give an account thousands upon thousands of his holy ones to judge everyone, and to convict all the ungodly
of himself to God (Rom of all the ungodly acts they have done in the ungodly way, and of all the harsh words
14:10-12). ungodly sinners have spoken against him" (Jude 1:14-15).

For we must all appear Those who knew better and did wrong anyway:
before the judgment seat
of Christ, that each one Servants of Christ who
were not ready to rule That servant who knows his master’s will and does not get
may receive what is due ready or does not do what his master wants will be beaten
him for the things done with their master:
with many blows.... From everyone who has been given
while in the body, much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has
whether good or bad The end of Matthew 24
parallels Luke 12, but the been entrusted with much, much more will be asked (Luke
(2Cor 5:10). 12:47-48).
parallel to Luke 12:47-48
seems to be the 5 wise and 5
foolish virgins story (Matt Those who did not know what to do:
25:1-13).
But the one who does not know and does things deserving
punishment will be beaten with few blows (Luke 12:48).

34
 Effect of Various Christian "Eternal-Destiny" Doctrines If They Were True

If the doctrine at left were true, it If the doctrine at left were true, it
Various Explanations of Who
would have this affect on believers would have this affect on unbelievers
Will Receive Eternal Life
(people who believe the doctrine): (people who do not believe it):

Predestination: God determines There is no need to do good or avoid People can live their lives any way they
whether a person will be saved or sin because those predestined for want. Those not predestined for eternal
not when he or she is born (or even eternal life will have it even if they sin, life might as well take as much as they
before). Some groups tie those and those not so predestined cannot get can from others as long as they don’t
predestined to be saved to specific it no matter what good they do. People "get caught". If this doctrine were true,
races and nationalities, others who believe this spend a lifetime people would be better off not knowing
simply say that people are chosen worrying about what God has decided it—it is better to believe one’s life is
according to some method known for them. Evangelism is unimportant meaningful. God would be responsible
only to God. The effect of the because it is not possible to change for the suffering of the billions whose
belief is the same. anyone’s eternal destiny. existence is pointless.

Churchism: Those "in good Those who are not members of church
standing" with a human church To the extent that the Church teaches organizations that God accepts are
organization will be given eternal sound Biblical principles, this "forever lost". This leads people in those
life. While most organizations approach is helpful. People will "true Church" organizations to think that
theoretically teach that God is the attempt to do those things that are anything they do to get these "forever
final judge, their day-to-day actions taught as helpful to receiving eternal lost" people into their church
tells the members that the best life. However, if the church organization is acceptable. This leads to
thing they can do to receive eternal organization becomes corrupt and the breakup of friends and families, and
life is to follow the doctrines of begins to teach that "some evil is to persecution and forced conversion—
their denomination and obey their acceptable as long as it benefits the as in the Catholic inquisition. To
leaders. The Catholic Church, church organization", then members do unbelievers, this makes Christianity
some Protestant churches and evil things thinking that they are doing appear as a hypocritical political
many cult-like groups are in this good. organization, not the purveyor of truth
category. and love that Christ taught.

This doctrine makes God seem to be

This is almost like a self-elected incredibly unfair to those who never
Once Saved Always Saved: Any predestination. Once a person is saved, hear about Christ. According to it, a
person who claims Jesus as his or there is little need for continued study lifelong criminal who "accepted Christ"
her savior will have eternal life no and teaching of the Bible—they are when he was 18 (or maybe even 8) will
matter what they do afterward. saved. Unlike predestination, there is a still receive eternal life, but a kind-
This is taught by some Evangelical great need for evangelism—to get hearted Indian farmer who never heard
groups and other small groups. people to "accept Christ"—whether He of Christ but freely fed hundreds of
changes their present life or not. hungry people will have the same fate as
the wicked.

Any of the Above Doctrines This modification does not affect a

Combined with Judgment for believer’s salvation, but does affect his This modification means that what the
Unbelievers: Some teach the approach to gospel preaching. If a unbeliever does is important. It also
above doctrines, but that those who person who never heard of Christ can means that he needs an additional
were never reached with the be saved by his deeds, preaching Christ reason to come to Christianity other
Gospel can be saved if they do to every person is no longer a matter of than just "being saved".
good works now. eternal life and death.

35
 Any of the Above Doctrines
The effect of this modification makes
Combined with Judgment for the This doctrinal modification motivates
this doctrine essentially the same as the
Believer: Some teach that the "chosen" to do something with their
next one. Anyone who considers him
salvation comes by one of the life, but makes little difference for
or herself saved must still judge his or
above methods, but that even if the unbelievers. If nobody reaches them
her own life and be sure that it is
"chosen" do not show Godly fruits, with the truth, they are forever lost.
producing fruit.
they can be lost.

People strive to be like Christ because

All People Will Be Judged and No matter how little or how much Bible
they will be judged more stringently
Must Be Saved Through truth one knows, the more good they do
than those without the truth. Life is
Christ—but Can Be Saved After now, the better their life will be—now,
more joyful and meaningful when its
a Resurrection. and in the resurrection to judgment.
purpose is known.

Minimizing Our Own Judgment—Loving so that we will not be condemned with the
Our Neighbors as Ourselves world (1Cor 11:31).
8
If we claim to be without sin, we deceive
There are many scriptures that directly tell us how we
ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9 If we
can cause ourselves to either avoid judgment or be
confess our sins, he is faithful and just and
judged more leniently. It seems that we can classify
will forgive us our sins and purify us from
them into two general categories—the two great
all unrighteousness. 10 If we claim we have
commandments given by Christ:
not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and
37 his word has no place in our lives (1Jn 1:8-10).
Jesus replied: "‘Love the Lord your God
with all your heart and with all your soul and
He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit
with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and
says to the churches. He who overcomes will
greatest commandment. 39 And the second is
not be hurt at all by the second death (Rev
like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40
2:11).
All the Law and the Prophets hang on these
two commandments" (Matt 22:37-40).
"Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For
in the same way you judge others, you will
We will start with the second category first because
be judged, and with the measure you use, it
those principles are easily understood by everybody,
will be measured to you (Matt 7:1-2).
whether they know God or not. "Love God with all
your heart" will be covered in the next section. 1
You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass
judgment on someone else, for at whatever
The "love your neighbor as yourself" principle was
point you judge the other, you are
first given in the Old Testament: "Do not seek revenge
condemning yourself, because you who pass
or bear a grudge against one of your people, but love
judgment do the same things. 2 Now we know
your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord (Lev 19:18).
that God’s judgment against those who do such
It is repeated in the New Testament seven times (Matt
things is based on truth. 3 So when you, a mere
19:19; 22:39; Mark 12:31; Luke 10:27; Rom 13:9; Gal
man, pass judgment on them and yet do the
5:14; Jms 2:8). Please read these scriptures that show
same things, do you think you will escape
how we can affect our own judgment. Afterward, I will
God’s judgment? 4 Or do you show contempt
summarize their general principles.
for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and
31 patience, not realizing that God’s kindness
But if we judged ourselves, we would not leads you toward repentance? (Rom 2:1-4).
come under judgment. 32 When we are
judged by the Lord, we are being disciplined
36
2
One man’s faith allows him to eat everything, rescue godly men from trials and to hold the
but another man, whose faith is weak, eats unrighteous for the day of judgment, while
only vegetables. 3 The man who eats continuing their punishment. 10 This is
everything must not look down on him who especially true of those who follow the corrupt
does not, and the man who does not eat desire of the sinful nature and despise
everything must not condemn the man who authority. Bold and arrogant, these men are not
does, for God has accepted him. 4 Who are afraid to slander celestial beings; 11 yet even
you to judge someone else’s servant? To his angels, although they are stronger and more
own master he stands or falls. And he will powerful, do not bring slanderous
stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand. accusations against such beings in the
5
One man considers one day more sacred than presence of the Lord (2Pet 2:4-11).
another; another man considers every day
alike. Each one should be fully convinced in Don’t grumble against each other, brothers, or
his own mind. 6 He who regards one day as you will be judged. The Judge is standing at
special, does so to the Lord. He who eats meat, the door! (Jms 5:9).
eats to the Lord, for he gives thanks to God;
and he who abstains, does so to the Lord and Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is
gives thanks to God. 7 For none of us lives to noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure,
himself alone and none of us dies to himself whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if
alone. 8 If we live, we live to the Lord; and if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think
we die, we die to the Lord. So, whether we live about such things. Whatever you have
or die, we belong to the Lord. 9 For this very learned or received or heard from me, or
reason, Christ died and returned to life so that seen in me—put it into practice. And the
he might be the Lord of both the dead and the God of peace will be with you (Phlp 4:8-9).
living. 10 You, then, why do you judge your
brother? Or why do you look down on your Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he
brother? For we will all stand before God’s will lift you up. Brothers, do not slander one
judgment seat. 11 It is written: "‘As surely as I another. Anyone who speaks against his
live,’ says the Lord, ‘every knee will bow brother or judges him speaks against the law
before me; every tongue will confess to God.’" and judges it. When you judge the law, you are
12
So then, each of us will give an account of not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it.
himself to God. 13 Therefore let us stop There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one
passing judgment on one another. Instead, who is able to save and destroy. But you—who
make up your mind not to put any stumbling are you to judge your neighbor? (Jms 4:10-
block or obstacle in your brother’s way (Rom 12.)
14:2-13).
36
4
Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.
For if God did not spare angels when they 37
"Do not judge, and you will not be judged.
sinned, but sent them to hell, putting them into Do not condemn, and you will not be
gloomy dungeons to be held for judgment; 5 if condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.
he did not spare the ancient world when he 38
Give, and it will be given to you. A good
brought the flood on its ungodly people, but measure, pressed down, shaken together and
protected Noah, a preacher of righteousness, running over, will be poured into your lap. For
and seven others; 6 if he condemned the cities with the measure you use, it will be measured
of Sodom and Gomorrah by burning them to to you" (Luke 6:36-38).
ashes, and made them an example of what is
going to happen to the ungodly; 7 and if he Because judgment without mercy will be
rescued Lot, a righteous man, who was shown to anyone who has not been merciful.
distressed by the filthy lives of lawless men Mercy triumphs over judgment! (Jms 2:13).
8
(for that righteous man, living among them
day after day, was tormented in his righteous
If a king judges the poor with fairness, his
soul by the lawless deeds he saw and heard)—9
throne will always be secure (Prv 29:14).
if this is so, then the Lord knows how to

37
 "Do not judge according to appearance, but activities, so much money sent to a good cause and so
judge with righteous judgment." (John 7:24). much prayer and study. None of these things are bad in
themselves. When people think about completely
Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth dedicating their life to God, they think about extreme
will awake: some to everlasting life, others to things such as selling everything they own, giving it to
shame and everlasting contempt. Those who the poor, then walking down the street with a Bible to
are wise will shine like the brightness of the talk about God to whomever will listen.
heavens, and those who lead many to
righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever If God clearly shows you to do the latter, then you
(Dan 12:2-3). should do it. God sometimes gives unusual missions
(Ezk 4-5; Hos 2), but if He does, it will have a purpose.
I warn everyone who hears the words of the On the other hand, if God has not given you an
prophecy of this book: If anyone adds anything unusual mission and you invent one of your own, you
to them, God will add to him the plagues will probably make many people think that the God
described in this book. And if anyone takes you worship is "weird" because you changed from an
words away from this book of prophecy, God effective citizen to an ineffective preacher who now
will take away from him his share in the has to rely on handouts from others.
tree of life and in the holy city, which are
described in this book (Rev 22:18-19). Earning a living and raising a family are tasks that God
has given most of us. In the process of doing them, we
We can summarize the general principles of learn a lot and we can teach a lot to others.
minimizing our own judgment based on our Recreational, artistic, educational, and social endeavors
relationship with others: are also an important part of life where we can learn
and help others. Most people have found that life does
1. Judge ourselves—confess our sins as we find not work well if they try to do only one—only work,
them and seek forgiveness. Overcome them only play, etc. Some people live for one and fit the
through Christ. others in as necessary. For example, some people love
2. Judge others the way we would want to be their job and find just enough time for recreation and
judged—in love and mercy. Don’t judge social events to hold their health and family together.
others at all, unless they are affecting us in a Others may love their recreation or artistry, and work
way that we must judge. (There are times when primarily to support themselves and "the love of their
we need to make judgments about others. We life".
sometimes must judge our children, those who
work for us, and others for whom we may be We all have our ways of deciding what we will do: At
responsible. We also must judge whom we will times, we decide that we will work more, play more,
keep as friends and whom we will regard as take a new job, move somewhere else, take a vacation,
spiritual teachers. See the Appendix titled join a group of some kind, start a new hobby, entertain
Situations Where We Must Judge for more ourselves more or whatever. We can look at our past
information.) life and see how we have made important decisions.
3. Judge with righteous judgment. Really seek to
understand the spiritual truth of a matter, God does not want us to dedicate just "some
whether we are judging ourselves or others. percentage of our time or money" to Him, but He
4. Do not grumble or complain about others—be wants to be at the top of our priority list when we make
a "nice person to be with". our life decisions. He wants us to choose our mate,
5. Help others live righteously. jobs, friends, hobbies, and recreation in a way that will
most please and be of service to Him. If we ask, He
Minimizing Our Own Judgment—Loving will often show us what is best. Other times, He lets us
decide. We should not ask, "What is the least we have
God with All Our Heart to do to be in the first resurrection?" We should ask,
"What do we have to do to live like Christ?"
The biggest difficulty with people is that their religion
has become a clearly defined "part" of their life: So
much time at church meetings, so much time at church

38
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. 2
working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of
you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the
reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving (Col cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right
3:23-24). hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured
such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not
"If you love me, you will obey what I command (John grow weary and lose heart. 4 In your struggle against
14:15). sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding
your blood. 5 And you have forgotten that word of
Then he said to them all: "If anyone would come after encouragement that addresses you as sons: "My son,
me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, and do
and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will not lose heart when he rebukes you, 6 because the
lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it. Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes
What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, and everyone he accepts as a son." 7 Endure hardship as
yet lose or forfeit his very self? (Luke 9:23-25) discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is
not disciplined by his father? 8 If you are not
Sometimes, following Christ can bring us into very disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline), then
difficult times. Nevertheless, it is His strength that you are illegitimate children and not true sons.
9
enables us to go through those difficult times: "I can do Moreover, we have all had human fathers who
all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Phlp disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much
4:13). We should know that those difficult times may more should we submit to the Father of our spirits and
come and that they are for our good: live! 10 Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as
they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good,
I saw thrones on which were seated those who had that we may share in his holiness. 11 No discipline
been given authority to judge. And I saw the souls of seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on,
those who had been beheaded because of their however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and
testimony for Jesus and because of the word of God. peace for those who have been trained by it. 12
Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak
They had not worshiped the beast or his image and
knees. 13 "Make level paths for your feet," so that the
had not received his mark on their foreheads or
their hands. They came to life and reigned with Christ lame may not be disabled, but rather healed. 14 Make
a thousand years (Rev 20:4). every effort to live in peace with all men and to be
holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. 15
32 See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that
And what more shall I say? I do not have time to tell
no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile
about Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David,
many (Heb 12:1-15).
Samuel and the prophets, 33 who through faith
conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and gained
what was promised; who shut the mouths of lions, While the above scriptures sound quite grim, the Bible
34
quenched the fury of the flames, and escaped the does not teach that every believer will experience great
edge of the sword; whose weakness was turned to physical suffering and die a miserable death. There are
strength; and who became powerful in battle and many scriptures that indicate God sometimes protects
routed foreign armies. 35 Women received back their his people from great trouble. Here are a few:
dead, raised to life again. Others were tortured and
refused to be released, so that they might gain a Since you have kept my command to endure patiently,
better resurrection.... 39 These were all commended I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going
for their faith, yet none of them received what had been to come upon the whole world to test those who live on
promised. 40 God had planned something better for us the earth (Rev 3:10).
so that only together with us would they be made
perfect (Heb 11:32-35,39-40). Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able
to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may
1
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great be able to stand before the Son of Man (Luke 21:36).
cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that
hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let As a shepherd looks after his scattered flock when he is
with them, so will I look after my sheep. I will rescue
39
them from all the places where they were scattered on because in this world we are like him. 18 There is no
a day of clouds and darkness (Ezk 34:12). fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because
fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is
Seek the Lord, all you humble of the land, you who do not made perfect in love. 19 We love because he first
what he commands. Seek righteousness, seek humility; loved us. 20 If anyone says, "I love God," yet hates his
perhaps you will be sheltered on the day of the Lord’s brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his
anger (Zeph 2:3). brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he
has not seen. 21 And he has given us this command:
Christ clearly explained the Christian life is a Whoever loves God must also love his brother (1Jn
combination of persecution now, with some blessings 4:15-21).
now and then eternal life in the future:
The “Unpardonable Sin”
So Jesus answered and said, "Assuredly, I say to you,
there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters Sometimes people who have made a commitment to
or father or mother or wife or children or lands, for My follow God and live by His Word have so much
sake and the gospel’s, "who shall not receive a difficulty that they think they are beyond hope. They
hundredfold now in this time—houses and brothers wonder if they have committed what theologians often
and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with call the "unpardonable sin". There are scriptures that
persecutions—and in the age to come, eternal life. seem to indicate that this is possible. But if a person is
"But many who are first will be last, and the last first" still concerned about repenting, changing and obeying
(Mark 10:29-31). God, there is almost certainly still hope. Please read the
scriptures, then the comments at the end.
Is it fair that some believers are persecuted greatly and
others live a long, relatively peaceful life? Christ If anyone sees his brother commit a sin that does not
answered that question: lead to death, he should pray and God will give him
life. I refer to those whose sin does not lead to death.
18
"I [Jesus] tell you the truth, when you [Peter] were There is a sin that leads to death. I am not saying
younger you dressed yourself and went where you that he should pray about that (1Jn 5:16).
wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your
hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have
where you do not want to go." 19 Jesus said this to received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for
indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify sins is left, but only a fearful expectation of judgment
God. Then he said to him, "Follow me!" 20 Peter turned and of raging fire that will consume the enemies of
and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was God (Heb 10:26-27).
following them. (This was the one who had leaned
back against Jesus at the supper and had said, "Lord, It is impossible for those who have once been
who is going to betray you?") 21 When Peter saw him, enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who
he asked, "Lord, what about him?" 22 Jesus answered, have shared in the Holy Spirit, who have tasted the
"If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is goodness of the word of God and the powers of the
that to you? You must follow me" (John 21:18-22). coming age, if they fall away, to be brought back to
repentance, because to their loss they are crucifying
We do not need to worry much about Christ’s plans for the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to
others. We need to seek His plan for our own life and public disgrace (Heb 6:4-6).
to live it boldly. If we ask Christ for His perfect love,
we will not fear: If they have escaped the corruption of the world by
knowing our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and are
15
If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, again entangled in it and overcome, they are worse
God lives in him and he in God. 16 And so we know off at the end than they were at the beginning. It would
and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. have been better for them not to have known the
Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him. 17 way of righteousness, than to have known it and then
In this way, love is made complete among us so that to turn their backs on the sacred command that was
we will have confidence on the day of judgment, passed on to them. Of them the proverbs are true: "A

40
dog returns to its vomit," and, "A sow that is washed a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but
goes back to her wallowing in the mud" (2Pet 2:20-22). anyone who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will
not be forgiven. 11 When you are brought before
22
Then they brought him a demon-possessed man who synagogues, rulers and authorities, do not worry about
was blind and mute, and Jesus healed him, so that he how you will defend yourselves or what you will say,
12
could both talk and see. 23 All the people were for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what
astonished and said, "Could this be the Son of David?" you should say" (Luke 12:1-12).
24
But when the Pharisees heard this, they said, "It
is only by Beelzebub, the prince of demons, that this It seems that God does not forgive those who
fellow drives out demons." 25 Jesus knew their continually, willfully sin after they have accepted
thoughts and said to them, "Every kingdom divided Christ’s sacrifice, and those who knowingly attribute
against itself will be ruined, and every city or the work of the Holy Spirit to Satan. It is hypocritical
household divided against itself will not stand. 26 If people who know much about God and still sin who
Satan drives out Satan, he is divided against himself. are in danger of committing the "unpardonable sin",
How then can his kingdom stand? 27 And if I drive out not those who are weak or know little about God. The
demons by Beelzebub, by whom do your people drive only people specifically mentioned as being in danger
them out? So then, they will be your judges. 28 But if I of the "unpardonable sin" in the Bible are the religious
drive out demons by the Spirit of God, then the leaders of Jesus’ day. These leaders were not
kingdom of God has come upon you. 29 Or again, how agonizing over the sins they had committed wondering
can anyone enter a strong man’s house and carry off if they could possibly be made worthy some day—they
his possessions unless he first ties up the strong man? thought they were righteous! A person who recognizes
Then he can rob his house. 30 He who is not with me is that he or she is sinning and need to repent has half the
against me, and he who does not gather with me battle won. The rest of the battle is realizing they must
scatters. 31 And so I tell you, every sin and blasphemy then not fail to go to God (again!), in humility, and
will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the ask for mercy and forgiveness:
Spirit will not be forgiven. 32 Anyone who speaks a
10
word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a
anyone who speaks against the Holy Spirit will not Pharisee [who considered himself righteous] and the
be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come" other a tax collector. 11 The Pharisee stood up and
(Matt 12:22-32). prayed about himself: "God, I thank you that I am not
like other men—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or
1
Meanwhile, when a crowd of many thousands had even like this tax collector. 12 I fast twice a week and
gathered, so that they were trampling on one another, give a tenth of all I get." 13 But the tax collector stood
Jesus began to speak first to his disciples, saying: "Be at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but
on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees, beat his breast and said, "God, have mercy on me, a
which is hypocrisy. 2 There is nothing concealed that sinner." 14 I tell you that this man, rather than the
will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made other, went home justified before God. For everyone
known. 3 What you have said in the dark will be who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who
heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered humbles himself will be exalted (Luke 18:10-14).
in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed
from the roofs. 4 I tell you, my friends, do not be The Purpose of God
afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do
no more. 5 But I will show you whom you should fear:
It is probably only natural for people to ask: "Why is
Fear him who, after the killing of the body, has power
God doing what He is doing?" Why has He put man on
to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him. 6 Are
the earth, given Him the ability to reproduce and make
not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of
billions of people, yet allowed most of them to live out
them is forgotten by God. 7 Indeed, the very hairs of
their entire lives with little or no understanding of
your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are
God? Why does He allow some people to make other
worth more than many sparrows. 8 I tell you, whoever
people suffer greatly? Why does He give his truth to a
acknowledges me before men, the Son of Man will
few people and expect them to live righteous lives
also acknowledge him before the angels of God. 9
amid a largely sinful world? Why did a perfect God
But he who disowns me before men will be disowned
create sin-prone human beings in the first place?
before the angels of God. 10 And everyone who speaks

41
A thorough study of that subject in the Bible could fill gods" (gods you have not known) "and let us worship
a book by itself. But we can see the basic answer in them," you must not listen to the words of that prophet
just two short passages: or dreamer. The Lord your God is testing you to find
out whether you love him with all your heart and
How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, with all your soul. (Deut 13:1-3).
that we should be called children of God! And that is
what we are! The reason the world does not know us is Test me, O Lord, and try me, examine my heart and
that it did not know him. Dear friends, now we are my mind (Pslm 26:2).
children of God, and what we will be has not yet been
made known. But we know that when he appears, Oh, let the wickedness of the wicked come to an end,
we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. But establish the just; For the righteous God tests the
Everyone who has this hope in him purifies himself, hearts and minds (Pslm 7:9, NKJV).
just as he is pure (1Jn 3:1-3).
The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold,
And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Now But the Lord tests the hearts (Prv 17:3, NKJV).
the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live
with them. They will be his people, and God himself "I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind,
will be with them and be their God (Rev 21:3). to reward a man according to his conduct, according
to what his deeds deserve" (Jer 17:10).
God wants children to live with Him! Why do human
couples, who have a nice house and a comfortable But, O Lord Almighty, you who judge righteously
income, decide to have children? Children are a lot of and test the heart and mind, let me see your
work. They cost a lot of money and may mess up a vengeance upon them, for to you I have committed my
nice house! But rearing children is in many ways the cause (Jer 11:20).
ultimate creative act. They are somewhat like their
parents, yet different—a similar, yet separately existing O Lord Almighty, you who examine the righteous
entity. Parents hope their children will like and honor and probe the heart and mind, let me see your
them; they hope they will do something worthwhile vengeance upon them, for to you I have committed my
with their lives. cause (Jer 20:12).

