HOW UNIVERSALISTS INTERPRET JESUS’ WORDS ON HELL (PART THREE:) GOD’S MERCY, HUMAN CHOICE, AND THE CALL TO REPENTANCE

 

You shall be able  to solve complicated problems because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.
Good -Life Devotional:  HOW UNIVERSALISTS INTERPRET JESUS’ WORDS ON HELL
(PART THREE:)  GOD’S MERCY, HUMAN CHOICE, AND THE CALL TO REPENTANCE

TEXT: 2 Peter 3:9; John 3:16–18; Philippians 2:10–11
   Christian Universalists  ( who teach  purgatory) rightly emphasize some wonderful biblical truths: God is loving, Christ is the Savior, God desires people to be saved, and Christ will ultimately triumph.
  2 Peter 3:9 says that God is “not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”
1 Timothy 2:4 similarly says that God “wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.”
But God's universal offer of salvation does not necessarily mean universal acceptance of salvation. Scripture repeatedly calls individuals to repent and believe.
   Jesus said in John 3:16–18 that whoever believes in Him has eternal life, while the one who does not believe “has been judged already.”
Philippians 2:10–11 says that every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. Universalists see this as evidence of eventual universal salvation. Others understand it as the universal acknowledgment of Christ's Lordship, without necessarily teaching that every person receives salvation.
  This distinction is important. Universal acknowledgment is not automatically identical to universal redemption.
   Christians should therefore avoid two opposite errors. The first is becoming so focused on hell that God's mercy, love, and desire to save are forgotten. The second is becoming so confident in universal restoration that the biblical warnings about judgment, repentance, and faith are emptied of their force.
   Our responsibility is clear: preach the gospel, call sinners to repentance, proclaim Christ, and live holy lives.
We do not need to know every mystery of the final judgment before obeying Jesus' command to make disciples.
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 declare the gospel .
Father, thank You for Your mercy revealed through Jesus Christ. Give me compassion for sinners and boldness to preach the gospel. Help me never to use Your grace as permission to continue in sin. Give me wisdom when discussing difficult doctrines and love for those who disagree with me. Keep my heart faithful until the end, and let my life point people to Jesus Christ. Amen.
FINAL REFLECTION
We should neither deny God's judgment nor limit His mercy. We should neither presume universal salvation nor despair of God's ability to save. Our sure foundation is Jesus Christ, His gospel, His death, His resurrection, and His call to repentance and faith.
“Today, if you will hear His voice, do not harden your hearts.” — Hebrews 3:15
POWER POINT
The safest response to the mystery of the final judgment is not speculation but obedience: repent, believe in Christ, live holy, and proclaim the gospel.
+2348035536911 email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com
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HOW UNIVERSALISTS INTERPRET JESUS’ WORDS ON HELL ( PART TWO) : THE BIBLICAL CASE AGAINST UNIVERSALISM ( PURGATORY)

 The yoke of the overwhelming fear of untimely death is broken because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.

Good -Life Devotional:  HOW UNIVERSALISTS INTERPRET JESUS’ WORDS ON HELL

( PART TWO) : 

THE BIBLICAL CASE AGAINST UNIVERSALISM ( PURGATORY) 

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi 

TEXT: Matthew 25:46; Luke 16:19–31; Hebrews 9:27

   Universalism emphasizes God's desire to save all people. Scripture certainly declares that God desires salvation and that Christ died for sinners. Yet the question remains: Does Scripture teach that every person will eventually be saved?

A major difficulty for Universalism is Matthew 25:46: “Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.”

   Jesus uses the same adjective, ( the Greek word 'aionios:) , for both 'punishment' and ' life' . If “eternal life” means 'everlasting life' , Universalists must explain why “eternal punishment” should automatically mean temporary punishment. The argument from the word itself is therefore not decisive.

   Jesus also spoke about a “great chasm” between the rich man and Lazarus in Luke 16:26. The passage presents a serious separation after death and says that those on either side cannot simply cross over.

Hebrews 9:27 declares:“It is appointed for men to die once, and after this comes judgment.”

   The New Testament repeatedly urges people to repent now, rather than presuming that there will be another opportunity after death.

Jesus also warned about the seriousness of rejecting God. In Mark 3:29, He spoke of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit as an “eternal sin.” Matthew 26:24 presents Judas as facing an extraordinarily dreadful judgment.

   These passages do not permit us to treat hell as merely symbolic or insignificant.

At the same time, Christians should be careful not to claim that every detail concerning the intermediate state or final judgment has been revealed to us. Scripture gives us enough truth to produce holy fear, repentance, faith, and obedience.

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 overcome temptation. 

