Text: Mark 9:43-48
In this lesson, we are concluding our three-part series discussing what happens after death. So far we have seen that the afterlife is a reality, so death is not the end. We have also seen that Heaven awaits those who are faithful. But what about those who are not faithful? They will be in another place, and it is important for us to take warning. So we are going to conclude this series by considering the reality of Hell.
What Hell Is Like
- It is described as a “lake of fire” and the “second death” (Revelation 20:14)
- It is a place of pain and suffering (Revelation 14:11) – outer darkness, weeping and gnashing of teeth (Matthew 25:30)
- It is a place where there is no rest (Revelation 14:11)
- We will be in the company of the wicked (Revelation 21:8) – we would not want to be around them here
- We will be away from the presence of God (2 Thessalonians 1:9) – this is why it is so awful
For Whom Was Hell Prepared
- Prepared for the devil and his angels (Matthew 25:41) – this is where he will be tormented (Revelation 20:10); it is not the “domain” of Satan (where he rules); this world is his domain (John 14:30; 2 Corinthians 4:4)
- All who are “accursed” will be sent to the place of “eternal punishment” (Matthew 25:41, 46)
Who Will Be Sent to Hell
- Note: We do not want to give anyone the impression that WE decide who will be in Hell – we will stand before the judgment seat of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:10), and He will judge us; but we can show what the Scriptures teach
- Those who do not know God (2 Thessalonians 1:7-8) – this is what is deserved for sin (Romans 6:23)
- Those who do not believe in Christ (John 8:24)
- Those who do not obey the Lord (2 Thessalonians 1:8; Hebrews 4:11)
- Those who turn back to sin (2 Peter 2:20)
- Important: God has made a way for anyone to avoid Hell (John 3:16; 2 Peter 3:9)
Conclusion
- Hell is a place of eternal misery (darkness, fire, weeping and gnashing of teeth, etc.) – away from the presence of God
- It has been prepared for the devil and his angels – but sadly, others will find themselves there as well
- However, God has provided a way that we can escape this fate – only through Christ (Romans 6:23)