So it is with God and His children (us). But God has This same Hezekiah also stopped the water outlet of
something even more important to deal with than Upper Gihon, and brought the water by tunnel to the
human parents do. God gives eternal life to His west side of the City of David. Hezekiah prospered in
children. God does not want to create a child that will all his works. 31 However, regarding the ambassadors
be miserable and make others miserable forever. He of the princes of Babylon, whom they sent to him to
uses this physical (capable of dying) existence to test inquire about the wonder that was done in the land,
us so He can know what we are like and what we will God withdrew from him, in order to test him, that
do in many different situations: He might know all that was in his heart (2Chr 32:30-
31, NKJV).
Some time later God tested Abraham. He said to him,
"Abraham!" "Here I am," he replied (Gen 22:1). Because you know that the testing of your faith
develops perseverance (Jms 1:3).
Remember how the Lord your God led you all the way
in the desert these forty years, to humble you and to That the trial of your faith, being much more precious
test you in order to know what was in your heart, than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire,
whether or not you would keep his commands (Deut might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the
8:2). appearing of Jesus Christ (1Pet 1:7, KJV).

If a prophet, or one who foretells by dreams, appears I will strike her children dead. Then all the churches
among you and announces to you a miraculous sign or will know that I am he who searches hearts and
wonder, and if the sign or wonder of which he has minds, and I will repay each of you according to
spoken takes place, and he says, "Let us follow other your deeds (Rev 2:23).

42
Before writing this paper, I was unaware that there For through the law I died to the law so that I might
were so many verses explaining that God tests us. It live for God. I have been crucified with Christ and I no
seems that people fit somewhere into one of four longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the
general categories: body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved
me and gave himself for me. (Gal 2:19-20).
• People who cannot or will not live a righteous life in
any environment. Nevertheless, it falls our lot to judge ourselves—to
look for those works in ourselves and to ask Christ to
• People who can live a righteous life if others around put them in us.
them are righteous.
I [the apostle Paul] know how to be abased, and I know
• People who can live a righteous life even though how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have
others around them are openly sinning. learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to
abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through
Christ who strengthens me (Phlp 4:12-13).
• People who not only live a righteous life while
others around them are sinning, but can take abuse
from evil people and still love them, serve them and And my God will meet all your needs according to his
encourage them to live righteously. glorious riches in Christ Jesus (Phlp 4:19).

Christ was the ultimate example of "category 4". He Dear friends, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have
lived a perfect life, taught truth, and continually helped confidence before God and receive from him
others even though He was resisted by Satan, the anything we ask, because we obey his commands and
government of His day and even His own followers. do what pleases him. And this is his command: to
Obviously, there are people who may fit between believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, and to
categories 2 and 3—some may be able to remain love one another as he commanded us (1Jn 3:21-23).
righteous in the face of some kinds of sins, but not
others. Similarly, some people will fit between Keep your lives free from the love of money and be
categories 3 and 4—some can handle more abuse than content with what you have, because God has said,
others, and some can be of more service than others. "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." So
we say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will
In general, it seems that God wants category 4 (and not be afraid. What can man do to me?" (Heb 13:5-6)
maybe some 3) people in the first resurrection so they
can help to judge and teach the others during the For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit
Millennial Kingdom and final judgment. The rest of of power, of love and of self-discipline (2Tim 1:7).
category 3 and 2 people can be given eternal life in the
second resurrection. Category 1 people, sadly, can only Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for
be given eternal destruction. each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a
righteous man is powerful and effective (Jms 5:16).
(You may also wish to read the Appendix, Why Does
God Allow People to Believe So Many Different I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be
Things?) enlightened in order that you may know the hope to
which he has called you, the riches of his glorious
God Provides the Strength We Need inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably
great power for us who believe. That power is like
the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in
Much of this paper speaks of what God expects Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated
believers to do—indeed, much of the New Testament him at his right hand in the heavenly realms (Eph 1:18-
speaks about what a believer should do. As we stated at 20).
the beginning, this paper is not teaching "salvation by
our own works", but salvation by letting Christ do His
We all go through stages in our lives when we either
works through us.
begin a new sin or we see an old sin clearly for the first
time. The sin may overcome us for a while, before we

43
begin to seek God to overcome the sin. After the sin is who hear the law who are righteous in God’s sight, but
overcome by the power of God, there may be good it is those who obey the law who will be declared
times—when we feel good and a lot is accomplished. righteous" (Rom 2:13).
Then a new trial or sin comes along and the cycle
repeats. The important thing is that we have cycles of For scripture references, please see the appropriate
overcoming, not cycles of defeat. The formula is the sections of the paper. To summarize as briefly as
same, whether we are first accepting Christ’s possible:
forgiveness, or have done so long ago:
• The traditional idea that "people go to either Heaven
• See our sin. "Everyone who sins breaks the law; in or Hell when they die" is not in the Bible. Everyone
fact, sin is lawlessness" (1Jn 3:4). "For all have sinned who has died is awaiting a resurrection from the dead
and fall short of the glory of God" (Rom 3:23). and a judgment at that time.

• Repent, be baptized and receive the holy spirit. • Those that have done much evil will be judged and
"Peter replied, ‘Repent and be baptized, every one of punished more severely than those who have done
you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of little—whether they are defying the laws of the Bible
your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy or simply their own understanding of right and wrong.
Spirit’" (Acts 2:38).
• Those who know they are doing evil will be judged
• Continually learn God’s way. "...Man does not live more severely than those who did it in ignorance.
on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the
mouth of God" (Matt 4:4). • Those that have judged others harshly will be
harshly judged.
• Live our life for God. "In the same way, faith by
itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. But • Those who have done good works will be rewarded
someone will say, ‘You have faith; I have deeds.’ for them, whether they know about God or not.
Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you
my faith by what I do" (James 2:17-18).
• Christ offers forgiveness for all sins, and grants it for
sins that we repent of. But those who believe in Him
• Stay in contact with God. "Be joyful always; pray may die not knowing all of their sins or not having
continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this repented of them. Believers who have not learned
is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus" (1Thes 5:16-18). enough, or have not done what Christ wanted them to
do will receive additional correction in the Millennial
• Stay in contact with other believers. "Let us not Kingdom or after the second resurrection. They may
give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of receive eternal life at that time.
doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the
more as you see the Day approaching" (Heb 10:25). • Those judged more righteous will be in the first
resurrection and cannot die the second death. To be in
• Endure till the end. "He will keep you strong to the the first resurrection, we must dedicate our entire life
end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our to God now, and learn to judge ourselves with God’s
Lord Jesus Christ" (1Cor 1:8). righteous judgment.

Summary • Christ wants to save everyone. He will do His good

works through us if we ask Him and let Him. He will
There is a tendency for people to want to believe that not cast away anyone who comes to Him, but He will
God is reserving a "special place" for them because not force anyone to obey him. Those who insist on
they "claim Jesus", because they are a member of the rejecting Him will ultimately die the second death—be
"right" church group or because they believe the "true" destroyed forever.
doctrines. Romans 2:11-16 shows that it is better to
believe the right doctrine than false doctrine, but just • Exactly what will happen to each person in regard to
knowing the truth is not enough. "For it is not those judgment, correction, punishment and reward is not

44
completely spelled out in the Bible. God is clearly not The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear
pleased with people who try to do as little as possible God, and keep his commandments; for that is
in this life, but "just enough" to escape the second the whole duty of everyone. For God will bring
death. every deed into judgment, including every
secret thing, whether good or evil (Eccl 12:13-
• The purpose of God is to test and to know the hearts 14, NRSV).
of people while they are physical—before giving them
Eternal life. After this I heard what sounded like the roar of
a great multitude in heaven shouting:
He has showed you, O man, what is good. And "Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power
what does the Lord require of you? To act belong to our God, for true and just are his
justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly judgments... (Rev 19:1-2).
with your God (Mic 6:8).

Appendices
The appendices cover specific issues and do not necessarily need to be read in order. They were
published several months after the original article. The first two appendices contain some significant
new information which should have been in the main section.

Judgment After Second Resurrection sequence" ("first", protos, Strong’s #4413 and "last",
Will Take Many Years (continued) eschatos, Strong’s #2078). Looking through a
concordance will show that this is their common usage.
The subject in Luke 13 (see entire quote on page *) is
This is a continuation of the original section on this. "when will people go into the kingdom of God?"
An important concept was left out. that section ended We find this same statement at the end of another
with the following verse: discussion about the kingdom of God:
"And indeed there are last who will be first, 25
When the disciples heard this, they were
and there are first who will be last" (Luke greatly astonished and asked, "Who then can
13:30, NKJV). be saved?" 26 Jesus looked at them and said,
"With man this is impossible, but with God all
This verse is frequently quoted to show that "there are things are possible." 27 Peter answered him,
people who think they are important that are not, and "We have left everything to follow you! What
people who think they are not important, who are." then will there be for us?" 28 Jesus said to them,
This is an understandable interpretation as the verse is "I tell you the truth, at the renewal of all
similar to this one: "Sitting down, Jesus called the things, when the Son of Man sits on his
Twelve and said, ‘If anyone wants to be first, he must glorious throne, you who have followed me
be the very last, and the servant of all’" (Mark 9:33). will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the
The context is clearly a discussion of humility among twelve tribes of Israel. 29 And everyone who
brethren; the phrase "servant of all" is added here, has left houses or brothers or sisters or father
though it is not found in the other scriptures that talk or mother or children or fields for my sake will
about people being "first" and "last". receive a hundred times as much and will
inherit eternal life. 30 But many who are first
Nevertheless, the emphasis on importance and will be last, and many who are last will be
greatness does not necessarily belong in Luke 13:30 first (Matt 19:25-30—Mark 10:26-31 is
and the other scriptures below. The primary meaning similar).
of the Greek words is "first" and "last" in "time

45
Another valuable parable about eternal life in the kingdom than those who accomplished less but are
Kingdom of God shows that people will enter into it simply "grateful to be there". The attitude of those who
from a diversity of backgrounds. will dwell with Christ forever is one of joy for anyone
who repents and comes to Him, no matter how little
1
For the kingdom of heaven is like a they may be or how little good they may have done
landowner who went out early in the morning (Luke 15:7). Those who do not understand that will
to hire men to work in his vineyard. 2 He have to come into the Kingdom later—after they have
agreed to pay them a denarius [symbolizing learned it.
eternal life] for the day and sent them into his
vineyard. 3 About the third hour he went out Scriptures About Punishment for Sin
and saw others standing in the marketplace
doing nothing. 4 He told them, "You also go An incredible variety of thought exists about the kind
and work in my vineyard, and I will pay you of punishment God will give in the judgment. Some
whatever is right." 5 So they went. He went out believe He will make people suffer in "hell" forever
again about the sixth hour and the ninth hour simply because they died never having heard about
and did the same thing. 6 About the eleventh Christ. Others believe that there will be no punishment
hour he went out and found still others at all in the afterlife—some will say "yes" to Christ and
standing around. He asked them, "Why have immediately be given Eternal life, others will die
you been standing here all day long doing forever. But the Bible says a lot about punishment in
nothing?"’ 7 "Because no one has hired us," the after life—even "torment". The "many stripes"
they answered. "He said to them, "You also go and "few stripes" in Luke 12:42-49 have been covered
and work in my vineyard." 8 When evening extensively in previous sections. But there are many
came, the owner of the vineyard said to his other verses that show what God intends to do.
foreman, "Call the workers and pay them their
wages, beginning with the last ones hired
The New Testament contains a lot of different Greek
and going on to the first." ["first" and
words for "punishment", each with a slightly different
"last" are clearly a time sequence]. 9 The
meaning. This makes me think that the way God will
workers who were hired about the eleventh
judge the world is indeed complex. Most Bible
hour came and each received a denarius. 10 So
translations do not translate the Greek words regarding
when those came who were hired first, they
punishment consistently: one Greek word is translated
expected to receive more. But each one of
to several different English words, and in other places
them also received a denarius. 11 When they
several different Greek words are translated to the
received it, they began to grumble against the
same English word.
landowner. 12 "These men who were hired last
worked only one hour," they said, "and you
have made them equal to us who have borne Let us start with this passage.
the burden of the work and the heat of the 6
day." 13 But he answered one of them, "Friend, Since it is a righteous thing with God to repay
I am not being unfair to you. Didn’t you agree with tribulation those who trouble you, 7 and to
to work for a denarius? 14 Take your pay and give you who are troubled rest with us when
go. I want to give the man who was hired last the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven with
the same as I gave you. 15 Don’t I have the His mighty angels, 8 in flaming fire taking
right to do what I want with my own money? vengeance on those who do not know God,
Or are you envious because I am generous?" and on those who do not obey the gospel of
16
So the last will be first, and the first will be our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 These shall be
last (Matt 20:1-16). punished with everlasting destruction from the
presence of the Lord and from the glory of His
Rather than being thankful that these last workers power (2Thes 1:6-9).
received a day’s pay for their families, the all-day
workers were envious that they did not receive more. The Greek word for "taking vengeance" is ekdikesis
The lesson of the parable is that if someone is envious (Strong’s #1557), meaning to take vengeance or to
of others who apparently did not "work as hard" to revenge—doing something to somebody because of
receive eternal life, they may take longer to get into the

46
what they did to you. This word is used for situations and asked for a sentence against him (Acts
among humans: 25:15, NRSV).

He saw one of them being mistreated by an Sodom and Gomorrah, too, and the
Egyptian, so he went to his defense and neighbouring towns, who with the same sexual
avenged him by killing the Egyptian (Acts immorality pursued unnatural lusts, are put
7:24). before us as an example since they are paying
the penalty of eternal fire (Jude 1:7, NJB).
Or unto governors, as sent by him for
vengeance on evil-doers and for praise to them Another Greek word for punishment is the verb
that do well (1Pet 2:14, ASV). timoreo (Strong’s #5097) and the corresponding noun
timoria (Strong’s #5098). They describe the action of a
Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather person who serves as a guardian to make sure that a
give place to wrath; for it is written, wrong was righted. Most translations simply say
"Vengeance is Mine, I will repay," says the "punish", and the "righting of a wrong" aspect of this
Lord (Rom 12:19, NKJV). word is lost. Paul thought he was fulfilling this when
he persecuted Christians for their belief. God will serve
It is used even more often to show that God will take in that role toward those who knowingly reject Christ.
revenge on those who sin—not because He likes to see
others suffer, but because they need to understand that "And I punished them often in every
their sin was wrong: synagogue and compelled them to blaspheme;
and being exceedingly enraged against them, I
And shall God not avenge His own elect who persecuted them even to foreign cities (Acts
cry out day and night to Him, though He bears 26:11, NKJV).
long with them? I tell you that He will avenge
them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Anyone who has rejected Moses’ law dies
Man comes, will He really find faith on the without mercy on the testimony of two or three
earth? (Luke 18:7-8, NKJV.) witnesses. Of how much worse punishment,
do you suppose, will he be thought worthy
For these are the days of vengeance, that all who has trampled the Son of God underfoot,
things which are written may be fulfilled (Luke counted the blood of the covenant by which he
21:22, NKJV). was sanctified a common thing, and insulted
the Spirit of grace? (Heb 10:28-29, NKJV)
And they cried with a loud voice, saying,
"How long, O Lord, holy and true, until You Yet another Greek word for punishment should convey
judge and avenge our blood on those who the idea of correction, but it is lost in translation. The
dwell on the earth?" (Rev 6:10, NKJV.) Greek kolazo (Strong’s 2849) literally means "to
prune" such as one might do to a tree or bird’s wings.
"For true and righteous are His judgments, Even though it is sometimes used for a punishment that
because He has judged the great harlot who results in death, it is always used in a corrective
corrupted the earth with her fornication; and sense—a punishment to stop something that the
He has avenged on her the blood of His "punisher" does not want done. The book of
servants shed by her" (Rev 19:2, NKJV). Maccabees in the Greek Septuagint was translated in
the same general timeframe as the writing of the New
The Greek word for "punishment" used in Testament. The word kolazo is used several times in
1 Thessalonians 1:9 (the first quotation in this section) it—we can see an example of what it refers to a
is dike (Strong’s #1349) which is a legal term for a corrective type of punishment here:
sentence against someone. It is illustrated here:
For the law prevails even over affection for
When I was in Jerusalem, the chief priests and parents, so that virtue is not abandoned for
the elders of the Jews informed me about him their sakes. It is superior to love for one’s wife,
so that one rebukes her when she breaks the

47
 law. It takes precedence over love for children, not have put it in the Bible if He did not want us to
so that one punishes [corrects] them for think about it. Some translations actually use the word
misdeeds (4 Maccabees 2:10-12). "torture", but that has a strictly negative meaning in
English. The Greek words basanizo (Strong’s #928–
It is also used in the New Testament when the leaders verb) and basanismos (Strong’s #929–noun) came
in Jerusalem tried to stop the Apostles from preaching: from the use of a touchstone to test molten metals for
purity. These words deal with a purposeful ordeal,
After threatening them again, they let them go, more than arbitrary pain or punishment. Notice some
finding no way to punish [correct] them of the uses in Scripture:
because of the people, for all of them praised
God for what had happened (Acts 4:21, Saying, "Lord, my servant is lying at home
NRSV). paralyzed, dreadfully tormented" (Matt 8:6,
NKJV)
The leaders certainly knew ways to punish the
apostles—they could put them in jail or beat them, but Then being with child, she cried out in labor
they could not find a way to correct them—a way to and in pain [torment] to give birth (Rev 12:2,
stop them from working miracles and preaching about NKJV).
Christ.
But by this time the boat, battered [tormented]
Finally, this same word, kolazo, is used to describe by the waves, was far from the land, for the
what God will do on the day of judgment. Translations wind was against them (Matt 14:24, NRSV).
vary quite a bit as to meaning and order of words, but
Darby seems to have it correct. Darby uses braces {} And he saw them harassed [tormented] in the
for words that were not in the original Greek. rowing, for the wind was against them, and
about the fourth watch of the night he doth
{the} Lord knows {how} to deliver the godly come to them walking on the sea, and wished
out of trial, and to keep {the} unjust to {the} to pass by them (Mark 6:48, YLT).
day of judgment {to be} punished [corrected]
(2Pet 2:9, Darby). And they were not given authority to kill them,
but to torment them for five months. Their
The noun form of kolazo ("to punish for correction") is torment was like the torment of a scorpion
kolasis (Strong’s #2851), meaning "corrective when it strikes a man (Rev 9:5, NKJV).
punishment". It is used twice in the New Testament:
And delivered righteous Lot, who was
And these [that would not serve others] shall oppressed by the filthy conduct of the wicked
go away to punishment [correction] age- (for that righteous man, dwelling among them,
during, but the righteous to life age-during tormented his righteous soul from day to day
(Matt 25:46, YLT). by seeing and hearing their lawless deeds)
(2Pet 2:7-8, NKJV).
There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts
out fear; for fear has to do with punishment And the inhabitants of the earth will gloat over
[correction], and whoever fears has not them and celebrate and exchange presents,
reached perfection in love (1Jn 4:18, NRSV). because these two prophets had been a
torment to the inhabitants of the earth (Rev
These verses show that corrective punishment will be 11:10, NRSV).
given to those who do not follow God. Fear comes
from knowing that one is "not right with God"— From the last two verses, above, we can see that
indeed, correction is what is needed! "torment" can be mental as well as physical. Torment
also applies to demons:
The last pair of Greek words in this section have to do
with torment—an arduous, difficult ordeal. This And he cried out with a loud voice and said,
may not be a fun thing to think about, but God would "What have I to do with You, Jesus, Son of the

48
 Most High God? I implore You by God that worshipped the beast". Young’s Literal Translation
You do not torment me" (Mark 5:7, NKJV— has it even more clearly:
Luke 8:28 is similar)
And the smoke of their torment doth go up to
And suddenly they cried out, saying, "What ages of ages; and they have no rest day and
have we to do with You, Jesus, You Son of night, who are bowing before the beast and his
God? Have You come here to torment us image, also if any doth receive the mark of his
before the time?" (Matt 8:29, NKJV) name (Rev 14;11, YLT).