Lord Jesus, keep me from taking sin lightly. Give me a heart that responds to Your warnings while there is still time. Help me to repent quickly, forgive others, obey Your Word, and live faithfully before You. May I never presume upon Your mercy while deliberately rejecting Your truth. Amen.

POWER POINT

The possibility of judgment should not make us despair; it should make us repent, believe, and live faithfully before God.

+2348035536911 email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com 

Listen to Good-Life with Rev Michael on internet radio download Radio Nigeria app and search for Port Harcourt Garden city radio 89.9 FM  by 5:45 pm 1+GMT on Tuesdays

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.
+2348035536911 email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com
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JESUS CHRIST SPOKE MORE ABOUT HELL THAN ANYONE ELSE.

 

The enemy shall fall into the trap that was set to catch you because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.
Good-Life Devotional: JESUS CHRIST SPOKE MORE ABOUT HELL THAN ANYONE ELSE.
By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi
   Jesus Christ spoke and taught about the reality, warning, and consequences of hell—often using terms like Gehenna (translated as hell or fire of hell) and eternal fire—more explicitly and vividly than any other single figure in the Bible.
   While some teachers debate whether He spoke more about hell than about heaven (with many biblical scholars noting that He spoke far more frequently about the Kingdom of Heaven/God), it is widely recognized by theologians that Jesus provided the most direct, stark, and graphic descriptions of final judgment and unquenchable fire found in Scripture. He used these strong warnings not to condemn, but to urge repentance and offer a way of escape through Himself.
KEY BIBLICAL PASSAGES
Jesus primarily used the Greek word 'Gehenna' , which referred to a valley outside Jerusalem (the Valley of Hinnom) that had a history of pagan child sacrifice and later became a smoldering garbage dump. He used this vivid imagery to describe final judgment:
Matthew 5:22, 29–30 (The Sermon on the Mount): Jesus warns that calling someone a fool can put one in danger of the "fire of hell" (Gehenna). He famously states it is better to lose an eye or a hand than for your "whole body to be thrown into hell."
Matthew 10:28: He explicitly warns about ultimate accountability: "Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell."
Mark 9:43–48: Jesus describes hell as a place "where the worm does not die and the fire is not quenched," emphasizing the unceasing nature of the consequence.
Matthew 25:41, 46: In the parable of the Sheep and the Goats, He speaks of the final separation, sending the wicked into the "eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels."
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 live in righteousness.
+2348035536911 email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com
Listen to Good-Life with Rev Michael on internet radio download Radio Nigeria app and search for Port Harcourt Garden city radio 89.9 FM  by 5:45 pm 1+GMT on Tuesdays

LIFE AFTER DEATH IS CONSCIOUS AND INTERACTIVE :( PART TWO) — TWO DESTINIES BEYOND DEATH

 Your tears of sorrow shall be turned into tears of joy because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.

Good -Life Devotional: LIFE AFTER DEATH IS CONSCIOUS AND INTERACTIVE :( PART TWO) 

— TWO DESTINIES BEYOND DEATH

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi 

Scripture: John 5:28–29; Revelation 21:3–4; Revelation 20:11–15

   The Bible teaches that life after death ultimately involves two contrasting destinies. Jesus said that those in the graves will hear His voice and come forth—some to the resurrection of life and others to the resurrection of judgment (John 5:28–29).

   The story of Lazarus and the rich man provides a powerful picture of this separation. Lazarus was comforted, while the rich man was in torment. The rich man remained conscious of his condition and remembered his family. Yet Abraham explained that a great chasm had been fixed between them (Luke 16:25–26).

      This should awaken us to the seriousness of our earthly choices.

For the believer, the final hope is greater than the intermediate state after death. Scripture points toward the resurrection of the body, the final defeat of death, and the new creation. Revelation 21:3–4 declares that God will dwell with His people, and there will be no more death, mourning, crying, or pain.

    For those who reject God, Scripture presents a fearful final judgment. Revelation 20:11–15 describes the judgment before the great white throne, where the dead are judged according to their works. Jesus repeatedly warned about judgment, not to satisfy curiosity about the afterlife, but to call people to repentance and faith.

Therefore, eternity demands a decision today. Christianity is not merely about improving earthly life; it is about reconciliation with God through Jesus Christ.

    The good news is that nobody needs to wait until death to discover his or her eternal destiny. Jesus calls us now: “Repent and believe in the gospel” (Mark 1:15).

REFLECTION: Your earthly life is temporary, but eternity is permanent. What are you doing today to prepare for eternity?

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 overcome temptation.

Father, thank You for providing salvation through Jesus Christ. Help me to live faithfully, proclaim the gospel boldly, and lead others from the path of destruction into eternal life. Amen.

