HOW UNIVERSALISTS INTERPRET JESUS’ WORDS ON HELL (PART ONE:) IS HELL TEMPORARY OR ETERNAL?

 

You shall not fall victim of fraudulent schemes because of the anointing of God's favour upon you
Good -Life Devotional: HOW UNIVERSALISTS INTERPRET JESUS’ WORDS ON HELL
(PART ONE:)
IS HELL TEMPORARY OR ETERNAL?

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi
TEXT: Matthew 25:46; 1 Corinthians 15:22; Colossians 1:19–20
   One of the most debated subjects in Christian theology is the nature and duration of hell. Christian Universalists do not necessarily deny judgment, punishment, or the seriousness of sin. Rather, they argue that God's judgment is ultimately remedial and that His purpose is to restore creation to Himself.
   One major argument concerns the Greek word 'aionios', translated “eternal” or “everlasting.” Universalists point out that 'aion' can refer to an age or an age-long period. Therefore, they argue that 'aionios' can sometimes mean “pertaining to an age” rather than necessarily meaning endless duration.
They also appeal to Matthew 25:46, where Jesus says:
“These will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”
  Universalists argue that 'kolasis', translated “punishment,” can carry the idea of correction or discipline. They therefore understand God's judgment as a severe process through which sinners are eventually brought to repentance and restoration.
  They further appeal to 1 Corinthians 15:22: “For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive,” and Colossians 1:20, which speaks of God reconciling “all things” to Himself through Christ.
   However, these verses must not be interpreted in isolation. The word 'aionios' cannot automatically be reduced to “temporary” every time it occurs. Likewise, 'kolasis' does not by itself prove that punishment is necessarily temporary. Context remains essential.
   The important question is therefore not, “What do I prefer God to do?” but “What does the whole counsel of Scripture teach?”
PRAYER Heavenly Father forgive me of my sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation I receive him as Lord and saviour and receive the Holy Spirit and power to break evil strongholds.
Father, give us humility as we study difficult biblical subjects. Deliver us from forcing Scripture to say what we want it to say. Give us wisdom, understanding, and love for Your truth. Help us to take both Your mercy and Your judgment seriously. In Jesus Christ's name, Amen.
POWER POINT
God's mercy is never an excuse to minimize the seriousness of sin, and God's judgment is never a reason to doubt His goodness.
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