The verse immediately above seems to indicate that the This shows that the torment of those who accept the
demon knew of a time of torment coming in the mark and follow the Beast will not "have it made", but
future—and was complaining about it coming too will be miserable "day and night" because of their
soon. decision. These same people have additional trials and
opportunities to repent described in chapter 16. It
With this background, it is much easier to understand makes no sense for a person to "be in Hell forever" in
one of the verses commonly used to "prove" that there one chapter, then go on to be a person on the earth in
is a place of "eternal torture": Revelation 14:11. Let us the next chapter. Why, then, does verse 11 use the
read the verse in context: expression "the smoke of their torment rises for ever
and ever"? Consider this story:
9
A third angel followed them and said in a
loud voice: "If anyone worships the beast and "The truck was right in front of me, so to avoid hitting
his image and receives his mark on the it I drove into the ditch. The car turned over and I was
forehead or on the hand, 10 he, too, will drink upside down, still being held by my seatbelt. How do I
of the wine of God’s fury, which has been unbuckle a seatbelt while I am hanging by it? I began
poured full strength into the cup of his wrath. to smell gasoline and I became frantic. It took me
He will be tormented with burning sulfur in forever to get the belt undone, but I finally did and then
the presence of the holy angels and of the crawled out the window just before the vehicle burst
Lamb. 11 And the smoke of their torment into flame."
rises for ever and ever. There is no rest day or
night for those who worship the beast and his The above story is perfectly correct English. The word
image, or for anyone who receives the mark of "forever" here is used as a metaphor to represent only a
his name." 12 This calls for patient endurance few seconds, but seconds that "seemed like an eternity"
on the part of the saints who obey God’s at a very tense time. To those people who worship the
commandments and remain faithful to Jesus. 13 beast or accept his mark, this corrective torment seems
Then I heard a voice from heaven say, "Write: to take forever—even the "saints who obey God’s
Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from commands" require "patient endurance" (v 12). If you
now on." "Yes," says the Spirit, "they will rest knew nothing about seatbelts, but someone falsely told
from their labor, for their deeds will follow you that they were designed to imprison people in cars,
them" (Rev 14:9-13) you might read the above story and think that it took a
long time or even forever to loosen the belt. But if you
After this verse takes place, there is a blessing for read it carefully and realize that something else takes
physical human beings who will "die in the Lord from place after the "forever", then it is obvious that this is a
now on". All judgment has not taken place. metaphor—a comparison.

Verse 11 is not discussing the final end of the wicked, The following verse uses an even more complex
but part of the sequence of events during the "last expression "day and night forever and ever" to describe
days". It is important to note that verse 10 speaks of the what happens to the devil for his evil work in
future ("will be tormented"), where verse 11 is in the deceiving the nations. It may mean a process that never
present tense ("smoke...rises", "there is no rest", "those ends. Fortunately, this does not apply to people.
who worship"). Verse 11 is talking about things that
are happening at that time—it does not say "those who And the devil who had deceived them [the
nations of the Earth] was thrown into the lake

49
 2
of fire and sulfur, where the beast and the false The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him
prophet were, and they will be tormented day [Christ]—the Spirit of wisdom and of
and night forever and ever (Rev 20:10, understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of
NRSV). power, the Spirit of knowledge and of the fear
of the Lord—3 and he will delight in the fear of
How much punishment or torment will people the Lord. He will not judge by what he sees
receive in the judgment? The answer is neatly with his eyes, or decide by what he hears
explained in this verse: with his ears; 4 but with righteousness he will
judge the needy, with justice he will give
As she [Babylon] glorified herself and lived decisions for the poor of the earth. He will
luxuriously, so give her a like measure of strike the earth with the rod of his mouth; with
torment and grief. Since in her heart she says, the breath of his lips he will slay the wicked.
5
"I rule as a queen; I am no widow, and I will Righteousness will be his belt and
never see grief" (Rev 18:7, NRSV). faithfulness the sash around his waist. 6 The
wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will
The people of Babylon lived in luxury at the expense lie down with the goat, the calf and the lion
of other’s suffering. So they will receive a similar and the yearling together; and a little child will
amount of suffering in return. As Christ said: lead them (Isa 11:2-6).

For with the judgment you make you will be Christ will be able to judge people with evil thoughts
judged, and the measure you give will be the and intents. His instrument of judgment will be "the
measure you get (Matthew 7:2, NRSV). rod of his mouth". The last verse, above indicates an
atmosphere of great peace. While indeed the most
These verses give the fundamental starting point for rebellious may be literally "slain by Christ’s words,"
eternal judgment. All sins have their penalty and this is the same terminology is used for those who seeking
what people deserve. Christ extends mercy and God—convicted of their sin and desirous of
forgiveness to those with real repentance who believe repentance.
in Him. (But even this life teaches us that a person who
squanders his money on worthless pursuits can repent When the people heard this, they were cut to
before Christ and be forgiven but will probably not the heart and said to Peter and the other
miraculously receive his money back.) apostles, "Brothers, what shall we do?" Peter
replied, "Repent and be baptized, every one
Most of the crimes and punishments listed in the Bible of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the
are very physical in nature: worshipping idols, murder, forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive
adultery and kidnapping deserve the death penalty; the gift of the Holy Spirit" (Acts 2:37-38).
thieves restore twice what they stole; false witnesses
receive the punishment that would have gone to the ...The sword of the Spirit, which is the word
person whom they witnessed against; etc. The Bible of God (Eph 6:17).
also commands people not to hate others, not to speak
evil of others, not to take advantage of the less Several scriptures picture Christ coming to judge with
fortunate and to help those in need. But it does not a "sword in his mouth" (Rev 1:16; 2:12; 19:15). This is
specify a penalty for men to invoke if someone does obviously not a normal way to fight with a sword, but
those things. Rather, God promises to take care of it an analogy for the power of His words. One more
Himself (Exodus 22:21-24). It is wise that God did not scripture showing the "slaying" analogy used for
ask men to punish other men for "sins of the mind". It judgment:
is not really possible to witness what is in a person’s
mind, and corrupt administration of such punishment For the word of God is living and active.
might produce more evil than the original crimes. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it
Righteous, "read the person’s mind" judgment is penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit,
necessary for this: joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and
attitudes of the heart (Heb 4:12).

50
As a sword could cut a person in pieces, so it can • Family difficulties—how many family
divide the good and bad thoughts in a person. The members cannot get along with each other?
revealing of these evil thoughts is often punishment (They may put on a "nice face" to the outside
enough. The salesman who lies to his customers for his world, yet within, all are unhappy.)
own profit will be utterly embarrassed when they find • Personal relationships. How often have you
the truth of what he has been doing. So will the felt miserable due to the way you were treated
housewife who always claims to be "busy" when her by others at your school, job or social
neighbor asks her over, but really does not go because activities?
her neighbor’s house is so neat and she cannot stand to • How many places do we "not go" in because
hear others praise her for it. These problems and they "are not safe"?
thousands of others like them need to be irrefutably • How many people do we know whose lives
revealed by Christ in judgment so everyone can see have been ruined by drugs (legal or illegal),
every person for what they are (Luke 12:1-3; Rom alcohol, gambling or other excesses?
2:16; 1Cor 4:5).
The economic cost of sin is indeed staggering if we
While many scriptures mention physical punishment— think of all of the ways it affects us. Everyone could
or use physical punishment as an analogy to teach have a standard of living several times what they have
about God’s judgment, we should not envision without sin.
judgment as a barbaric place where "everyone will be
beaten until they are ready for the kingdom". (That • We pay higher prices for almost everything
sounds more like Dante’s concept of Hell or from milk to auto repair because of theft and
Purgatory.) Those who have sins of a violent nature fraud in businesses and government.
may need physical punishment to learn their lesson. • Most insurance goes to pay for sins—
But those who have other kinds of sins will need other avoidable problems—not for genuine
kinds of lessons. accidents.
• We spend too much money on inferior
Christ’s judgment and mercy will be perfect. No one products that were designed for higher profits
will be treated too harshly, no unrepentant person will rather than to provide a lasting value for their
be able to "talk his way into the Kingdom". Those who purchaser.
repent and accept what Christ has done will receive • We have illnesses caused by food grown
eternal life, those who do not, the second death. Even a primarily for quantity—not for quality.
life-time of unrepentant sin does not qualify one to • We pay for and suffer from medical treatments
suffer forever in an ever-burning "hell". designed for profit—not for health.
• We pay many times the amount of taxes that
Is Sin Really So Bad? we would need if we did not have to defend
ourselves against warring (sinning) nations,
pay for people who can’t work (often due to
Some people have no question about the enormity of
some sin), pay for people who won’t work
difficulty caused by the sins of others. They have
(sin) and pay for corrupt (sinful) politician’s
suffered from war, oppressive government, man-
pet projects.
induced disease, an abusive spouse or have been the
victim of a major crime. They know how bad sin is.
They understand why God needs to do judge it and do Surely the arm of the Lord is not too short to
something about it so people will not go on repeating save, nor his ear too dull to hear. But your
it. iniquities have separated you from your God;
your sins have hidden his face from you, so
that he will not hear (Isa 59:1-2).
Others of us may have grown up in a relatively
peaceful atmosphere not having suffered from the sins
of others in a great way. Nevertheless, we all probably Sin separates us from God—both individually and
suffer a lot more than we realize because of the sins of collectively. How bad can this get? Bad enough that
others. Think about these things that are the result of God considered the destruction of the entire human
sin: race:

51
 The Lord saw how great man’s wickedness on (Ex 18:11). He is love (1Jn 4:8). He teaches, heals,
the earth had become, and that every rules, forgives and judges. But if you look in a
inclination of the thoughts of his heart was dictionary, you might something about Him being
only evil all the time. The Lord was grieved "omnipresent" (located everywhere at once)
that he had made man on the earth, and his "omniscient" (knowing everything), and "omnipotent"
heart was filled with pain. So the Lord said, "I (having all power—capable of doing anything). These
will wipe mankind, whom I have created, from terms are borrowed from Greek philosophy and do not
the face of the earth—men and animals, and correspond exactly to any word in the Bible.
creatures that move along the ground, and Philosophers like to define God in a theoretical sense,
birds of the air—for I am grieved that I have and then figure out what He must be like by human
made them" (Genesis 6:5-7). reason, rather than listen to what He says. They will
ask questions like: "Can God make a stone so heavy
Obviously, God allowed mankind to continue. But He that He can’t move it?" or "Can God kill Himself?" I
still promises judgment of sin: believe the answer to both of these questions is either
"no" or "He will not"—and that arguing the difference
But with righteousness he will judge the between the two is pointless. God has righteous
needy, with justice he will give decisions for character—He is not a mindless impersonal force that
the poor of the earth. He will strike the earth happens to be capable of anything. The Bible teaches
with the rod of his mouth; with the breath of us that no other has power like God (Deut 4:35), but
his lips he will slay the wicked (Isa 11:4). does not try to completely define His power. Men
might find it impossible to understand the full power of
“Universal Salvation” and God if He explained it to us, so there is little reason to
try to guess at His power through our own reason
“Predestination” (Pslm 131:1). It is probably best to discard the
omnipresent, omniscient and omnipotent ideas, and
"Universal salvation" is the idea that God will just believe that God can do whatever He wants (Isa
eventually give salvation to everyone, whether they are 46:10).
now diligent to follow God or hate and oppose God.
"Predestination" is similar, except that only certain We cannot impose our values on God. We cannot take
people are included in the process—in other words, a statement like "God is Love", and then say that it
some will be saved no matter what they do, and the means He is going to save every single person because
others cannot be saved no matter what they do. Both of that is our definition of "love". There is no verse that
these ideas assign little or no control to the individual says, "God knows what every person is going to do
over his or her own destiny. They assume that God has before they do it." But there are thousands of verses
planned out every individual’s life before the world commanding people to make the right choice. Do they
was created—that humans really do not make have a choice if God knew what they would do before
decisions, but are simply doing what God has already they were born?
planned for them to do.
Nevertheless, there are some verses, when read by
To a large degree, these concepts seem completely themselves, that seem to indicate that either "every last
opposed to the concept of eternal judgment. How can person will be saved" or that "certain select people will
God judge anyone if they are only doing what He be saved no matter what they do". Those verses are
planned for them to do? Furthermore, if we look at the listed below, with clarifications to their translation as
previously quoted Bible verses (Gen 6:5-7), how could necessary. They will be followed by verses that
God have been "grieved that He made man" and specifically show how God is both able to let people
consider destroying them, if He knew from the make decisions on their own and bring about his
beginning exactly what they would do? overall plan.

Part of the reason for this confusion comes from Verses Seeming to Support “Universal
confusion related to the definition of God. If we look in
the Bible for a definition of God, we see that He is the
Salvation”
creator of all that exists (Gen 1:1). He is the one who
"always exists" (Ex 3:14). He is above all other "gods"

52
 And I will put my Spirit in you and move you 1) The surrounding context of some of the above
to follow my decrees and be careful to keep verses shows that there are exceptions—not every last
my laws (Ezk 36:27). [The word "translated person necessarily receives salvation. Immediately
"move" here is a very general word, shamar after John 3:17:
(Strong’s #8104) which means "to do" or "to
make"—it does not mean "to force against Whoever believes in him is not condemned,
one’s will".] but whoever does not believe stands
condemned already because he has not
But in the Lord all the descendants of Israel believed in the name of God’s one and only
will be found righteous and will exult (Isa Son (John 3:18).
45:25).
Similarly, after 1 John 2:2 comes verse 4:
For God did not send his Son into the world to
condemn the world, but to save the world The man who says, "I know him," but does not
through him (John 3:17). do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is
not in him (1Jn 2:4).
And so all Israel will be saved... (Rom 11:26).
2) The word "all" used in many verses above does not
For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be necessarily mean "every single person". It means the
made alive... (1Cor 15:22). overwhelming majority, but not "every last one". This
can be easily shown with a concordance (either English
...we are convinced that one died for all, and or Hebrew and Greek). A number of verses use the
therefore all died.... God was reconciling the word "all", but do not mean every last one—there can
world to himself in Christ, not counting men’s be exceptions to "all". Deuteronomy 2:16: "So it was,
sins against them (2Cor 5:14, 19). when all the men of war had finally perished from
among the people." Joshua and Caleb were men of
[God] who wants all men to be saved and to war, but had not perished. Numbers 14:30 explains the
come to a knowledge of the truth. 5 For there exceptions to "all": "Not one of you will enter the
is one God and one mediator between God and land I swore with uplifted hand to make your home,
men, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself except Caleb son of Jephunneh and Joshua son of
as a ransom for all men—the testimony given Nun." In 2 Kings 11:1 Athalia destroyed all the royal
in its proper time (1Tim 2:4). seed, but there was a survivor mentioned in verse 2.
Also, Mark 3:28 says: "I tell you the truth, all the sins
The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, and blasphemies of men will be forgiven them", but
as some understand slowness. He is patient verse 29 goes on to say: "But whoever blasphemes
with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but against the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven; he is
everyone to come to repentance (2Pet 3:9). guilty of an eternal sin."

He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not 3) There are many other verses that show that some
only for ours but also for the sins of the whole will not be saved. Several are listed in The
world (1Jn 2:2). "Unpardonable Sin" section. Other verses put clear
requirements (like believing in Christ) on those who
would be saved:
Verses Clearly Refuting “Universal
Salvation” And everyone who calls on the name of the
Lord will be saved (Acts 2:21).
If all we read were the above and other similar verses,
we might indeed conclude that God plans to give Peter replied, "Repent and be baptized, every
salvation to every person no matter what they do. But one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the
there are at least four things wrong with taking this forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive
approach. the gift of the Holy Spirit" (Acts 2:38).

53
 Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but man, to talk back to God? "Shall what is
cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the formed say to him who formed it, ‘Why did
One who can destroy both soul and body in you make me like this?’" 21 Does not the potter
hell (Matt 10:28). have the right to make out of the same lump of
clay some pottery for noble purposes and some
"Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ for common use? 22 What if God, choosing to
will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he show his wrath and make his power known,
who does the will of my Father who is in bore with great patience the objects of his
heaven. Many will say to me on that day, wrath—prepared for destruction? 23 What if he
‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your did this to make the riches of his glory known
name, and in your name drive out demons and to the objects of his mercy, whom he prepared
perform many miracles?’ Then I will tell them in advance for glory—24 even us, whom he also
plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, called, not only from the Jews but also from
you evildoers!’" (Matthew 7:21-23.) the Gentiles? (Rom 9:18-24.)

Romans 9:27 Isaiah cries out concerning For he chose us in him before the creation of
Israel: "Though the number of the Israelites be the world to be holy and blameless in his sight.
like the sand by the sea, only the remnant will In love he predestined us to be adopted as his
be saved. sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with
his pleasure and will (Eph 1:4-5).
4) Finally, most scriptures used to support "universal
salvation" say something like "God wants all men to be In him we were also chosen, having been
saved". There are no scriptures that say that God will predestined according to the plan of him who
force repentance or salvation on those who do not want works out everything in conformity with the
it. purpose of his will (Eph 1:11).