+2348035536911 email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com 

Listen to Good-Life with Rev Michael on internet radio download Radio Nigeria app and search for Port Harcourt Garden city radio 89.9 FM  by 5:45 pm 1+GMT on Tuesdays

LIFE AFTER DEATH IS CONSCIOUS AND INTERACTIVE :( PART ONE)

 

The curse of stagnation and confusion is broken because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.
Good -Life Devotional: LIFE AFTER DEATH IS CONSCIOUS AND INTERACTIVE :( PART ONE)

Scripture: Luke 16:19–31; 2 Corinthians 5:8
   Death is not the end of human existence. Scripture presents life after death as a conscious reality in which people continue to exist beyond the grave. The body dies, but the person does not cease to be.
   Jesus illustrated this truth in the account of Lazarus and the rich man. Lazarus died and was carried by angels to “Abraham’s bosom,” while the rich man died and found himself in torment. Remarkably, both men were conscious. Lazarus experienced comfort, while the rich man experienced anguish. The rich man remembered his earthly life, recognized Lazarus, spoke with Abraham, and was concerned about his brothers who were still alive (Luke 16:23–28).
   This account gives us a sobering picture: death does not erase consciousness, personality, memory, or accountability.
For the Christian, however, death brings a completely different experience. Paul says, “to be absent from the body” is “to be present with the Lord” (2 Corinthians 5:8). Jesus also promised the repentant thief, “Today you will be with Me in Paradise” (Luke 23:43).
    The believer's future is therefore not an unconscious sleep or disappearance. It is fellowship with Christ. Hebrews 12:22–24 speaks of the heavenly assembly and “the spirits of the righteous made perfect.” Revelation 7:9–10 pictures a vast multitude worshipping before God's throne.
  There is therefore hope beyond the grave. The believer does not enter an empty eternity but the presence of the living God.
REFLECTION: If your earthly life ended today, where would you expect to spend eternity?
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 overcome temptation.
Lord Jesus, help me to live with eternity in view. Strengthen my faith, keep my heart faithful to You, and prepare me for the day when I shall be with You forever. Amen.
+2348035536911 email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com
Listen to Good-Life with Rev Michael on internet radio download Radio Nigeria app and search for Port Harcourt Garden city radio 89.9 FM  by 5:45 pm 1+GMT on Tuesdays

WE ARE CREATED IN THE IMAGE OF THE TRINITY. ( Part 2) -FROM DEATH TO RESURRECTION-

 

What was meant to shame you shall result in your elevation and honour because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.
Good -Life Devotional: WE ARE CREATED IN THE IMAGE OF THE TRINITY. ( Part 2)
-FROM DEATH TO RESURRECTION-

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi
Scripture Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:1–8; 1 Corinthians 15:42–44
   The biblical understanding of human nature gives us a powerful perspective on death. Death is not the destruction of everything that makes us who we are. It is the separation of the physical body from the immaterial dimension of our existence.
   Ecclesiastes 12:7 says, “Then the dust returns to the earth as it was, and the spirit returns to God who gave it.”
  James 2:26 likewise teaches, “For just as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is also dead.”
   The soul, however, should not necessarily be understood as a third invisible object that leaves the body alongside the spirit. Biblically, “soul” often describes the person or living self—our consciousness, desires, emotions, and identity.
   This is why Paul could say, “to be absent from the body and to be at home with the Lord” (2 Corinthians 5:8). He also expressed his desire “to depart and be with Christ” (Philippians 1:23).
   Yet Christianity does not teach that our ultimate destiny is to remain disembodied spirits forever. The great Christian hope is resurrection.
    Paul explains that the body is “sown a perishable body, it is raised an imperishable body” (1 Corinthians 15:42). Romans 8:23 speaks of “the redemption of our body.”
Therefore, the gospel gives us hope beyond death. The body may return to dust, but death does not have the final word. Christ will raise His people.
   Being created in God's image means our existence has profound dignity and purpose. Our bodies matter. Our minds and emotions matter. Our spiritual relationship with God matters.
One day, Christ will redeem the whole person.
REFLECTION: Your present body is not your final destiny. In Christ, resurrection awaits.
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 overcome the fear of death. Lord Jesus, strengthen my hope in the resurrection. Help me live faithfully in my body, love You with my whole being, and look forward to the day when You will raise and redeem Your people. Amen.
+2348035536911 email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com
Listen to Good-Life with Rev Michael on internet radio download Radio Nigeria app and search for Port Harcourt Garden city radio 89.9 FM  by 5:45 pm 1+GMT on Tuesdays