Verses Seeming to Support For we are God’s workmanship, created in

Christ Jesus to do good works, which God
“Predestination” prepared in advance for us to do (Eph 2:10).
Woe to him who quarrels with his Maker, to In addition to these verses, advocates of
him who is but a potsherd among the potsherds "predestination" will mention the cases where people
on the ground. Does the clay say to the potter, were called of God before their birth. Cyrus was
"What are you making?" Does your work say, prophesied by name to rebuild Jerusalem (Isa 45).
"He has no hands"? (Isa 45:9.) Jeremiah (Jer 1:5) and John the Baptist (Luke 1) were
called before birth. People have been prepared to sit on
When the Gentiles heard this, they were glad either side of Christ (Mark 10:40). Twelve Apostles
and honored the word of the Lord; and all who will judge 12 tribes (Matt 19:28). There other
were appointed for eternal life believed scriptures, but some of them probably do not apply to
(Acts 13:48). the authors of the books as the entire chapter is a
prophecy about Christ (Pslm 22; Isa 49).
For those God foreknew he also predestined to
be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that Verses Clearly Refuting
he might be the firstborn among many
brothers. And those he predestined, he also “Predestination”
called; those he called, he also justified; those
he justified, he also glorified (Rom 8:29). The above verses definitely show that God planned to
call and put His Spirit in people before the world was
18
Therefore God has mercy on whom he created. They show that He had a specific purpose in
wants to have mercy, and he hardens whom mind for a few individuals before they were born. But
he wants to harden. 19 One of you will say to there just are not any verses that say: "every person
me: "Then why does God still blame us? For who is a member of the body of Christ was already
who resists his will?" 20 But who are you, O selected before he was born". Nor is there a verse that

54
says: "Once God has selected you, you are saved no Israelites were saddened by what happened (Matt
matter what you do." Nor is there a verse that clearly 27:54-60). God was able to make His plan happen with
says, "Some people were made having no possibility of a diversity of people and attitudes.
salvation." (Even those who were made to be "objects
of His wrath" in this life will still be judged in the A study of Abraham (Gen 12-26) shows that God made
resurrection.) many promises to him as he continued to obey (Gen
26:4-5). God did not promise him everything right
God has created the world and given men and women away because "He knew he would obey", but He had to
choices to make. He put Adam and Eve in a nice "test" him:
garden and told them not to eat of one tree (Gen 1-3).
You probably know what they chose to do. On the Sometime later God tested Abraham. He said
other hand, God has His plans for what He will to him, "Abraham!" "Here I am," he replied....
accomplish. He is quite able to alter, steer and control "Do not lay a hand on the boy," he said. "Do
what is happening on this Earth, and still leave people not do anything to him. Now I know that you
free choice. He does this in a way that is complex fear God, because you have not withheld from
beyond our understanding. "...He has also set eternity me your son, your only son" (Gen 22:1, 22).
in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God
has done from beginning to end" (Eccl 3:11). Other scriptures show that God tests all of his people at
various times:
All we can do is see some of the ways He works—in
the many instances recorded in the Bible. Isaiah 45 and Remember how the Lord your God led you all
Romans 9 (quoted above) certainly show that He does the way in the desert these forty years, to
not always deal the same way with everyone all of the humble you and to test you in order to know
time. But to think that God’s prophetic plans are what was in your heart, whether or not you
always fulfilled by Him writing the history of the would keep his commands (Deut 8:2).
world in advance, and then causing people to be born
to "play each part" is wrong. He can plan events, and You must not listen to the words of that
then find people who are willing to fulfill them. If He prophet or dreamer. The Lord your God is
needs a righteous man for His plan, He can correct him testing you to find out whether you love him
each time he sins to make him more righteous (Heb with all your heart and with all your soul (Deut
12:5-7). If He needs an evil sinner, He can allow him 13:3).
to go unpunished (Eccl 8:11). Notice:
In at least one case, God removed His presence from
Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together someone in order to see what he would do without it:
with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in
this city to conspire against your holy servant However, regarding the ambassadors of the
Jesus, whom you anointed. They did what your princes of Babylon, whom they sent to him to
power and will had decided beforehand should inquire about the wonder that was done in the
happen (Acts 4:27-28). land, God withdrew from him, in order to
test him, that He might know all that was in
This verse does not say that Herod, Pilate, or individual his heart (2Chr 32:31, NKJV).
Gentiles and Israelites were planned from birth to
execute Christ. The events were planned and the Saul, David and Solomon are excellent examples of
various people fulfilled them. It is interesting to note how God works with men. Each was chosen by God to
they were fulfilled in many different ways. The Bible be king in Israel and each was promised a perpetual
records that Herod mocked Jesus (Luke 23:11). Pilate dynasty if they would follow God. One failed soon,
wanted no part of His execution and, except for the one did extremely well with only one big mistake, and
crowd, would have released Him (Matt 27:15-24). the other did well for a long time but turned from God
Christ asked forgiveness for the soldiers who crucified in the end.
Him (Luke 23:34), but no similar statement is recorded
about those who scourged him, etc. Some of the
The Spirit of the Lord will come upon you
Israelites gladly took responsibility for His death (Matt
[Saul] in power, and you will prophesy with
27:25). But a Roman centurion and many other
55
 them; and you will be changed into a different the rods of men". Solomon pleased God at first, and
person. Once these signs are fulfilled, do God gave him wisdom and riches like no other (1Kngs
whatever your hand finds to do, for God is 3). Solomon built the magnificent temple of God and
with you (1Sam 10:6-7). He appeared to him a second time:

Saul was given the Holy Spirit and a chance to be a I will establish your royal throne over Israel
successful king. But when he did not follow the big forever, as I promised David your father when
things that God gave him to do, that spirit was taken I said, ‘You shall never fail to have a man on
away from him: the throne of Israel.’ But if you or your sons
turn away from me and do not observe the
Now the Spirit of the Lord had departed from commands and decrees I have given you and
Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord go off to serve other gods and worship them,
tormented him (1Sam 16:14). then I will cut off Israel from the land I have
given them and will reject this temple I have
"You acted foolishly," Samuel said. "You consecrated for my Name (1Kngs 9:5-7).
have not kept the command the Lord your
God gave you; if you had, he would have Solomon knew exactly what God expected of him: not
established your kingdom over Israel for all perfection, but a continual effort to follow God. What
time. 14 But now your kingdom will not did Solomon do?
endure; the Lord has sought out a man after his
9
own heart and appointed him leader of his The Lord became angry with Solomon
people, because you have not kept the Lord’s because his heart had turned away from the
command (1Sam 13:13-24). Lord, the God of Israel, who had appeared to
him twice. 10 Although he had forbidden
Saul’s loss of the kingdom was clearly due to what he Solomon to follow other gods, Solomon did
did, not what God did. God was so pleased with David not keep the Lord’s command. 11 So the Lord
that He promised him that he would establish his son’s said to Solomon, "Since this is your attitude
thrown forever. Did that mean that his son was and you have not kept my covenant and my
predestined to receive the Holy Spirit and have a place decrees, which I commanded you, I will most
in the Kingdom? Did that mean that his son "had it certainly tear the kingdom away from you and
made" no matter what kind of life he lived? give it to one of your subordinates. 12
Nevertheless, for the sake of David your
12
When your [King David’s] days are over and father, I will not do it during your lifetime. I
you rest with your fathers, I will raise up your will tear it out of the hand of your son. 13 Yet I
offspring to succeed you, who will come from will not tear the whole kingdom from him, but
your own body, and I will establish his will give him one tribe for the sake of David
kingdom. 13 He is the one who will build a my servant and for the sake of Jerusalem,
house for my Name, and I will establish the which I have chosen" (1Kngs 11:9-13).
throne of his kingdom forever. 14 I will be his
father, and he will be my son. When he does Before this time, Solomon had had peace on all sides.
wrong, I will punish him with the rod of But the rest of 1 Kings 11 shows that God allowed
men, with floggings inflicted by men. 15 But enemies of Solomon to rise up. One of Solomon’s
my love will never be taken away from him, as officers, Jeroboam, rebelled against Solomon (vv. 16-
I took it away from Saul, whom I removed 28). At times, God punished people who rebelled
from before you. 16 Your house and your against His leaders. But in this case, Solomon was to
kingdom will endure forever before me; your be punished "with the rod of men", and Jeroboam
throne will be established forever’" (2Sam was given part of the majority of the kingdom by God
7:12-16). (v 31). (The Bible does not give Jeroboam’s reasons
for rebelling—they may have been good reasons.)
God has untold options. He removed the kingdom of Solomon tried to kill Jeroboam, but did not succeed (v
many kings who disobeyed him, but in Solomon’s 40). Both Jeroboam, and Solomon’s son, Rehoboam,
case, He promised not to do that, but "punish him with turned out to be evil kings. When Rehoboam tried to
fight Jeroboam to regain his part of the kingdom, God
56
sent them a prophet and told them they were not going of its evil, then I will relent and not inflict on it
to do it (1Kngs 12:22-24). God can steer history the disaster I had planned. 9 And if at another
through little events or big ones. Even in our day, we time I announce that a nation or kingdom is to
can think about which assassin’s bullets missed, and be built up and planted, 10 and if it does evil in
which hit. We can also think about big nations that my sight and does not obey me, then I will
failed in their military objective against a smaller reconsider the good I had intended to do for it.
11
nation—and vice versa. "Now therefore say to the people of Judah
and those living in Jerusalem, ‘This is what the
We could consider many more specific examples of Lord says: Look! I am preparing a disaster for
people to whom God gave a job—some following God you and devising a plan against you. So turn
while they did it, others displeasing God. Moses and from your evil ways, each one of you, and
Joshua are examples of men who obeyed. When Israel reform your ways and your actions’" (Jer 18:7-
rebelled against God, He intended to destroy the nation 11).
and make a new nation from Moses, but Moses
convinced Him not to (Num 14:11-20). That was a big Even when Jesus was on the Earth, He was able to be
decision. Jesus Christ descended through the tribe of moved to change his mission by a pleading person:
Judah, not through Moses (Matt 1:2; Luke 3:33). Had
22
Moses not spoken up, Christ would have come—but A Canaanite woman from that vicinity came
would have had a different genealogy. to him, crying out, "Lord, Son of David, have
mercy on me! My daughter is suffering terribly
Jehu was a disobedient example. He was anointed King from demon-possession." 23 Jesus did not
of Israel and told to put an end to certain sins. But after answer a word. So his disciples came to him
he had killed the people and destroyed the idols, notice and urged him, "Send her away, for she keeps
what God said: crying out after us." 24 He answered, "I was
sent only to the lost sheep of Israel." 25 The
The Lord said to Jehu, "Because you have woman came and knelt before him. "Lord, help
done well in accomplishing what is right in my me!" she said. 26 He replied, "It is not right to
eyes and have done to the house of Ahab all I take the children’s bread and toss it to their
had in mind to do, your descendants will sit on dogs." 27 "Yes, Lord," she said, "but even the
the throne of Israel to the fourth generation." dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their
Yet Jehu was not careful to keep the law of the masters’ table." 28 Then Jesus answered,
Lord, the God of Israel, with all his heart. He "Woman, you have great faith! Your request is
did not turn away from the sins of Jeroboam, granted." And her daughter was healed from
which he had caused Israel to commit (2Kngs that very hour (Matt 15:22-28).
10:30-31).
This Gentile woman received mercy from Christ
Most everyone knows what happened to Jonah when because of what she said and did. Similarly, the first
he tried to escape from his task of preaching to Gentile church member was already trying to please
Nineveh: God made a fish swallow him and sent him God, before God called him:
on his way. After Jonah preached and his message was
heard, he was unhappy with God (Jonah 4:1). Of At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius,
interest, the people of Nineveh were told: "Forty more a centurion in what was known as the Italian
days and Nineveh will be overturned" (Jonah 3:4). Regiment. He and all his family were devout
There was no "if" in the message. But their king said: and God-fearing; he gave generously to those
"Who knows? God may yet relent and with in need and prayed to God regularly (Acts
compassion turn from his fierce anger so that we will 10:1-2).
not perish." God heard and He changed! God’s general
approach to dealing with prophecy is explained here: The entire concept of prayer seems to make little sense
for those who believe in predestination. Why ask God
7
If at any time I announce that a nation or for anything if He has already planned one’s life:
kingdom is to be uprooted, torn down and Notice that when Christ had an important decision, He
destroyed, 8 and if that nation I warned repents prayed a long time. Why would He take any time to

57
pray about who His apostles should be if they had been to sit with me on my throne, just as I overcame
picked out before the world was created? He also and sat down with my Father on his throne
taught us that one reason we do not have things we (Rev 3:20-21).
need is because we do not ask:
If we want to have an understanding about how God
One of those days Jesus went out to a looks at those who do good or evil, please read this
mountainside to pray, and spent the night rather specific passage:
praying to God. When morning came, he
11
called his disciples to him and chose twelve of Say to them, "As surely as I live, declares the
them, whom he also designated apostles (Luke Sovereign Lord, I take no pleasure in the
6:12-13). death of the wicked, but rather that they turn
from their ways and live. Turn! Turn from
You want something but don’t get it. ... You your evil ways! Why will you die, O house of
quarrel and fight. You do not have, because Israel?" 12 Therefore, son of man, say to your
you do not ask God (Jms 4:2). countrymen, "The righteousness of the
righteous man will not save him when he
Even in the important subject of salvation, we are disobeys, and the wickedness of the wicked
frequently reminded that there are things that we need man will not cause him to fall when he turns
to do to receive it. This is not "salvation by works"—a from it. The righteous man, if he sins, will not
child who asks his parent for a new change of clothes be allowed to live because of his former
does not earn the clothes by asking, but he might not righteousness." 13 If I tell the righteous man
get them if he does not ask. that he will surely live, but then he trusts in
his righteousness and does evil, none of the
Peter replied, "Repent and be baptized, every righteous things he has done will be
one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the remembered; he will die for the evil he has
forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive done. 14 And if I say to the wicked man,
the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38). "You will surely die," but he then turns away
from his sin and does what is just and right—15
Christ is the end of the law so that there may if he gives back what he took in pledge for a
be righteousness for everyone who believes. loan, returns what he has stolen, follows the
... That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus decrees that give life, and does no evil, he will
is Lord," and believe in your heart that God surely live; he will not die. 16 None of the sins
raised him from the dead, you will be saved... he has committed will be remembered against
For whosoever shall call upon the name of the him. He has done what is just and right; he will
Lord shall be saved (Rom 10:4,9,13) surely live.... 20 Yet, O house of Israel, you say,
"The way of the Lord is not just."’ But I will
And Peter having opened his mouth, said, ‘Of judge each of you according to his own ways
a truth, I perceive that God is no respecter of (Ezk 33:11-16,20).
persons, 35 but in every nation he who is
fearing Him, and is working righteousness, Even in regard to the salvation of other people, the
is acceptable to Him (Acts 10:34, YLT). Apostle Paul knew he was commissioned to preach,
but also believed that his own actions could have a
And you also were included in Christ when positive effect on the salvation of others:
you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your
salvation. Having believed, you were marked I am talking to you Gentiles. Inasmuch as I am
in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit the apostle to the Gentiles, I make much of my
(Eph 1:13). ministry in the hope that I may somehow
arouse my own people to envy and save some
Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If of them (Rom 11:13-14).
anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I 16
will come in and eat with him, and he with me. Yet when I preach the gospel, I cannot boast,
To him who overcomes, I will give the right for I am compelled to preach. Woe to me if I

58
 do not preach the gospel! 17 If I preach others living in Jerusalem? 5 I tell you, no! But
voluntarily, I have a reward; if not voluntarily, unless you repent, you too will all perish"
I am simply discharging the trust committed to (Luke 13:1-5).
me. 18 What then is my reward? Just this: that
in preaching the gospel I may offer it free of Christ taught that disastrous deaths sometimes happen
charge, and so not make use of my rights in to people who were not the worst sinners (but that
preaching it. 19 Though I am free and belong to death is the ultimate end for everyone who does not
no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to repent, because we all have sinned and deserve it).
win as many as possible. 20 To the Jews I Nevertheless, Christ indicated that these two disasters
became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those were not specifically the "hand of God". But then He
under the law I became like one under the law goes on to give a parable showing that some disasters
(though I myself am not under the law), so as are "the hand of God":
to win those under the law. 21 To those not
having the law I became like one not having Then he told this parable: "A man had a fig
the law (though I am not free from God's law tree, planted in his vineyard, and he went to
but am under Christ's law), so as to win those look for fruit on it, but did not find any. So he
not having the law. 22 To the weak I became said to the man who took care of the vineyard,
weak, to win the weak. I have become all ‘For three years now I’ve been coming to look
things to all men so that by all possible means for fruit on this fig tree and haven’t found any.
I might save some. 23 I do all this for the sake Cut it down! Why should it use up the soil?’
of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings ‘Sir,’ the man replied, ‘leave it alone for one
(1Cor 9:16-23). more year, and I’ll dig around it and fertilize it.
If it bears fruit next year, fine! If not, then cut
Conclusion on Universal Salvation and it down’" (Luke 13:6-9).
Predestination
This parable shows that God goes out of His way to try
Even after reading these scriptures, it may still be hard to correct people who are not bearing fruit. It may
to understand why God would leave such an important seem difficult to the person at the time, but it is
issue as who will be given eternal life in the hands of ultimately the best for them: "because the Lord
mere men and women. Could He leave such important disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he
decisions to people who do not fully understand His accepts as a son" (Heb 12:6). God refers to himself as a
plan? Could He even leave some of them to chance? Father and to people as his children in many
Think about the creation of human life. God Scriptures. A good parent will know in general what
commanded men and women to form lifetime his small children will do, without specifically
marriages before "making babies"—but billions of knowing exactly what they will do at any one time. He
children have been conceived by couples "having fun" may be pleasantly surprised at some decisions, and
and taking no thought for their future. Some children disappointed in others—but capable of handling any
are raised by parents who love and care for them; other situation and steering it for his children’s learning and
children are hated or killed by those who conceived benefit. Sometimes, he lets his children learn from
them. God often does not stop most of the disasters that their own mistakes, other times he saves them from
men create. Notice this teaching of Christ: what would otherwise be a disaster. Our father is a lot
like that.
1
Now there were some present at that time
who told Jesus about the Galileans whose One final comment on the doctrines of "universal
blood Pilate had mixed with their sacrifices. salvation" and "predestination": If they were true, there
2
Jesus answered, "Do you think that these is still no point in teaching either doctrine. If everyone
Galileans were worse sinners than all the other is going to be saved, or just certain "elect" are going to
Galileans because they suffered this way? 3 I be saved, then whether or not people even know the
tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too doctrine makes no difference in who will be saved. If
will all perish. 4 Or those eighteen who died these doctrines were true, our entire lives would be
when the tower in Siloam fell on them—do pre-programmed and pointless. One could not argue
you think they were more guilty than all the against a person who believed these doctrines and
wanted to commit suicide—if they were destined to be
59
saved, suicide would instantly put them with God and away. That is how it will be at the coming of
if they were destined not to be saved, they would be the Son of Man. 40 Two men will be in the
"putting themselves out of their misery". field; one will be taken and the other left. 41
Two women will be grinding with a hand mill;
But the overwhelming teaching of the Bible is that our one will be taken and the other left (Matt
lives do matter. We need to "Make every effort to enter 24:38-41).
through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will
try to enter and will not be able to" (Luke 13:24). We I tell you, on that night two people will be in
do not want to be like the man who hid his "talent in one bed; one will be taken and the other left.
the earth" (Matt 25:25). God gave us minds to think Two women will be grinding grain together;
and make decisions, a Bible to read, a Holy Spirit to one will be taken and the other left (Luke
teach us and a promise to hear our prayers. We need to 17:34-35).
use these gifts.
According to the Lord’s own word, we tell you
Does the Bible Teach a “Rapture”? that we who are still alive, who are left till the
coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede
The word "rapture" means a state of extreme emotion those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord
or joy—being "carried away". In theology, it refers to himself will come down from heaven, with a
the doctrine that all of those who are "saved" will loud command, with the voice of the archangel
physically rise in the air to meet Christ. There are and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead
many variants on this doctrine. Some religious groups in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are
teach that it will happen in a rather reckless fashion: still alive and are left will be caught up
planes will crash as "saved" pilots are "raptured" from together with them in the clouds to meet the
their cockpits, thousands of auto crashes will occur as Lord in the air. And so we will be with the
"saved’ drivers leave their vehicles and possibly Lord forever (1Thes 4:15-17).
"unsaved" passengers careening out of control. You
may have seen bumper stickers that say: "Warning! In Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all
event of the rapture, this vehicle will be un-occupied!" sleep, but we will all be changed—in a flash,
in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet.
Obviously, a person using such a bumper sticker is For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be
trying to do God’s job of judgment for Him. How can raised imperishable, and we will be changed
he be sure he will be chosen? Actually, the entire (1Cor 15:51).
concept of "chaotic rapture" is not in the Bible. Even
the word "rapture" is not found in any common Bible There are many other scriptures where God promises
translation. Nevertheless, some Bible teachers spend a protection to those who obey Him. But those scriptures
great deal of time teaching this "sudden" or "secret say nothing about disappearing or rising to meet Christ.
rapture" doctrine—even producing whole books and On the other hand, the verses above seem to indicate
movies on the subject. Some believe that the "rapture" that the event described is not a secret event, but one
will occur before the "great tribulation", and others that everyone will see. Notice, what we read only a few
believe it will occur after. verses before the "one taken one left" scripture in
Matthew 24:
The Bible does teach that some believers will rise to
meet Christ in the air. Let us see what it says, rather At that time the sign of the Son of Man will
than basing our belief on a "rapture theory", and then appear in the sky, and all the nations of the
finding scriptures that seem to fit the theory but do not earth will mourn. They will see the Son of
really prove it. Here is what the Bible says: Man coming on the clouds of the sky, with
power and great glory. And he will send his
38
For in the days before the flood, people were angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will
eating and drinking, marrying and giving in gather his elect from the four winds, from one
marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; end of the heavens to the other (Matt 24:30).
39
and they knew nothing about what would
happen until the flood came and took them all

60
This event seems to be known to everyone. There is no ...This same Jesus, who has been taken from
proof of a "secret rapture" There are no verses about you into heaven, will come back in the same
accidents occurring because a "raptured" person way you have seen him go into heaven (Acts
suddenly left his farm animals, grain mill, oven or 1:11).
whatever. God could cause those that He is taking
away to leave in an orderly manner or He could allow I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the
great destruction. The Bible does not say—so we end he will stand upon the earth. And after my
should not make a doctrine out of it. skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will
see God (Job 19:25-26).
Are There “Go To Heaven” Verses?
Did Jesus promise one of the criminals hanging on the
Most people grow up believing that "when good people crosses that he would go to "Heaven" that day? Notice
die, they go to heaven". Yet the Bible continually what it says.
compares death to "sleep". Nevertheless, there are
some scriptures that do seem to talk about people in Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you
heaven. come into your kingdom." Jesus answered
him, "I tell you the truth, today you will be
The book of Matthew contains many references to the with me in paradise." (Luke 23:43)
"Kingdom of Heaven". Is this about believers "going to
Heaven" to be with God when they die? Notice, The original language word here is a Persian word for
however, that this Kingdom is not specifically in an ideal hunting ground—a wonderful place:
Heaven but of Heaven. "Kingdom from Heaven" or paradeisos. Does it mean the "Heaven" where God
"Heavenly Kingdom" better translate Matthew’s dwells? Probably not. The same word is used in only
words. We can be certain that the "Kingdom of two other places in the Bible, one in Revelation 2:7,
Heaven" spoken of by Matthew is the same as the which is a reference to the tree in the Garden of Eden
phrase "Kingdom of God" used by the other Gospel (Gen 2:9). The other use of this word describes the
writers, Mark, Luke and John. There are places where location of a vision in 2 Corinthians 12:3-4. It is very
several Gospel writers record the same words of Jesus unlikely that it means heaven as Paul just described a
and Matthew says "Kingdom of Heaven" and the vision in verse 2 that did take place in the "third
others say "Kingdom of God" (see Matt 13:11; Mark heaven". "Paradise" appears to be used for a non-
4:11; Luke 8:10). The "Kingdom of God" occurs at the specific, but happy place.
return of Christ, when he returns to the earth to take
over the earthly kingdoms and rule as King of Kings After that criminal died, the next thing he will
and Lord of Lords (Dan 2:44; Job 19:25; Rev 11:15; remember is a favorable judgment—there is no
17:12-14; 19:16-19). consciousness between. He repented of his sin and
suffered an awful death for it. It does seem impossible
Along a similar line, some people think this verse tells that he could be with Jesus in Heaven on that very
about mansions in heaven that are being prepared for same day because Jesus had to wait three days for His
believers: resurrection (1Cor 15:3-4) and He did not ascend to
His Father until after he rose from the dead (John
"In My Father’s house are many mansions; 20:17). The word for "today" in the above verse can be
if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to used for a time (a "today") in the future. Notice this
prepare a place for you. And if I go and scripture were the exact same word is used twice:
prepare a place for you, I will come again and
receive you to Myself; that where I am, there Therefore God again set a certain day, calling
you may be also (John 14:2-3, NKJV). it Today, when a long time later he spoke
through David, as was said before: "Today, if
If you will notice, though, this verse does not mention you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts"
the word "Heaven" Verse 3 clearly shows that Christ (Heb 4:7).
will come again to Earth—that is the place he "came"
the first time:

61
Another rather unusual scripture that some say proves yours. The Lord has decreed disaster for you"
that "the saved" are now alive in heaven is this rather (1Kngs 22:20-23).
unusual story:
This writer thinks that a lying spirit pretending to be
7
Saul then said to his attendants, "Find me a Samuel spoke to the medium and to Saul. False
woman who is a medium, so I may go and prophets sometimes speak true messages, because God
inquire of her." "There is one in Endor," they requires them to do so (see Balaam’s example—Num
said.... 11 Then the woman asked, "Whom shall 22:18). But even if one were to assume that the
I bring up for you?" "Bring up Samuel," he medium at Endor did really contact Samuel, what do
said. 12 When the woman saw Samuel, she the verses quoted above say? They say that Samuel
cried out at the top of her voice and said to came "up out of the ground" and asked "why did you
Saul, "Why have you deceived me? You are disturb me". They do not say he "came down from
Saul!" 13 The king said to her, "Don’t be afraid. heaven"! So either way, the "Samuel was in heaven"
What do you see?" The woman said, "I see a idea does not fit. But this writer certainly prefers the
spirit coming up out of the ground." 14 "What "lying spirit" explanation. There is no example in the
does he look like?" he asked. "An old man scripture of Satan or his demons raising somebody
wearing a robe is coming up," she said. Then from the dead.
Saul knew it was Samuel, and he bowed down
and prostrated himself with his face to the The "transfiguration" (Matt 17:1-9) is sometimes
ground. 15 Samuel said to Saul, "Why have thought to be evidence that the righteous of the Old
you disturbed me by bringing me up?" "I Testament are already in the Bible. After all, here we
am in great distress," Saul said. "The find Jesus talking with Moses and Elijah (not some
Philistines are fighting against me, and God medium). Nevertheless, we need to realize that this
has turned away from me. He no longer was not reality of the time, but Jesus interacting with a
answers me, either by prophets or by dreams. "vision". "Now as they came down from the
So I have called on you to tell me what to do" mountain, Jesus commanded them, saying, ‘Tell the
(1Sam 28:7,11-15). vision to no one until the Son of Man is risen from the
dead’" (Matt 17:9, NKJV). The Greek word horama
Was the prophet Samuel alive in heaven? Did he come (strong’s #5719) appears to have this same meaning in
back to speak to Saul? First, let us find God’s opinion all of the 11 other places it is used. If modern
of "mediums"—people who claim to communicate technology can produce three-dimensional moving,
with the spirits of the dead: "A man or woman who is a talking images from the mind of an artist, so can the
medium or spiritist among you must be put to death. mind of God produce visions of the future to
You are to stone them; their blood will be on their own whomever He will.
heads" (Lev 20:27). Even though the message that this
"Samuel" gave to Saul corresponded with what the Most of the other scriptures which might be used to
God said before, could Saul really be sure that he was claim that "people go to Heaven when they die" are in
talking to Samuel? Notice, that God sometimes does the book of Revelation. The words "heaven" and
His work through false prophets—especially when "earth" are found 56 and 81 times respectively in the
people trust in false prophets to begin with: book of Revelation. Beside this, there are references to
temples, altars priests and other things that are in both
20
"And the Lord said, ‘Who will entice Ahab Heaven and earth—it is not always easy to tell where a
into attacking Ramoth Gilead and going to his specific verse takes place.
death there?’ One suggested this, and another
that. 21 Finally, a spirit came forward, stood Additional difficulty comes from the fact that most of
before the Lord and said, ‘I will entice him.’ the book is symbolic. For example, almost nobody
22
‘By what means?’ the Lord asked. ‘I will go believes that there is a literal, real animal with seven
out and be a lying spirit in the mouths of all heads and ten horns (Rev 12:3, etc.). Whereas many
his [Ahab’s] prophets,’ he said. ‘You will Bible students believe that there will be a literal new
succeed in enticing him,’ said the Lord. ‘Go Heaven and earth (Rev 20). But many other scriptures
and do it.’ 23 So now the Lord has put a lying are uncertain: Are they literal or figurative in some
spirit in the mouths of all these prophets of way? Are the people and heavenly creatures mentioned
prophecies of literal things in Heaven or on the earth?
62
Or are they symbols of greater things? Our particular the earth will gloat over them and will
approach to prophetic interpretation will make a big celebrate by sending each other gifts, because
difference as to whether any of these scriptures say that these two prophets had tormented those who
there are literal people in Heaven. Furthermore, we live on the earth. 11 But after the three and a
must ask the question, is it possible that all people who half days a breath of life from God entered
have died up to this point are still in the ground them, and they stood on their feet, and terror
awaiting a resurrection (compatible with the rest of struck those who saw them. 12 Then they heard
scripture), but that at some time in the future some will a loud voice from heaven saying to them,
be in Heaven? "Come up here." And they went up to heaven
in a cloud, while their enemies looked on. 13 At
Before we accept an explanation of the meaning of the that very hour there was a severe earthquake
Book of Revelation from a particular teacher, we ought and a tenth of the city collapsed. Seven
to realize that most teachers have borrowed much of thousand people were killed in the earthquake,
their teaching from previous prophecy teachers—and and the survivors were terrified and gave glory
almost all of those previous teachers came up with to the God of heaven (Rev 11:3-13).
some prophetic time-table which proved to be in error.
If they were in error, they were probably not inspired The underlined words, above, sound like they apply to
of God. (It seems preferable to simply ask God to give literal men. But, if we look at the definition of the "two
us understanding of the parts of prophecy that we need witnesses" in verse 4, we find that they are "two olive
in our lives now. What if He does not reveal anything? trees" and "two lampstands". Revelation does not
It may be for the best. Think of the thousands of people mention olive trees anywhere else, but Revelation
who thought they had "figured out" how prophecy 1:12-20 clearly show that Christ is among seven
would be fulfilled and Christ would return in the lampstands and "the seven lampstands are the seven
1800’s. They would have been better off admitting that churches" (Rev 12:20). Could the two witnesses be two
they did not know, but living their lives in a way that churches? Could they be both churches ("lampstands)
would please Christ all the time.) and men ("olive trees"—Zech 4:11-15)?

One outstanding example of questions between literal Without answering these prophecy questions, it is hard
or symbolic are the "two witnesses". Are they two to say that this scripture teaches that the "two witnesses
actual men, or do they represent groups of people? will go to heaven". We also must consider whether or
not the two witnesses actually went to the heaven
3
And I will give power to my two witnesses, where God’s throne is, or simply up into the air. The
and they will prophesy for 1,260 days, clothed verse says that they went in a cloud—clouds are
in sackcloth." 4 These are the two olive trees around the earth. Similarly, Elijah was taken up to
and the two lampstands that stand before "heaven" in a "whirlwind" (winds are in the air, not in
the Lord of the earth. 5 If anyone tries to outer space) in 2 Kings 2:11, but must have continued
harm them, fire comes from their mouths and living on earth because he later wrote a letter (2Chr
devours their enemies. This is how anyone 21:12). We must realize that the Bible uses the same
who wants to harm them must die. 6 These men words for the "heaven" that could be 1) the
have power to shut up the sky so that it will not atmosphere, 2) outer space and 3) the dwelling place of
rain during the time they are prophesying; and God. Paul, to make his point clear, uses term "third
they have power to turn the waters into blood heaven" one time (2Cor 12:2). All of these places were
and to strike the earth with every kind of basically "off limits" to people of that time. Today, we
plague as often as they want. 7 Now when they can send airplanes into the atmosphere and rockets into
have finished their testimony, the beast that nearby outer space. We can be fairly sure that the
comes up from the Abyss will attack them, and heaven where God dwells is either invisible to us, or
overpower and kill them. 8 Their bodies will lie very far away.
in the street of the great city, which is
figuratively called Sodom and Egypt, where Let us look at some more scriptures which some people
also their Lord was crucified. 9 For three and a believe refer to "heaven".
half days men from every people, tribe,
language and nation will gaze on their bodies When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under
and refuse them burial. 10 The inhabitants of the altar the souls of those who had been
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 slain because of the word of God and the them to springs of living water. And God will
testimony they had maintained. They called wipe away every tear from their eyes" (Rev
out in a loud voice, "How long, Sovereign 7:9,11,14-17).
Lord, holy and true, until you judge the
inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood?" The "great multitude above appears to literally be
Then each of them was given a white robe, and around God’s throne in Heaven—serving Him. Yet, the
they were told to wait a little longer, until the underscored words in the last two verses seem very
number of their fellow servants and brothers symbolic (do people need to avoid the sun and be lead
who were to be killed as they had been was to water in Heaven?) We must also realize that these
completed (Rev 6:9-11). are just people who have come out of "the great
tribulation". This scripture does not apply to all
Are these souls under an altar in Heaven? Actually, the believers everywhere.
location of the altar is not given, though there probably
1
is one in Heaven (Rev 9:13). But if we realize that the Then I looked, and there before me was the
blood of sacrifices poured out under the altar, then it is Lamb, standing on Mount Zion, and with
easy to see that these "souls under the altar" represent him 144,000 who had his name and his
martyrs who were slain, and the white robes symbolize Father’s name written on their foreheads. 2
the righteousness of the saints (Rev 19:8). When And I heard a sound from heaven like the roar
"righteous Abel" (Matt 23:35) was killed, we find very of rushing waters and like a loud peal of
similar language: "What have you done? Listen! Your thunder. The sound I heard was like that of
brother’s blood cries out to me from the ground. Now harpists playing their harps. 3 And they sang a
you are under a curse and driven from the ground, new song before the throne and before the
which opened its mouth to receive your brother’s four living creatures and the elders. No one
blood from your hand" (Gen 4:10-11). The ground could learn the song except the 144,000 who
does not have a "mouth", Abel was dead and his blood had been redeemed from the earth. 4 These
did not make an audible sound. Similarly the souls are those who did not defile themselves with
under the altar need not be "alive" in order for their women, for they kept themselves pure. They
deaths and righteousness to be symbolically follow the Lamb wherever he goes. They
recognized. were purchased from among men and offered
as firstfruits to God and the Lamb. 5 No lie was
But there are other cases that are not so simple: found in their mouths; they are blameless. 6
Then I saw another angel flying in midair, and
9
After this I looked and there before me was a he had the eternal gospel to proclaim to those
great multitude that no one could count, from who live on the earth—to every nation, tribe,
every nation, tribe, people and language, language and people (Rev 14:1-6).
standing before the throne and in front of
the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and In these verses, Christ (the Lamb) is on Mount Zion—
were holding palm branches in their hands. which is on the earth. There is no mention of a "Mount
11
All the angels were standing around the Zion" in Heaven in Revelation. The 144,000 follow the
throne and around the elders and the four Lamb, so they must be where He is. Yet, the harpists
living creatures. They fell down on their faces playing and singing in verses 2 and 3 seem to be
before the throne and worshiped God, teaching a song to the 144,000. Are they hearing the
14
... "These are they who have come out of the heavenly song on the earth? Or did the Lamb take them
great tribulation; they have washed their robes back to Heaven. I cannot be sure.
and made them white in the blood of the
Lamb. 15 Therefore, they are before the 14:20
They were trampled in the winepress
throne of God and serve him day and night outside the city, and blood flowed out of the
in his temple; and he who sits on the throne press, rising as high as the horses’ bridles for a
will spread his tent over them. 16 Never again distance of 1,600 stadia. 15:1 I saw in heaven
will they hunger; never again will they thirst. another great and marvelous sign: seven angels
The sun will not beat upon them, nor any with the seven last plagues—last, because with
scorching heat. 17 For the Lamb at the center of them God’s wrath is completed. 2 And I saw
the throne will be their shepherd; he will lead what looked like a sea of glass mixed with
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 fire and, standing beside the sea, those who If you still have some doubt about this section, please
had been victorious over the beast and his reread the chapter Is David in Heaven?
image and over the number of his name. They
held harps given them by God 3 and sang the Fire is a Symbol of Judgment
song of Moses the servant of God and the song
of the Lamb: "Great and marvelous are your
Many scriptures show us that fire is a symbol of
deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are
judgment in the Bible. The Bible certainly talks about
your ways, King of the ages. 4 Who will not
many literal fires, but it also makes clear that many are
fear you, O Lord, and bring glory to your
symbolic. Fire burns things that are temporary in
name? For you alone are holy. All nations will
nature (straw, paper, wood, etc), but tends to
come and worship before you, for your
strengthen and purify things that are durable in nature
righteous acts have been revealed." 5 After this
(metal, glass, brick, etc.). This is a good analogy to the
I looked and in heaven the temple, that is, the
trial and judging process of God. We need to
tabernacle of the Testimony, was opened (Rev
understand this before we interpret every "judgment of
14:20-15:5)
fire" in the Bible as an eternal "hell fire".
Where are these harp players who were victorious over
This third I will bring into the fire; I will
the beast? Chapter 1, verse 20 clearly takes place on
refine them like silver and test them like gold.
the earth, but verse 1 mentions an angel in Heaven.
They will call on my name and I will answer
This sea of glass in verse 2 is mixed with fire—not the
them; I will say, "They are my people," and
same as the one in Revelation 4:6 which is "clear as
they will say, "The Lord is our God" (Zech
crystal". In verse 4, the nations come to worship the
13:9).
Lamb—probably on earth? Then verse 5 is clearly in
heaven, but it is introduced almost like a "change of
scene". Only a few verses later we find: But who can endure the day of his coming?
Who can stand when he appears? For he will
be like a refiner’s fire or a launderer’s soap.
Then I heard a voice from heaven say, "Write:
He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; he
Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from
will purify the Levites and refine them like
now on." "Yes," says the Spirit, "they will rest
gold and silver. Then the Lord will have men
from their labor, for their deeds will follow
who will bring offerings in righteousness (Mal
them" (Rev 14:13).
3:2-3).
Here, as in most of the scripture, the dead are pictured
Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the
as resting or asleep. One of the most detailed chapters
fiery trial which is to try you, as though some
about the resurrection of the dead is Revelation 20.
strange thing happened to you (1Pet 4:12,
Certainly some verses of Revelation could be
NKJV).
interpreted to say that there are people in heaven—but
we are dealing with a highly symbolic book. There are
no scriptures that clearly say, "Righteous people go to For no one can lay any foundation other than
heaven when they die." Nor are there any scriptures the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. If
that describe deceased righteous people watching over any man builds on this foundation using gold,
living people, talking to God, etc. silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, his
work will be shown for what it is, because the
Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed
Numerous studies have been made where people have
with fire, and the fire will test the quality of
promised to contact living friends or relatives after
each man’s work (1Cor 3:11-13).
they died (if possible), and no provable results have
been obtained. Some have advanced the theory that
when people die, they go to some kind of state where There are many other scriptures in the Bible where fire
they are alive but unable to communicate with either is used as a symbol of judgment, though it is not
God or the Earth in any way. If this is true, but God has specifically explained. The first judgment in the Bible
not told us about it, then it is impossible to study or is against Adam and Eve for their sin. How does God
confirm because by its own definition, we cannot mark this judgment?
communicate with it to find out anything about it.
65
 So the Lord God banished him [Adam] from of fire age-during, justice suffering (Jude 1:7,
the Garden of Eden to work the ground from YLT).
which he had been taken. After he drove the
man out, he placed on the east side of the This fire ended the age of those cities, they burned up
Garden of Eden cherubim and a flaming ending the lives of those people at that time. But they
sword flashing back and forth to guard the will live again in a future age, another time of
way to the tree of life (Gen 3:23-24). judgment:

Much later, God began to work with Abraham, the I tell you the truth, it will be more bearable for
father of the faithful (Rom 4:16). God told Abraham to Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment
"Leave your country, your people and your father’s than for that town (Matt 10:15).
household and go to the land I will show you" (Gen
12:1). Where did Abraham leave from? He left from The very same expression "age-during fire" is found in
the city of "Ur". What does "Ur" mean? A Bible other verses in Young’s Literal Translation, but the
dictionary or concordance will show that it means New International Version unfortunately translates it
"flame". The Bible does not say that Ur was destroyed "eternal fire":
by flame, but Abraham had to leave that godless city.
If your hand or your foot causes you to sin cut
Later, God told righteous Lot to leave the corrupt city it off and throw it away. It is better for you to
of Sodom (Gen 19; Luke 17:29). "Sodom" means enter life maimed or crippled than to have two
"burning". In this case, God actually sent "fire and hands or two feet and be thrown into eternal
brimstone" from Heaven to destroy the city. An [age-during (YLT)] fire (Matt 18:8).
interesting comment is made about this fire in the book
of Jude: Then he will say to those on his left, "Depart
from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal
In a similar way, Sodom and Gomorrah and [age-during (YLT)] fire prepared for the devil
the surrounding towns gave themselves up to and his angels" (Matt 25:41).
sexual immorality and perversion. They serve
as an example of those who suffer the These verses show that the fire represents a judgment
punishment of eternal fire (Jude 1:7). that ends an age, but not necessarily eternal, nor
necessarily a final end. There are other scriptures that
Is the fire of Sodom still burning? Are the people specifically spell out when people are raised from the
suffering? No, it burned out and the people are dead. dead and what can happen to them.
The expression "eternal fire" is probably a mistake in
Bible translation. Most Bible translators believe in an Let us look at some of the many more examples where
ever-burning Hell, so they tended to write "ever- fire represents judgment, and then conclude this
lasting" or "ever-burning" when the Greek word section with the biblical explanation of why fire is used
aionios (Strong’s #166) is used in conjunction with as such a symbol:
fire. However aionios simply means "age-lasting" (or
"age-during" in Young’s Literal Translation)— O house of David, this is what the Lord says:
referring to the end of a particular thing of long "Administer justice every morning; rescue
duration. The same Greek word, aionios, is also used from the hand of his oppressor the one who has
for the expression "eternal life". Here, "eternal" been robbed, or my wrath will break out and
probably is a good translation since the God’s burn like fire because of the evil you have
"kingdom will never end" (Luke 1:33). No verse done—burn with no one to quench it" (Jer
mentions any fire that will "never end". Young’s literal 21:12).
translation has this verse correct:
And then the lawless one will be revealed,
As Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities whom the Lord will consume with the breath
around them, in like manner to these, having of His mouth and destroy with the brightness
given themselves to whoredom, and gone after of His coming (2Thes 2:8, NKJV).
other flesh, have been set before—an example,

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 5
For the Lord your God is a consuming fire, a For John baptized with water, but in a few
jealous God (Deut 4:24). days you will be baptized with the Holy
Spirit." 6 So when they met together, they
The above verse is quoted in the New Testament, asked him, "Lord, are you at this time going to
below: restore the kingdom to Israel?" 7 He said to
them: "It is not for you to know the times or
25
See to it that you do not refuse him [God] dates the Father has set by his own authority.
8
who speaks. If they did not escape when they But you will receive power when the Holy
refused him who warned them on earth, how Spirit comes on you; and you will be my
much less will we, if we turn away from him witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and
who warns us from heaven? 26 At that time his Samaria, and to the ends of the earth" (Acts
voice shook the earth, but now he has 1:5-8).
promised, "Once more I will shake not only
the earth but also the heavens." 27 The words But Christ wished that the time for Him to come and
"once more" indicate the removing of what can judge, symbolized by fire, was soon. Notice this verse
be shaken—that is, created things—so that that concludes a most important section on judgment in
what cannot be shaken may remain. 28 the Bible:
Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom
that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and I have come to bring fire on the earth, and how
so worship God acceptably with reverence and I wish it were already kindled! (Luke 12:49).
awe, 29 for our "God is a consuming fire"
(Heb 12:25-29). Another commonly misunderstood scripture:
6
The above verses clearly relate fire to judgment and By these waters also the world of that time
rulership. was deluged and destroyed. 7 By the same
word the present heavens and earth are
I saw heaven standing open and there before reserved for fire, being kept for the day of
me was a white horse, whose rider is called judgment and destruction of ungodly men.
8
Faithful and True. With justice he judges and But do not forget this one thing, dear friends:
makes war. His eyes are like blazing fire, and With the Lord a day is like a thousand years,
on his head are many crowns. He has a name and a thousand years are like a day. 9 The Lord
written on him that no one knows but he is not slow in keeping his promise, as some
himself (Rev 19:11-12). understand slowness. He is patient with you,
not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone
I baptize you with water for repentance. But to come to repentance. 10 But the day of the
after me will come one who is more powerful Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will
than I, whose sandals I am not fit to carry. He disappear with a roar; the elements will be
will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with destroyed by fire, and the earth and
fire (Matt 3:11, similar in Luke 3:16). everything in it will be laid bare. 11 Since
everything will be destroyed in this way, what
Many scriptures show that Christ has a first and second kind of people ought you to be? You ought to
coming. John said that He would baptize with both the live holy and godly lives 12 as you look
Holy Spirit and with fire. When Christ came the first forward to the day of God and speed its
time, He left the gift of the Holy Spirit (John 16:7). coming. That day will bring about the
The next time He comes, it will be for judgment and destruction of the heavens by fire, and the
rulership—with fire. Notice the verse below, Jesus told elements will melt in the heat. 13 But in
that the baptism of the Holy Spirit would be coming, keeping with his promise we are looking
and then His disciples immediately asked Him about forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the
the rulership part. Christ told them that they did not home of righteousness. 14 So then, dear friends,
need to know when that would come. since you are looking forward to this, make
every effort to be found spotless, blameless
and at peace with him (2Pet 3:6-14).

67
Some people believe this scripture is about the new many other such examples in our language. We have to
heavens and earth in Revelation chapter 22. But the communicate with the words available to us.
time looks more like the return of Christ, from the
underlined portions of the verses, above. The Greek The three Greek words translated "Hell" in the KJV
word stoicheion (Strong’s #4747) used here for New Testament are hades (used 11 times for the
"elements" means physical elements in other Greek "grave" or the Greek "realm of the dead"), Gehenna
literature (earth, air, water and fire), but never seems to (used 12 times for a "burning garbage dump") and
be used that way in the Bible. The other five places it is tartarus (used 1 time for a place where fallen angels
used, it means "basic principles" or "governing law". In are confined).
four places (Gal 4:3,9; Col 2:8,20) it refers to worldly
principles, and in one place the principles of God (Heb Please try to throw away previous preconceived ideas
5:12). The meaning here is not "the destruction of the and read what the Bible says.
universe as we know it" because that does not fit the
timing of the other prophecies about Christ returning as The Hebrew sheol Used 65 Times
"a thief" (1Thes 5:1-11; Rev 3:3; 16:15). It fits much
better with the "elements"—the foundational laws and
political and military systems of man being destroyed In most Bibles, there is only one Old Testament
by the judgment of the returning Christ. All the evil Hebrew word that is translated "hell": sheol (Strong’s
secrets will be "laid bare" by Christ. Fire is again a #7585). In the King James Version, it is translated
symbol of judgment here. "hell" 31 times, "grave" 31 times and "pit" 3 times.
However, all of these scriptures will make sense if one
The final scripture in the Bible which speaks of fire reads "grave" wherever sheol appears. The NIV
and judgment is in Revelation 21. It clearly shows that translates sheol as "grave" in nearly every case. Some
this final fire is a "second death", not an eternity of versions, such as the NKJV and NRSV actually say
suffering. "Sheol" and let the reader decide what it means. There
is no verse about anyone eternally suffering or for that
matter, doing anything in sheol. It is nothing like
But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable,
Dante’s Inferno.
murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers,
idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in
the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, All the verses containing sheol are: Gen 37:35; 42:38;
which is the second death (Rev 21:8, NKJV). 44:29,31; Num 16:30,33; Deut 32:22; 1Sam 2:6; 2Sam
22:6; 1Kngs 2:6,9; Job 7:9; 11:8; 14:13; 17:13,16;
21:13; 24:19; 26:6; Pslm 6:5; 9:17; 16:10; 18:5; 30:3;
Verses Mentioning “Hell” 31:17; 49:14,15; 55:15; 86:13; 88:3; 89:48; 116:3;
139:8; 141:7; Prv 1:12; 5:5; 7:27; 9:18; 15:11,24;
The Bible contains a number of different expressions 23:14; 27:20; 30:16; Eccl 9:10; Isa 5:14; 14:9,11,15;
for the place of the dead or various places of 28:15,18; Isa 38:10,18; Isa 57:9; Ezk 31:15,16,17; 0;
punishment. Before reading this section, please read Hos 13:14; Amos 9:2; Jonah 2:2; Hab 2:5.
the main section, What About Hell?, beginning on page
* and the previous section, Fire is a Symbol of Some sample uses of sheol are:
Judgment, beginning on page *. This section and the
next two will cover virtually all of the scriptures that But Jacob said, "My son will not go down
mention "hell" and other places of the "dead" or there with you; his brother is dead and he is the
punishment. The reader may be surprised to find how only one left. If harm comes to him on the
many words from Greek mythology show up in the journey you are taking, you will bring my gray
Greek New Testament. This does not mean that Christ head down to the grave in sorrow" (Gen
and the Apostles were teaching Greek mythology. But 42:38).
sometimes, the only common word in a language to
express an idea comes from its religion. In our own Jacob is going to be "in the Kingdom" (Luke 13:28).
language, we could say "the fifth day of the week", but He did not "go to hell". This verse at the other end of
we almost always say "Thursday", even though it the Old Testament is similar:
means Thor’s day (Thor was a Norse god). There are

68
 I will ransom them from the power of the Then He is gracious to him, and says, "Deliver
grave; I will redeem them from death. Where, him from going down to the Pit; I have found
O death, are your plagues? Where, O grave, is a ransom" (Job 33:24, NKJV)
your destruction? I will have no compassion
(Hosea 13:14). He will redeem his soul from going down to
the Pit, And his life shall see the light (Job
At times, the King James version seems to be seriously 33:28, NKJV).
distorted in an effort to support the idea of an ever-
burning hell. Most modern translations are much more To bring back his soul from the Pit, That he
faithful to the Hebrew. Notice: may be enlightened with the light of life (Job
33:30, NKJV).
The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all
the nations that forget God (Pslm 9:17, KJV). For you do not give me up to Sheol, or let your
faithful one see the Pit (Pslm 16:10, NRSV).
The wicked return to the grave, all the
nations that forget God (Pslm 9:17, NIV). What profit is there in my death, if I go down
to the Pit? Will the dust praise you? Will it tell
The sorrows of hell compassed me about: the of your faithfulness? (Pslm 30:9, NRSV).
snares of death prevented me (Pslm 18:5,
KVJ). Truly, no ransom avails for one’s life, there is
no price one can give to God for it. For the
The cords of the grave coiled around me; the ransom of life is costly, and can never suffice
snares of death confronted me (Pslm 18:5). that one should live on forever and never see
the grave (Pslm 49:7-9, NRSV).
The Hebrew schachath Used 23 Times
But You, O God, shall bring them down to the
A second Hebrew word for a place of death is pit of destruction; Bloodthirsty and deceitful
schachath (Strong’s #7845), though it is not translated men shall not live out half their days; But I
"hell’ in most Bibles. Sometimes it means a literal pit will trust in You (Pslm 55:23, NKJV).
or whole in the ground (Job 9:31; Job 17:14; Pslm
7:15; 9:15; 35:7; 94:13; Prv 26:27; Ezk 19:4,8). Here is Who redeems your life from the Pit, who
one example: crowns you with steadfast love and mercy
(Pslm 103:4, NRSV).
Whoever digs a pit will fall into it, And he
who rolls a stone will have it roll back on him Indeed it was for my own peace That I had
(Prv 26:27, NKJV). great bitterness; But You have lovingly
delivered my soul from the pit of corruption,
The word schachath is also used in a symbolic fashion For You have cast all my sins behind Your
to represent a place of death or destruction. It is still back (Isa 38:17, NKJV).
commonly translated "the Pit", but some Bibles
capitalize it as if it were a specific place (though there The captive exile hastens, that he may be
is no capitalization in the Hebrew). All of the other loosed, That he should not die in the pit, And
occurrences of schachath are included below. Clearly, that his bread should not fail (Isa 51:14,
none the examples picture ongoing activity in "the Pit", NKJV)
but it represents death—and end of life.
They shall throw you down into the Pit, And
He keeps back his soul from the Pit, And his you shall die the death of the slain In the midst
life from perishing by the sword (Job 33:18, of the seas (Ezk 28:8, NKJV).
NKJV).
At the roots of the mountains. I went down to
Yes, his soul draws near the Pit, And his life the land whose bars closed upon me forever;
to the executioners (Job 33:22, NKJV).
69
 yet you brought up my life from the Pit, O following close behind him. They were given
Lord my God (Jonah 2:6, NRSV). power over a fourth of the earth to kill by
sword, famine and plague, and by the wild
The Greek hades Used 11 Times beasts of the earth (Rev 6:8).

In the New Testament, the Greek hades (Strong’s #86) The sea gave up the dead that were in it, and
means the "realm of the dead" without regard to good death and Hades gave up the dead that were in
or bad. It appears 11 times and is always translated them, and each person was judged according to
"hell" in the King James. However, its meaning what he had done. Then death and Hades were
appears to simply be "the grave"—many Bibles thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is
translate it that way. We have included all of the verses the second death (Rev 20:13-14).
using hades from the NIV, which is not very
consistent, as it translates them to "the grave", "the Of interest, the Greek mnemeion (Strong’s #3419)
depths" and "death"—and does not translate some, but means a memorial-type grave and is usually translated
leaves them "Hades". "tomb" or "sepulchre" in most Bibles. The word refers
to the structure whether there is anyone buried in it or
And you, Capernaum, will you be lifted up to not. It is used in Mark 16:2, 5; Luke 23:55; 24:12, 22,
the skies? No, you will go down to the depths. 24; John 11:31,38; 19:41,42; 20:1,3,4,6,8; Acts 13:29.
If the miracles that were performed in you had
been performed in Sodom, it would have The Greek Gehenna Used 12 Times
remained to this day (Matt 11:23).
Also in the New Testament, the Greek Gehenna
And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this (Strong’s #1067) is taken from the Hebrew name of the
rock I will build my church, and the gates of valley of Hinnom outside of Jerusalem where garbage
Hades will not overcome it (Matt 16:18). was thrown. It has nothing to do with Greek
mythology, but is consistently translated "hell" by most
And you, Capernaum, will you be lifted up to Bible versions. The word "hell" makes English
the skies? No, you will go down to the depths speaking people think of a hot place where people
(Luke 10:15). suffer forever, but it is extremely unlikely that
Gehenna meant that to any first-century believers.
In hell, where he was in torment, he looked up
and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by Included in the trash of Gehenna were the bodies of
his side (Luke 16:23). dead animals and the bodies of criminals not deserving
a burial. Those who were literally thrown into Gehenna
because you will not abandon me to the grave, were rejected by men, not necessarily by God. For
nor will you let your Holy One see decay (Acts sanitary reasons, the valley was frequently set on fire.
2:27). Did the things that were thrown into the valley burn
forever? No they were burned up. Were the fires of
Seeing what was ahead, he spoke of the Gehenna ever quenched to spare things in the valley?
resurrection of the Christ, that he was not No. They burned until they burned out. This
abandoned to the grave, nor did his body see information is helpful to understand this verse:
decay (Acts 2:31).
And if thine eye may cause thee to stumble,
"Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O cast it out; it is better for thee one-eyed to enter
death, is your sting?" (1Cor 15:55) into the reign of God, than having two eyes, to
be cast to the gehenna of the fire—where their
I am the Living One; I was dead, and behold I worm is not dying, and the fire is not being
am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys quenched (Mark 9:47-48,YLT);
of death and Hades (Rev 1:18).
Does this mean that people were to burn forever in
I looked, and there before me was a pale horse! fire? Does it mean that there are worms that live
forever and never die? No! Fires in garbage dumps
Its rider was named Death, and Hades was
70
tend to burn slowly, wandering into areas where new a son of hell [Gehenna] as you are (Matt
fuel has been added. A body thrown into Gehenna 23:15).
might be destroyed by worms or fire, depending upon
which got to it first. The point of the verse is that a "You snakes! You brood of vipers! How will
person thrown into Gehenna will not be rescued. you escape being condemned to hell?
Matthew more clearly states that a person will be [Gehenna] (Matt 23:33)
destroyed in Gehenna:
If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is
‘And be not afraid of those killing the body, better for you to enter life maimed than with
and are not able to kill the soul, but fear rather two hands to go into hell [Gehenna], where the
Him who is able both soul and body to destroy fire never goes out (Mark 9:43).
in gehenna’ (Matt 10:28, YLT).
And if your foot causes you to sin, cut it off. It
The Gehenna fire certainly matches the consistent is better for you to enter life crippled than to
biblical use of fire as a symbol of judgment. It also have two feet and be thrown into hell
portends the destruction of the wicked who do not [Gehenna] (Mark 9:45)
repent. It does not portray suffering forever. After God
allowed the Romans to destroy Jerusalem and But I will show you whom you should fear:
depopulate it in 70 A.D., the fires of Gehenna Fear him who, after the killing of the body, has
ceased—that age was over. power to throw you into hell [Gehenna]. Yes, I
tell you, fear him (Luke 12:5).
Here are all of the other scriptures that use Gehenna:
The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among
But I tell you that anyone who is angry with the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole
his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, person, sets the whole course of his life on fire,
anyone who says to his brother, ‘Raca, ‘is and is itself set on fire by hell [Gehenna]
answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who (Luke 12:5).
says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire
of hell [Gehenna] (Matt 5:22). The Greek tartarus Used Only One Place
in the Bible:
If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out
and throw it away. It is better for you to lose For if God did not spare the angels when they
one part of your body than for your whole sinned, but condemned them to the chains of
body to be thrown into hell [Gehenna] (Matt Tartarus and handed them over to be kept for
5:29). judgment; (2Pet 2:4, NAB)

And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it The Greek word tartarus is used in Greek mythology
off and throw it away. It is better for you to as a lower section of hades reserved for punishment for
lose one part of your body than for your whole evil, disobedient spirits. In Greek mythology, Tartarus
body to go into hell [Gehenna] (Matt 5:30). might be likened to the common concept of "hell"—an
awful place with endless suffering. However, the Bible
And if your eye causes you to sin, gouge it out never mentions any people going there. Apparently, the
and throw it away. It is better for you to enter fallen angels, or demons, have deceived many people
life with one eye than to have two eyes and be into thinking that they will receive the fallen angels’
thrown into the fire of hell [Gehenna] (Matt punishment! The Bible never recommends prison or
18:9). continual torment as a punishment for sin. It teaches
that people should overcome their problems and work
"Woe to you, teachers of the law and to compensate those whom they have injured or from
Pharisees, you hypocrites! You travel over whom they have stolen.
land and sea to win a single convert, and when
he becomes one, you make him twice as much This concludes the words that have been translated
"hell" in the King James Bible. However, there are far

71
more words that are used to describe a place of holding The rest of the references to the Abyss are in
or trial after death. Revelation. It is a place where the Devil and his
demons are sometimes confined, and other times from
Other Words for “Places” or “States” of which they are released.
Trial and Punishment
The fifth angel sounded his trumpet, and I saw
a star [symbol for an angel] that had fallen
Greek abussos ("Abyss") Used 9 Times from the sky to the earth. The star was given
the key to the shaft of the Abyss. When he
The Greek word abussos (Strong’s #12) is from Greek opened the Abyss, smoke rose from it like the
mythology. It is supposed to be the lowest part of smoke from a gigantic furnace. The sun and
hades (the realm of the dead). It is more of a place of sky were darkened by the smoke from the
confinement than a place of punishment as tartarus, Abyss. And out of the smoke locusts came
above. The concept of an Abyss also shows up in down upon the earth and were given power
Jewish mythology. The King James Version and many like that of scorpions of the earth.... They had
other translations use the words "bottomless pit" or as king over them the angel of the Abyss,
"the deep"—most other translations say "Abyss" in all whose name in Hebrew is Abaddon, and in
9 places the word is used. Greek, Apollyon (Rev 9:1-3,11).

Some pagan religions of the first century had the idea Now when they have finished their testimony,
that it was necessary for a hero to ascend to heaven to the beast that comes up from the Abyss will
bring one of the gods down to earth—or to go down attack them, and overpower and kill them (Rev
into the Abyss to bring him up from where he was 11:7).
imprisoned. Paul had to refute this pagan idea so that
people would not bring it into Christianity: The beast, which you saw, once was, now is
not, and will come up out of the Abyss and go
But the righteousness of faith speaks in this to his destruction. The inhabitants of the earth
way, "Do not say in your heart, ‘Who will whose names have not been written in the
ascend into heaven?’ (that is, to bring Christ book of life from the creation of the world will
down from above) or, ‘Who will descend into be astonished when they see the beast, because
the abyss?’ (that is, to bring Christ up from the he once was, now is not, and yet will come
dead)." But what does it say? "The word is (Rev 17:8).
near you, in your mouth and in your heart"
(that is, the word of faith which we preach) And I saw an angel coming down out of
(Rom 10:6-8, NKJV). heaven, having the key to the Abyss and
holding in his hand a great chain. He seized the
Paul needed to clearly show them that they had access dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil,
to Christ now, there was no need for somebody to do or Satan, and bound him for a thousand years.
some "great thing" first. Other references to the Abyss He threw him into the Abyss, and locked and
all regard the Devil and his demons. Apparently, they sealed it over him, to keep him from deceiving
normally have access to the earth (Job 1:7) and are the nations anymore until the thousand years
allowed to lie and cause a certain amount of trouble for were ended. After that, he must be set free for
people (John 8:44; 1Pet 5:8)—but only within limits a short time (Rev 20:1-3).
God places on them (Job 1:12). If they try to go against
specific commands of God, then they can be sent to
"the Abyss" as a prison:
The Greek phulake ("prison") Used 4
Times
Jesus asked him, "What is your name?"
"Legion," he replied, because many demons The Greek phulake usually means a literal "prison" or a
had gone into him. And they begged him "night watch". It is used 43 times in a clear sense like
repeatedly not to order them to go into the this. However, four times, it is used as a "prison" for
Abyss (Luke 8:30-31). Satan and his demons. This is simply another way of
talking about the Abyss. In Revelation 20:3, above,

72
Satan is put in the Abyss for 1000 years, and then he is before Peter wrote this. The spirits were put in this
released from "his prison": prison (the Abyss) to restrain their disobedience.

When the thousand years are over, Satan will "Eternal Destruction" Phrase Used Once
be released from his prison (Rev 20:7).
These shall be punished with everlasting
And he cried mightily with a loud voice, destruction from the presence of the Lord and
saying, "Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, from the glory of His power (2Thes 1:9,
and has become a dwelling place of demons, a NKJV).
prison for every foul spirit, and a cage [same
Greek phulake—"prison"] for every unclean The word for "destruction" above is the Greek olethros
and hated bird! (Rev 18:2.) (Strong’s #3639) which means, according to every
18
lexicon I found, "destruction" or "ceasing to exist".
For Christ died for sins once for all, the Several lexicons claimed that Paul was clarifying it by
righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to saying that it was really "separation from the presence
God. He was put to death in the body but made of the Lord", but the meaning of the Greek appears to
alive by the Spirit, 19 through whom also he mean "destruction (that comes from) the presence of
went and preached to the spirits in prison 20 the Lord". This is in exact agreement with:
who disobeyed long ago when God waited
patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was And then the lawless one will be revealed,
being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, whom the Lord will consume with the breath
were saved through water, 21 and this water of His mouth and destroy with the brightness
symbolizes baptism that now saves you also— of His coming (2Thes 2:8, NKJV).
not the removal of dirt from the body but the
pledge of a good conscience toward God. It
These and other scriptures seem to indicate that Satan
saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ
and his demons will be destroyed forever. Others seem
(1Pet 3:18).
to indicate that he will be restrained forever. This
writer is certain, though, that this question has so little
The last passage, above, contains very long sentences effect upon us today that it is not worth one believer
and can be hard to follow. Some Bible teachers claim losing one friend over it. We should not let Satan
that it means Christ preached to "spirits in prison" divide us over which of two miserable outcomes he
during the three days between his death and will receive.
resurrection. Actually, this passage is drawing the
relationship between two things:
For more about what will happen to the Devil and his
demons, see the section titled Angels Judged, Also
1) The physical ark and the flood at the time of Noah beginning on page *. The rest of the words used for
and the corresponding spiritual event of putting evil places of punishment all apply to people to some
spirits in prison. degree.
2) The current physical practice of baptism and the
corresponding spiritual events: the sacrifice of Christ
"Eternal Fire" or "Age-during Fire
for sins, the giving of the Holy Spirit, and the salvation Phrase Used 3 Times
of individuals.
Page * contains the explanation of the Greek word
Noah’s flood was a type of baptism for the world: the aionios. It is translated "eternal", but more accurately
sinful people died—which was all but eight people. means "age-lasting" or "age-during" as Young’s Literal
Similarly, when we are baptized, the sin in us dies, and Translation translates it. The YLT uses King James
we ask Christ to take over the little that is left. The ark English and is difficult to read in these verses, so we
represents Christ—both represent God’s method of inserted its word ("age-during") into the appropriate
salvation. The evil spirits disobeyed "long ago", places in the NIV:
probably before the flood—not when Christ died,
which would have been only about 20 to 30 years

73
 If your hand or your foot causes you to sin cut than the refining or purifying ones. For example, the
it off and throw it away. It is better for you to fire and sulfur that rained on Sodom and Gomorrah did
enter life maimed or crippled than to have two not correct the people, but killed them (though they
hands or two feet and be thrown into eternal will live again—Matt 10:15). The sulfur fires below
[age-during] fire (Matt 18:8). seem to deal more with destruction than with
correction.
Then he will say to those on his left, "Depart
from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal And the beast was captured, and with it the
[age-during] fire prepared for the devil and his false prophet who had performed in its
angels [messengers]" (Matt 25:41). presence the signs by which he deceived those
who had received the mark of the beast and
In a similar way, Sodom and Gomorrah and those who worshiped its image. These two
the surrounding towns gave themselves up to were thrown alive into the lake of fire that
sexual immorality and perversion. They serve burns with sulfur (Rev 19:20, NRSV).
as an example of those who suffer the
punishment of eternal [age-during] fire (Jude And the devil who had deceived them was
1:7). thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur, where
the beast and the false prophet were, and they
As previously noted, the "age-during fire" of Sodom will be tormented day and night forever and
and Gomorrah is not burning forever—those people ever.... Then Death and Hades were thrown
and their cities were destroyed, the fire burnt out and into the lake of fire. This is the second death,
they are awaiting judgment (Matt 10:15). The other the lake of fire; and anyone whose name was
two passages, above, may refer to a similar temporary not found written in the book of life was
judgment, or they may refer to an eternal "second thrown into the lake of fire (Rev 20:10,14-15).
death". In any case, I would hope we would all want to
avoid either one! But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the
polluted, the murderers, the fornicators, the
While it may appear that Matt 25:41 applies just to sorcerers, the idolaters, and all liars, their place
Satan and his demons, the context of that verse is will be in the lake that burns with fire and
"people who have not helped others" (see quote on sulfur, which is the second death (Rev 21:8,
page *). The Greek aggelos (Strong’s #32) is used for NRSV).
both human and divine messengers. The YLT says
"messengers" in this verse. This fire is reserved for the Sometimes, Revelation 20:10 (above) is used as a
devil and those who follow him. proof that people suffer in hell forever. The KJV and
other translations say "the lake of fire and brimstone,
"Lake of fire" Used Five Times in where the beast and the false prophet are"—implying
that they were still in the fire (having been thrown in
Revelation Rev 19:20). But "are" is an incorrect translation. The
NRSV and other translations correctly say "were" (past
The Book of Revelation refers to a "lake of fire" five tense) or something similar.
times—in three different places. This lake burns with
sulfur (called "brimstone" in the King James). Why is The last two verses clearly say that this "lake of fire" is
sulfur mentioned? Sulfur is occasionally mentioned in the second death. This seems like a final judgment—
other "judgment of fire" scriptures—including Sodom not a corrective judgment. Revelation 20:14 says that
and Gomorrah (Gen 19:24, Pslm 11:6; Isa 30:33; Ezk "death and Hades" were thrown into the lake of fire.
38:22; Rev 9:17-18; 14:10). Sulfur is used in the This appears to mean that death (the action of
process of refining metals. It is also important to humans, made in the image of God, dying) and
realize that metal-refining fires were the hottest fires Hades (the existence of dead humans with an as-yet
known to the ancient world. They were created in uncertain fate) will be over. Those two things which
specially-designed furnaces with air being forced in. both presently exist will exist no more. This fits well
with this verse:
These "fires burning with sulfur" seemed to be
emphasizing the destructive aspects of the fire far more

74
 He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There And the angels who did not keep their
will be no more death or mourning or crying or positions of authority but abandoned their own
pain, for the old order of things has passed home—these he has kept in darkness, bound
away (Rev 21:4). with everlasting chains for judgment on the
great Day (Jude 1:6).
"Darkness" Scriptures using "Zophos"
These men are blemishes at your love feasts,
In great contrast to hot fires, we also find Scriptures eating with you without the slightest qualm—
that talk about "darkness" as a place for the shepherds who feed only themselves. They are
unrepentant. Whether there is a literal place of clouds without rain, blown along by the wind;
darkness or if this is a symbol of spiritual darkness, is autumn trees, without fruit and uprooted—
not clear. There are many Bible analogies to "light" twice dead. 13 They are wild waves of the sea,
being good and "darkness" being evil: "...God is light; foaming up their shame; wandering stars, for
in him there is no darkness at all (1Jn 1:5). One Greek whom blackest darkness has been reserved
word for "darkness" is zophos (Strong’s #2217). It forever ["to the age" in the YLT] (Jude 1:12).
means the "darkness and gloom of the nether world"—
another Greek mythology word. It is used only in the The reference in Jude 1:6 says they are "awaiting
following scriptures. When it appears as "blackest judgment", so this zophos darkness is not some kind of
darkness", below, it is used along with another Greek "eternal punishment" place. The expression "twice
word for "darkness", skotos (Strong’s #4655). dead" does not seem to mean the "second death" as it
appears that the people spoken of are still alive when
This place or state is apparently reserved for those who Jude was writing about them. Rather "twice dead"
deliberately teach and practice error—knowing the means that they have sinned, deserving death, received
truth. It seems that these scriptures refer both to men life from Christ, then rejected that, and are hence
and to the fallen angels—demons. "dead" again.

For if God did not spare the angels who "Outer darkness", Where There Will be
sinned, but cast them down to hell [tartarus] "weeping and gnashing of teeth"
and delivered them into chains of darkness, to
be reserved for judgment (2Pet 2:4, NKJV). The expression "outer darkness" is used for people
who are not ready to go into the kingdom, but are not
17
These men are springs without water and the people who are knowingly evil as described in the
mists driven by a storm. Blackest darkness is "zophos darkness" verses above. Indeed, these verses
reserved for them. 18 For they mouth empty, describe people who thought they should have been in
boastful words and, by appealing to the lustful the Kingdom, but were not allowed in:
desires of sinful human nature, they entice
people who are just escaping from those who And I say to you that many will come from
live in error. 19 They promise them freedom, east and west, and sit down with Abraham,
while they themselves are slaves of Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. 12
depravity—for a man is a slave to whatever But the sons of the kingdom will be cast out
has mastered him. 20 If they have escaped the into outer darkness. There will be weeping
corruption of the world by knowing our Lord and gnashing of teeth (Matt 8:11, NKJV).
and Savior Jesus Christ and are again
entangled in it and overcome, they are worse But when the king came in to see the guests, he
off at the end than they were at the beginning. saw a man there who did not have on a
21
It would have been better for them not to wedding garment. So he said to him, "Friend,
have known the way of righteousness, than to how did you come in here without a wedding
have known it and then to turn their backs on garment?" And he was speechless. Then the
the sacred command that was passed on to king said to the servants, "Bind him hand and
them (2Pet 2:17-21). foot, take him away, and cast him into outer
darkness; there will be weeping and
gnashing of teeth" (Matt 22:11-13, NKJV)

75
 And cast the unprofitable servant into the throw them into the fiery furnace, where there
outer darkness. There will be weeping and will be weeping and gnashing of teeth (Matt
gnashing of teeth (Matt 25:30, NKJV). 13:41-42).
47
Some try to equate the "outer" part of "outer darkness" Once again, the kingdom of heaven is like a
with "outer space" or outside the universe—maybe net that was let down into the lake and caught
even in a "black hole". (A "black hole" is an all kinds of fish. 48 When it was full, the
astronomic body that is so large and has such powerful fishermen pulled it up on the shore. Then they
gravity that nothing physical can escape from it—not sat down and collected the good fish in
even light). While God certainly understands these baskets, but threw the bad away. 49 This is how
things and may have written about them in scripture, it will be at the end of the age. The angels will
this is probably not the meaning that was understood come and separate the wicked from the
when the New Testament was written. The expression righteous 50 and throw them into the fiery
is more likely about being shut out of a city where furnace, where there will be weeping and
there would be lights from fires and lamps on the gnashing of teeth (Matt 13:47-50).
inside, but none on the outside. Revelation 22:14-15 is
an example: "Blessed are those who wash their robes, Miscellaneous Weeping and Gnashing
that they may have the right to the tree of life and may
go through the gates into the city. Outside are the
of Teeth
dogs, those who practice magic arts, the sexually
immoral, the murderers, the idolaters and everyone There are two more scripture that mention "weeping
who loves and practices falsehood." and gnashing of teeth", but do not have "outer
darkness" or a "fiery furnace".
The "weeping and gnashing of teeth" comes about
from people who are on the outside, but wish they were And will cut him in two and appoint him his
inside. "Weeping" is an expression of sorrow that portion with the hypocrites. There shall be
things did not happen the way someone liked. It can weeping and gnashing of teeth (Matt 24:51).
include repentance—genuine admission of guilt and a 27
desire to change—or it can simply be sorrow that one But He will say, "I tell you I do not know
"got caught". "Gnashing of teeth" or "teeth grinding" you, where you are from. Depart from Me, all
usually comes with extreme emotional upset. Things you workers of iniquity." 28 There will be
are not going well for people in this condition. weeping and gnashing of teeth, when you see
Hopefully, they will think about repenting and looking Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the
to God. prophets in the kingdom of God, and
yourselves thrust out. 29 They will come from
"Fiery furnace" Where There Will Be the east and the west, from the north and the
south, and sit down in the kingdom of God. 30
"weeping and gnashing of teeth" And indeed there are last who will be first,
and there are first who will be last" (Luke
This "weeping and gnashing of teeth" mentioned above 13:27-30).
also occurs in a "fiery furnace". This is probably
symbolic in some way as one would not expect to see The expression "cut him in two" is probably symbolic
literal tears in the midst of a real burning fire. This of exposing their sin as we saw in the several scriptures
seems to be another place where fire symbolizes beginning with Isaiah 11:2 on page *. It is unlikely that
judgment. The situation seems to be similar to the the above verses mean people will be cut into two
previous section—the people were among believers or pieces but still literally live in order to cry and grind
thought they were believers, but Christ sent them out their teeth. The last wording again reminds us of the
of the Kingdom. They weep and grind their teeth time sequence going into the Kingdom of God. Those
because they hoped to be in the Kingdom. who are not ready, even though they may think they
are, will be "last" into the Kingdom.
The Son of Man will send out his angels, and
they will weed out of his kingdom everything Conclusion to "Punishment" Words
that causes sin and all who do evil. They will

76
So what good are all of these "punishment" words if also died and was buried. 23 In hell [hades],
we do not know exactly what could happen to us? If where he was in torment, he looked up and
we did completely understand them, would we try to saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his
structure our life so that we would avoid the side. 24 So he called to him, "Father Abraham,
punishments that sound the worst to us and maybe get have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip
one that we can handle better? We had better not! of his finger in water and cool my tongue,
because I am in agony in this fire." 25 But
God is interested in people who want to follow Him Abraham replied, "Son, remember that in your
with their whole heart (Matt 22:37-38)—not in people lifetime you received your good things, while
who want to sin as much as they can "get away with". Lazarus received bad things, but now he is
God wants to provide salvation to all through Christ comforted here and you are in agony. 26 And
and to make everyone righteous. besides all this, between us and you a great
chasm has been fixed, so that those who want
We can be assured from the Scriptures that the to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone
judgment of God will be fair, yet inescapable, and it cross over from there to us." 27 He answered,
will cover everything for which we have not repented "Then I beg you, father, send Lazarus to my
and judged ourselves (1Cor 11:31; 1Jn 1:9). We also father’s house, 28 for I have five brothers. Let
know that the more we sin, the more we will be judged, him warn them, so that they will not also come
and the more punishment we will receive—the longer to this place of torment." 29 Abraham replied,
it will take to be in the Kingdom of God. "They have Moses and the Prophets; let them
listen to them." 30 "No, father Abraham," he
We should live our lives to please God—which will said, "but if someone from the dead goes to
give us the most favorable eternal judgment. While them, they will repent." 31 He said to him, "If
eternal judgment may seem a long way off, it is in they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets,
many ways more real than the earth we stand on and they will not be convinced even if someone
the air we breathe. We can look at any living thing on rises from the dead" (Luke 16:19-31).
this earth and see a miracle—complexity far in excess
of anything that mere men have ever designed. Men Long after Jesus told this story, the Bible shows that
can map and alter the genes of a human, but they still Abraham was still dead, "in faith, not having received
can’t build bacteria from scratch. Whoever made the the promises" (Heb 11:13, NKJV). He is dead. Other
trillions of living things on this earth did all that work parables of Jesus show that the time when evildoers see
for a reason. Each time we see one of them, we should Abraham with God and themselves thrust out is in the
be reminded that we need to live our lives in future (Luke 13:23-39). When a real "Lazarus" died,
accordance with that purpose, not in rebellion to God, "Jesus said to her, ‘Your brother will rise again.’
our Father. Martha answered, ‘I know he will rise again in the
resurrection at the last day’" (John 11:23-24). That
Lazarus was not in a parable, and even though he was
Parable of Lazarus and the Rich Man
dead for four days, the Bible says nothing about him
going to "heaven" or "hell".
There is one more section of the Bible that seems to fit
with the traditional concepts of "Heaven" and "Hell". The question is, "Is Luke 16 a literal story of what
To some people, these verses, by themselves are happens at death, or is it another one of the symbolic
"proof" of the traditional teachings of "Heaven and parables of Jesus?" It is not specifically called a
Hell". Let us read them from Luke 16: parable, but there are other parables told in the nearby
19
chapters (Luke 15:3; 18:1,9). Furthermore, all of
There was a rich man who was dressed in Christ’s major teaching seems to be in parables:
purple and fine linen and lived in luxury every
day. 20 At his gate was laid a beggar named With many similar parables Jesus spoke the
Lazarus, covered with sores 21 and longing to word to them, as much as they could
eat what fell from the rich man’s table. Even understand. He did not say anything to them
the dogs came and licked his sores. 22"The time without using a parable. But when he was
came when the beggar died and the angels alone with his own disciples, he explained
carried him to Abraham’s side. The rich man everything (Mark 4:33-34).

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But would Luke, the Bible author, write a parable Concluding that "Lazarus and the Rich Man" is a
without telling us it is a parable? Yes, the parables of parable and not a literal story is in line with many other
the "two debtors" (Luke 7:41-47); the "friend at scriptures. Even if one does not accept this, the story
midnight" (Luke 11:5-8) and even the famous "good does not describe a "hell" with Satan, demons, and
Samaritan" (Luke 10:30-37) are not specifically eternal tortures, nor does it describe a "heaven" with
labeled "parables" in the Bible. Nor are all parables "St. Peter", clouds, harps and people with wings. It is
explained. much better understood as a parable.

So if this is a parable, what do the items in it represent? God’s “Book of Life” and Other Books
Lazarus obviously represents the poor and oppressed of
the world. The "rich man" represents those with power, How is God going to judge everyone? Is He going to
wealth and ability—those who could have made the ask them to remember what they did? Is he going to
world better, but used their capability to help tell them what they did from His memory? While I
themselves. The rich man was in Hades, the Greek have little doubt that God could remember it perfectly,
realm of the dead, which here represents the afterlife in it seems that he writes the important information in a
the second resurrection (see sections beginning on group of books:
pages * and *). Lazarus with Abraham pictures the
poor believers united with the great men of faith, such
And I saw the dead, great and small, standing
as Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, David, etc. (If this were a
before the throne, and books were opened.
literal story about Lazarus, would not Lazarus be
Another book was opened, which is the
pictured as being with Christ or all believers, rather
book of life. The dead were judged according
than just with Abraham?)
to what they had done as recorded in the
books (Rev 20:12).
Lazarus and Abraham have names in this parable—
they represent people who are known to God—whose
As I looked, thrones were set in place, and the
names are in the "book of life" (see section beginning
Ancient of Days took his seat. His clothing
on page *). The rich man is not given a name—he
was as white as snow; the hair of his head was
represents those who may have been well known in the
white like wool. His throne was flaming with
former life, but who in the latter resurrection will just
fire, and its wheels were all ablaze. A river of
be so many "former rich men". The "great chasm"
fire was flowing, coming out from before him.
between them and Lazarus is the difference between
Thousands upon thousands attended him; ten
the first and later resurrections. The two are
thousand times ten thousand stood before him.
separate. Indeed, there will be a time of judgment and
The court was seated, and the books were
possibly torment for those in the second resurrection
opened (Dan 7:9-10).
(see Scriptures About Punishment for Sin beginning on
page *).
The "book of life" is mentioned frequently in scripture,
as we shall see below. But what are the other books?
The fire in the above parable is a symbol of judgment
Jewish tradition indicates there is a "book of the dead"
(not Satan’s fire—note that Satan is not mentioned
(those for which there is no hope) and another book for
here at all). The rich man represents those being
those in between. It is possible that this tradition comes
judged—they wish that they could have lived this life
from something God told one of the prophets, but was
differently, so they would not have so much of a trial
not written in the Bible. I cannot find it in scripture. All
in the judgment. They think, "Could not someone have
we know is that there are other books. This Psalm
been sent back from the dead to warn those while they
indicates that there will be sentences written against
were living?" But people who are able to sin without
"bad" people when the saints judge them:
immediate punishment frequently continue to sin no
matter what kind of warning they have (Eccl 8:11). 5
Moses, the prophets, or even people’s own conscience Let the saints rejoice in this honor and sing
(Rom 2:15) give plenty of warning. The problem is for joy on their beds. 6 May the praise of God
that people do not seek Christ and follow it up with be in their mouths and a double-edged sword
action. Indeed, Christ did rise from the dead and warn in their hands, 7 to inflict vengeance on the
the living, and most continue living their own way. nations and punishment on the peoples, 8 to
bind their kings with fetters, their nobles with

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 shackles of iron, 9 to carry out the sentence Yes, and I ask you, loyal yokefellow, help
written against them. This is the glory of all these women who have contended at my side
his saints. Praise the Lord (Pslm 149:5-9). in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement
and the rest of my fellow workers, whose
It seems that the "book of life" is by far the most names are in the book of life (Phlp 4:3).
important book to God. It is mentioned by numerous
Bible writers, sometimes being referred to as "the To the church of the firstborn, whose names
book". Some writers hope that God will write people’s are written in heaven. You have come to God,
names in the book, others seem to know their name is the judge of all men, to the spirits of righteous
already in the book and ask Him not to take it out. men made perfect (Heb 12:23).

But now, please forgive their sin—but if not, All inhabitants of the earth will worship the
then blot me out of the book you have beast—all whose names have not been
written." The Lord replied to Moses, written in the book of life belonging to the
"Whoever has sinned against me I will blot Lamb that was slain from the creation of the
out of my book. Now go, lead the people to world (Rev 13:8).
the place I spoke of, and my angel will go
before you. However, when the time comes for The beast, which you saw, once was, now is
me to punish, I will punish them for their sin" not, and will come up out of the Abyss and go
(Ex 32:32-34). to his destruction. The inhabitants of the earth
whose names have not been written in the
You number my wanderings; Put my tears into book of life from the creation of the world will
Your bottle; Are they not in Your book? be astonished when they see the beast, because
(Pslm 56:8, NKJV.) he once was, now is not, and yet will come
(Rev 17:8).
Charge them with crime upon crime; do not let
them share in your salvation. May they be Then death and Hades were thrown into the
blotted out of the book of life and not be lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second
listed with the righteous (Pslm 69:27-28). death. If anyone’s name was not found written
in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake
Those who are left in Zion, who remain in of fire (Rev 20:14-15).
Jerusalem, will be called holy, all who are
recorded among the living in Jerusalem (Isa Nothing impure will ever enter it [the new
4:3, NIV). Jerusalem], nor will anyone who does what is
shameful or deceitful, but only those whose
At that time Michael, the great prince who names are written in the Lamb’s book of life
protects your people, will arise. There will be a (Rev 21:27).
time of distress such as has not happened from
the beginning of nations until then. But at that Finally, we might ask the question: what is the format
time your people—everyone whose name is of these books that will be used for judgment? Are they
found written in the book—will be delivered. huge scrolls that are miles long, or are they giant books
Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth with millions of pages? Is God limited by the
will awake: some to everlasting life, others to "technology" that was available when the Bible was
shame and everlasting contempt. Those who written? Obviously, we do not really know the format
are wise will shine like the brightness of the of the "books". But when God communicates with
heavens, and those who lead many to people, He frequently does it by "vision"—a sort of
righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever three-dimensional presentation with sound—it is as if
(Dan 12:1-3). the people are actually there. When men receive these
visions and need to record them, the best they can do is
However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit transfer it to books.
to you, but rejoice that your names are
written in heaven (Luke 10:20).

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 The whole vision has become to you like the demons know God exists, they just do not want to do
words of a book that is sealed (Isa 29:11, what He says!
NKJV).
You believe that there is one God. You do
The burden against Nineveh. The book of the well. Even the demons believe—and
vision of Nahum the Elkoshite (Nahum 1:1). tremble! (Jms 2:19, NKJV.)

Then the Lord answered me and said: "Write Christ’s words in the Gospels show that He frequently
the vision And make it plain on tablets, That had to deal with demons. They sought to find either a
he may run who reads it (Hab 2:2). person or an animal to "inhabit". They knew that their
time of judgment and punishment was coming. They
Is it possible that the "book of life" and other books were never the least bit interested in repenting or
from which people will be judged contain a complete obeying God, but seemed obsessed with simply not
vision—picture, sound, touch, taste and smell—not just receiving their punishment now.
writing? The only recording device available in the
8
first century was hand-writing—books. While the For Jesus had said to him, "Come out of this
Bible does not try to describe how these things are man, you evil spirit!" 9 Then Jesus asked him,
recorded (we really do not know), it is hard to believe "What is your name?" "My name is Legion,"
that mere humans with video cameras are recording he replied, "for we are many." 10 And he
events in more detail than God does! begged Jesus again and again not to send
them out of the area. 11 A large herd of pigs
Angels Judged Also was feeding on the nearby hillside. 12 The
demons begged Jesus, "Send us among the
pigs; allow us to go into them" (Mark 5:8-12)
The Bible clearly teaches that fallen angels know that
they will be judged and that believers will do it:
When an evil spirit comes out of a man, it
goes through arid places seeking rest and
Do you not know that the saints will judge the
does not find it. Then it says, "I will return to
world? And if you are to judge the world, are
the house [person] I left" (Luke 11:24).
you not competent to judge trivial cases? Do
you not know that we will judge angels?
How much more the things of this life! (1Cor When he arrived at the other side in the region
6:2-3.) of the Gadarenes, two demon-possessed men
coming from the tombs met him. They were so
violent that no one could pass that way. "What
We have already covered numerous scriptures about
do you want with us, Son of God?" they
punishment for sin and will not repeat them for brevity.
shouted. "Have you come here to torture us
(See the sections titled Scriptures About Punishment
before the appointed time?" (Matt 8:28).
for Sin, Verses Mentioning "Hell" and Other Words for
"Places" or "States" of Trial and Punishment) Some of
those verses clearly applied to Satan and his demons, He shouted at the top of his voice, "What do
others to people, and some to both. They show you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High
conclusively that Satan and his fallen angels (demons) God? Swear to God that you won’t torture
will be judged and punished. Some are being kept in me!" (Mark 5:7.)
"prison" awaiting punishment.
Where will the judgment of Satan and his demons take
When we think of an unrighteous person, we usually place? It seems that it will take place here on earth:
think of someone who does not "believe in God" at all.
As humans, that is possible to do if we do not "see" The great dragon was hurled down—that
Him every day. (We can see His creation, but our ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who
educational systems have gone to great effort to put a leads the whole world astray. He was hurled
scholarly stamp of approval on the otherwise ridiculous to the earth, and his angels with him (Rev
idea that the creation created itself!) But Satan and his 12:9).

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 Therefore rejoice, you heavens and you who are not going to do anything different based on our
dwell in them! But woe to the earth and the judgment, why make it?
sea, because the devil has gone down to you!
He is filled with fury, because he knows that This is why the scripture tells us not to judge so many
his time is short (Rev 12:12). times. Most of the time that we render judgments, they
are not necessary. We will cover the times when it is
Then another sign appeared in heaven: an necessary. But there is one thing that the scripture does
enormous red dragon with seven heads and ten tell us that we should never do in this life: eternally
horns and seven crowns on his heads. His tail condemn someone else:
swept a third of the stars out of the sky and
flung them to the earth (Rev 12:3-4). "Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do
not condemn, and you will not be
The third of the "stars" that were swept down from condemned. Forgive, and you will be
heaven are probably the fallen angels. Stars are often forgiven. (Luke 6:37).
used as a symbol for angels, usually righteous angels,
but sometimes bad: "wandering stars, for whom The Greek word for "condemn" here is katadikazo
blackest darkness has been reserved forever" (Jude (Strong’s #2613) which means "condemn as someone
1:13). definitely guilty and subject to punishment". It is used
in only 4 verses. Unfortunately, many translators
Situations Where We Must Judge Now inconsistently render the several other Greek words
sometimes as "judge", sometimes as "condemn" or
Christians sometimes say, "I don’t want to judge even other English words. Other places were the word
anyone—Christ will do the judging". They may cite "condemn" is used, it means an unfavorable judgment.
scriptures such as: The word katadikazo in the New Testament seems to
be used for either the death penalty or eternal
condemnation. Here are the other three verses:
Therefore judge nothing before the
appointed time; wait till the Lord comes. He
will bring to light what is hidden in darkness If you had known what these words mean, ‘I
and will expose the motives of men’s hearts. desire mercy, not sacrifice,’ you [the
At that time each will receive his praise from Pharisees] would not have condemned the
God (1Cor 4:5). innocent (Matt 12:7).

Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in But I tell you that men will have to give
the same way you judge others, you will be account on the day of judgment for every
judged, and with the measure you use, it will careless word they have spoken. For by your
be measured to you (Matt 7:1-2). words you will be acquitted, and by your
words you will be condemned (Matt 12:36-
37).
Those words sound quite definite. Yet, most of the rest
of this section will cover scriptures about the need to
judge others in some way. How can we reconcile the You have condemned and murdered innocent
two? men, who were not opposing you. Be patient,
then, brothers, until the Lord’s coming. See
how the farmer waits for the land to yield its
One hint comes in the last scripture. We will be judged
valuable crop and how patient he is for the
in the way that we judge others. Do we want to be
autumn and spring rains (Jms 5:6).
judged by some "passerby" who sees us do something,
asks few, if any, questions and then quickly renders a
judgment? Yet how often do we do this to others? How From these scriptures, it should be clear that we should
often do we render a judgment about someone with the not attempt to pronounce anyone’s eternal sentence.
few limited facts we may see on TV or in an article or Eternal judgment is Christ’s job. Nevertheless, there
heard from someone else? There are so many times in are many religious publications that claim those with
life where we make judgments that we do not have to certain doctrines or in certain groups cannot have
make—in matters that do not directly concern us. If we salvation. These publications may go to great lengths

81
and use hundreds of scriptures to "prove" their point. them and support them. This does not mean that we
Nevertheless, eternally condemning someone else abandon a teacher because he makes one mistake. The
seems like one of the most dangerous things we can do problems must be substantial. Paul had to correct Peter
in this life. To pronounce another individual or group one time for refusing to eat with Gentile believers (Gal
as "eternally worthless" to God represents an arrogant 2:11). Paul told Timothy:
spirit that "we know as much as God does". That may
be the attitude that He finds the most difficulty Do not entertain an accusation against an elder
working with. We cannot see other’s hearts and minds unless it is brought by two or three
and we just do not know them like God does. "...Do witnesses. Those who sin are to be rebuked
not [eternally] condemn, and you will not be publicly, so that the others may take warning
[eternally] condemned... (Luke 16:37). (1Tim 5:19-20).

This will not be an exhaustive study of all scriptures on The purpose of judging leaders now is to be sure they
judging others, but will cover the two main reasons we are good examples and not leading believers astray. It
need to judge others. The first one, nearly everyone is not to "snoop" into their business or to make us feel
does, even though they may not think about it. We better because "we know something bad that they did".
need to judge which Bible teachers we will listen to. Any false purpose for judging them will bring
The scriptures clearly show that there are false judgment upon those doing the judging. The chapters
teachers—even false apostles. We must examine their of 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1 give qualifications for
teaching and example to see if it agrees with the leaders in the Church.
scriptures.
The second main reason for judging is when one
For such men are false apostles, deceitful believer offends another. It may be a sin directly
workmen, masquerading as apostles of Christ. against us, or a sin that brings a bad name on our entire
And no wonder, for Satan himself congregation. Before we cover the scriptures on this,
masquerades as an angel of light (2Cor 11:13- please realize that there are hundreds of scriptures on
14). patience, love, forgiveness and mercy. Many little
offences and problems would be much better forgotten
Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but rather than applying these following scriptures.
test the spirits to see whether they are from Nevertheless, there are significant, on-going problems
God, because many false prophets have gone that occur and these scriptures provide the best
out into the world (1Jn 4:1). solution:

I know your deeds, your hard work and your "If your brother sins against you, [1] go and
perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate show him his fault, just between the two of
wicked men, that you have tested those who you. If he listens to you, you have won your
claim to be apostles but are not, and have brother over. But if he will not listen, [2] take
found them false (Rev 2:2). one or two others along, so that ‘every matter
may be established by the testimony of two or
Watch out that you do not lose what you have three witnesses.’ If he refuses to listen to them,
worked for, but that you may be rewarded [3] tell it to the church; and if he refuses to
fully. Anyone who runs ahead and does not listen even to the church, [4] treat him as you
continue in the teaching of Christ does not would a pagan or a tax collector (Matt
have God; whoever continues in the teaching 18:15-17).
has both the Father and the Son. If anyone
comes to you and does not bring this The above four-step process is God’s way of dealing
teaching, do not take him into your house or with problems with others. It starts by involving as few
welcome him. Anyone who welcomes him people as possible. It ends by involving the church (the
shares in his wicked work (2Jn 1:8-11). whole body of believers). The goal is to solve the
problem as early in the process as possible. This
Even if a teacher is "nice to us", but we know they are process is far better than going to the existing legal
doing a "wicked work", we should not continue to help authorities.

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 1
If any of you has a dispute with another, dare particular example, all four steps of Matthew 18 have
he take it before the ungodly for judgment been followed. It appears that the man repented as a
instead of before the saints? 2 Do you not result. Paul speaks of restoring him in 2 Corinthians
know that the saints will judge the world? 2:5-8.
And if you are to judge the world, are you
not competent to judge trivial cases? 3 Do The ways in which a person might need to be involved
you not know that we will judge angels? How in judging others vary considerably. Prayer for wisdom
much more the things of this life! 4 Therefore, to do it correctly is always very important. We can
if you have disputes about such matters, illustrate
appoint as judges even men of little account
in the church! 5 I say this to shame you. Is it Suppose that your regular weekday driving takes you
possible that there is nobody among you wise past a pornographic movie theater. Suppose that one
enough to judge a dispute between believers? 6 day, you see a friend, a "pillar" in your church
But instead, one brother goes to law against congregation, leaving that theater with another man
another—and this in front of unbelievers! whom you do not know. This is the first time you have
(1Cor 6:1-6.) seen this happen and you have no other evidence that
the friend has a problem in this area. What should you
Frequently, problems center around believers who are do? This is probably a good time to "judge not that you
offended or concerned about sins that they see in their not be judged". You do not know if it was a moment of
fellow-believers. The human tendency is to tell others weakness for your friend, or if your friend went there
about the sin. But the Bible tells us what to do and to get the other man out of that evil environment, or if
gives us an example: the two of them were there to measure the building in
preparation for remodeling it to some more worthwhile
Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you purpose. You do not need to judge your friend, and
who are spiritual should restore him gently. certainly should not need to tell others that you "think
But watch yourself, or you also may be your friend might be sinning".
tempted (Gal 6:1).
Now, suppose that you begin to see your friend and
1
It is actually reported [universally that same man coming from the same theater on a
reported—Darby] that there is sexual regular basis. Is it time to stay away from your friend
immorality among you, and of a kind that does and tell everyone else that your friend is "weird"? No.
not occur even among pagans: A man has his It is time to judge righteous judgment and to "go to
father’s wife. 2 And you are proud! Shouldn’t your brother". You need to get the facts so you can
you rather have been filled with grief and have begin to make a righteous judgment if necessary. Your
put out of your fellowship the man who did friend may explain to you that the unknown man’s wife
this? 3 Even though I am not physically wanted someone to get her husband out of the
present, I am with you in spirit. And I have theater—that the husband wants to change and hopes
already passed judgment on the one who did to overcome the problem very soon. You may think
this, just as if I were present. 4 When you that your friend has no business trying to help that man
are assembled in the name of our Lord if he has to go to such a place to do it. But you should
Jesus and I am with you in spirit, and the be very slow to judge. God may want your friend to
power of our Lord Jesus is present, 5 hand this help that man. If you think your friend’s behavior is
man over to Satan, so that the sinful nature completely wrong, then tell him so and use the
may be destroyed and his spirit saved on the principle in Matthew 18 of taking others to him as
day of the Lord (1Cor 5:1-5). witnesses. Do not judge your friend in your mind or
tell your judgment to others.
In this particular case, steps 1 and 2 of Matthew 18 had
already been carried out. Everybody knew about this As another possible outcome, suppose that when you
man’s sin—they just were not doing any thing about it. told your friend that you saw him at the theater, but
Paul gives his judgment from a distance, though he then your friend claimed it was only one time. Then
makes it clear that the people who assemble together you mention the other times, and your friend said,
should be the ones to put him out of the "Yes, maybe there were a few other times but not as
congregation ("hand him over to Satan"). In this many as you say." Suppose that your friend goes on to
83
say it was a big mistake, that he or she has been trying Why Does God Allow People to Believe
to overcome it and promises never to do it again, but So Many Different Things?
wants you to promise not to tell anybody else. You
cannot judge whether or not your friend is truly
repentant, but you must decide how you will deal with We might start by asking why is this paper on eternal
your friend in the future. You may decide to spend judgment so different than what other religious
more time with your friend to try to help him or her out teachers teach on the subject? Actually, there are other
of their difficulties. On the other hand, you may people who have a view of Eternal judgment similar to
conclude that your friend is not trying to overcome the this paper. If one reads "primitive" writings of pioneer
problem, but simply trying to keep it a secret. You may Americans or missionaries who were cut off from
decide to avoid this friend’s company and to never main-stream church teaching, having only the Bible,
leave your family members alone with this "fiend" in they often place a big emphasis on the "resurrection"
the future. If you go as far as deciding that your friend and "judgment day". There are thousands of verses in
is a danger to the congregation, then you should inform the Bible on these subjects and people left alone to
them of the facts about this person. Whatever you read the Bible find them. No theology degree is
decide to do in this case, remember that "with the required.
judgment you judge, you will be judged".
But even so, does every objective Bible reader come
Finally, what would you do if your friend insists that up with the same conclusions? No. Would it work for
he doesn’t go to that theater and it must be someone Bible students to study in groups so that they would all
else you are seeing. So the next time you see the friend, learn together and come to the same conclusions?
you park your car, get out and confirm that you have Maybe. But what happens when one study group forms
the right person. What would you do if this "friend" different conclusions than another study group?
tells you that you are like Satan—the accuser of the
brethren—and that you have no right to be following One does not need to study the history of Christianity
people around, checking on their sins and judging long to see the incredible diversity of doctrinal
them? What would you do if your "friend" went on to understanding that exists. There are hundreds of
threaten you by saying: "If you tell any of the other denominations. Some are old, some are new. Some are
church brethren about this, I’ll make you regret that rich; some poor. Some baptize by sprinkling, some by
you did"? immersion, and some do not baptize at all. Some
believe God speaks through one leader; others believe
This later case (Acts 20:29) is clearly a wolf among the He speaks through every believer. Some try to
sheep. Dishonest, corrupt people often make more evangelize; others do not. Some groups are willing to
serious-sounding accusations than humble people who accept and work with other groups even though their
are slow to accuse. But we must fear God and not doctrinal differences are major. Other groups have
people. As the false apostles were detected and rejected incredibly minor differences, yet cannot get along with
in Revelation 2:2 (quoted above), so must a false each other. At times, one "Christian" group has gone to
"pillar" be rejected in a local congregation (1Tim 3; war against another "Christian" group.
Titus 1). If the lying "friend" in the above story will
not repent and change at the words of you, other For many people, Christianity is more like a political
witnesses, and then the entire congregation, then the party than it is a way of life. If you asked most who
person must be removed from the congregation. claim to be Christians, "What makes you a Christian?",
Obviously, this is still a time to judge with righteous they would probably talk about their membership in a
judgment. Any procedure designed to punish offenders particular church, or their participation in baptism or
also opens up the possibility for someone to misuse it certain other ceremonies at some time in their life.
to remove a righteous person. All who do so will be Some might actually say that they were "born a
judged by God. Christian".

No matter what decision is made by humans in a Others would say that their relationship with Christ
governing structure, we must never condemn anyone makes them a Christian. They would talk about the
as being "worthless" or "eternally lost". That is not our time they came to an altar, accepted Christ or became
decision to make. "born again". Some of these would say that single act
was all that was necessary to become a Christian and

84
be guaranteed eternal life. Others of this group would order. This writer has known thousands of serious
see a need for continual evidence of living a "Christian Bible students—and cannot think of any two who
life". believe exactly the same things. Furthermore, there are
virtually no examples in the history of religion where
If asked difficult Bible questions, most Christians numerous individuals study the Bible on their own,
would refer the questioner to either the pastor of the then come together to worship finding that they believe
church they attend, or the leadership of their exactly the same thing about all doctrines.
organization. Most Christians believe that their church
is the closest to what God wants a church to be. (Some If we were to limit our study to very basic and essential
believers will graciously acknowledge that they believe doctrines, more groups and individuals would agree—
their congregation is right for them, not right for but still not perfectly. Most would agree that everyone
everybody.) ought to repent and accept Christ, though they might
disagree on whether baptism was needed in that
If you ask the leader of almost any religious group, process, and the manner in which baptism is
"What is needed to produce peace and harmony among performed. Most groups would agree that everyone
Christians and the world in general?", the answer should "love their neighbor as themselves"—but some
would almost always be some variant of this: "Teach do not apply that to peoples of other nations or races.
everyone to believe and practice what I believe and Most would agree that people should keep the Ten
practice." (They will say this even though the members Commandments, though some would claim doing so is
in their group do not get along well.) Indeed, many replacing "grace" with "legalism". There would
religions spend much time, effort, and money certainly be disagreement on the keeping of the fourth
attempting to teach their doctrines to others. Some commandment. When is the Sabbath? How does Christ
Christian groups go as far as trying to prove that they want us to keep it?
are the "One True Church" and that all other churches
are "false". I cannot solve all the sincere doctrinal controversies of
the ages in one article. As a matter of fact, I cannot
Of course, many people who are actively seeking to even read all the serious writing about doctrinal
follow God are looking for that "One True Church". controversies within my lifetime. The only possible
Others, simply grow up assuming that the Church they conclusion is this: Every person who strives to follow
attend is the "right one" and they never bother to find God is not given all of His truth. We are each given
out what other groups teach—or even what their own part of His truth, as He reveals it to us.
group teaches.
Solomon was the wisest man who ever lived (1Kngs
All of these groups and all of these people cannot be 3:12). Yet he realized that God’s working was beyond
completely right! Even if God were to powerfully our comprehension:
appear to the entire world right now and tell everyone
that one particular religious group was "The One" that He has made everything beautiful in its time.
understood "His Truth", we would still have to He has also set eternity in the hearts of men;
conclude that most of the world for most of history has yet they cannot fathom what God has done
not had access to that particular Truth. There simply is from beginning to end (Eccl 3:11).
no history of any religious group teaching exactly the
same doctrines to a significant part of the world for Then I saw all that God has done. No one can
hundreds of years. comprehend what goes on under the sun.
Despite all his efforts to search it out, man
Some people take the opposite approach and say that cannot discover its meaning. Even if a wise
God teaches truth primarily to individuals directly man claims he knows, he cannot really
through the Holy Spirit. Those with His truth are then comprehend it (Eccl 8:17).
scattered around the world—some attending with
various church groups, some probably removed from The Apostle Paul echoed a similar statement:
all church groups. While the Bible does show that God
teaches individuals (1Jn 2:20,27), it is hard to show Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and
that He teaches them all the same truths in the same knowledge of God! How unsearchable his

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 judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out! with another, we do not know who is working harder.
(Rom 11:33.) We really don’t know the fruit of what we do or how
are life will turn out until we are done. Someone else
During the 1950’s, biologists talked about finding the may appear to be living a model life, then suddenly
"secret of life"—unlocking the mechanics of cells and commit suicide or fall into some other tragedy. Only
learning to create life on our own. While these God can judge, fairly and righteously, what each has
scientists have learned to alter life through genetics— done with the resources we have been given.
the hope of actually unlocking the "secret of life" is
now further away than it was in the 1950’s. The This does not mean that our life is just a game or a
process of life has been found to be complex beyond joke. God has set us in a real world, with real people
belief. that really suffer sometimes, and really enjoy life other
times. We can really make a difference in other’s lives
Even if we forget about the complexity of life at the and turn their sorrow into joy if we do the right things.
cellular level, we see incredible complexity in the The "giant card game" is only an analogy.
world around us. God probably could have made our
earth’s ecosystem work with only a few hundred kinds If we have the ability to grow in His grace and
of plants and animals. But he made millions of knowledge, we are responsible for doing it. If we have
different species. They are not all essential. Some the ability to help someone who is suffering, or to
become extinct and life goes on—diminished in some teach His truth to someone who wants to know, we
way—but it nevertheless goes on. should do it. We will be judged for it. But
understanding the intentional diversity of spiritual
The section sub-titled The Purpose of God on page * belief that God allows means that we do not have to
gives many scriptures showing that God tests and tries worry or panic that so many people believe things
the heart of each person. God has placed people in a differently than ourselves. God knows how to teach
great diversity of geographical environments. He has those He wants taught, to choose those He needs for
placed them in a great diversity of economic the first resurrection and how to best bring everyone to
environments. He has allowed them to develop a great eternal life if possible. He also knows how to leave part
diversity of cultural environments. Is it possible that it of the work for us—to see what we will do.
is God’s purpose to place people in a great diversity
of spiritual environments? Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion
of the matter: Fear God and keep his
To some, He has given much truth in many areas. commandments, for this is the whole duty of
Others have some truth in some areas. Still others man. For God will bring every deed into
understand almost nothing about the true God. God is judgment, including every hidden thing,
allowing man to write the history of human experience: whether it is good or evil (Eccl 12:13-14).

• as guided by God, Jesus replied: "‘Love the Lord your God with
• with no knowledge of God, all your heart and with all your soul and with
• and with nearly every possible combination of all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest
partial knowledge. commandment. And the second is like it:
‘Love your neighbor as yourself’" (Matt 22:37-
In some ways, our world is like a giant card game, 39).
where no two people are dealt exactly the same hand,
and nobody can see anyone else’s hand. We can see Blessed are those who do His commandments,
our own hand, but we do not know what it will do that they may have the right to the tree of life,
against other hands until we play our cards. We only and may enter through the gates into the city.
know what other people have as they play their cards. But outside are dogs and sorcerers and
sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters,
By analogy, we all have different physical and spiritual and whoever loves and practices a lie (Rev
abilities, we all grow up in different environments and 22:14-15).
we really don’t know exactly how different we are
from the next person. If we compare our achievements

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This basic message of loving God, doing good to yesterday? What did you do today? You are taking
others and being judged for what we do can be found time to study this paper—hoping to learn or to be
throughout the Bible. The real question for each of us encouraged in the ways of God. That is one important
is "What will we do with the message?" step. What will you do tomorrow? What will happen at
your judgment?
• Will we simply make sure that we join a group
that has it in their doctrinal statement? "Behold, I [Christ] am coming soon! My
• Will we write it neatly, frame it and put it up reward is with me, and I will give to everyone
on our walls? according to what he has done" (Rev 11:12).
• Will we talk about it for an hour or two each
week at church? "I [Christ] have told you these things, so that in
me you may have peace. In this world you
Or will we use the Bible to make each and every will have trouble. But take heart! I have
significant decision of our lives? What did you do overcome the world" (John 16:33).

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