Hell

I want to begin today's sermon with a light-hearted story that will make you smile. A Sunday school teacher was discussing the topic of hell with her class of young children. She asked them, "What do you think hell is like?" One of the children quickly replied, "I think it's like sitting in church on a hot Sunday, listening to a really long sermon!" While we can laugh at the child's response, today's topic is one that we must take very seriously.

Our powerful verse for today comes from Matthew 25:46, which says, "Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life." This verse reminds us of the reality of hell and the importance of making a decision about our eternal destiny.

The topic of hell can be difficult to discuss, but it's crucial that we understand its significance and share the message of salvation with others. Today, I want to share with you three truths about hell and how these truths should impact our lives.

First, hell is real. Some may want to dismiss hell as a mere metaphor or a scare tactic, but the Bible consistently affirms its existence. Jesus Himself spoke about hell in numerous passages, such as Mark 9:43, where He said, "If your hand causes you to stumble, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life maimed than with two hands to go into hell, where the fire never goes out." The reality of hell should motivate us to live our lives with eternity in mind, making choices that align with God's will.

Second, hell is a place of separation from God. In 2 Thessalonians 1:9, we read, "They will be punished with everlasting destruction and shut out from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his might." Hell is not just a place of physical torment; it is also a place of utter spiritual darkness, completely cut off from the love, grace, and goodness of God. This truth should compel us to share the Gospel with those who do not know Christ, that they may avoid this eternal separation.

Lastly, there is a way to escape hell. The Bible tells us that Jesus Christ came to save us from the punishment we deserve. John 3:16-17 says, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him." By placing our faith in Jesus Christ and accepting His gift of salvation, we can escape the eternal punishment of hell and instead experience the joy of eternal life with God.

Now, I want to extend an invitation to each of you. If you have not yet accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, I encourage you to do so today. The reality of hell and the promise of salvation should prompt us to make a life-changing decision that will determine our eternal destiny.

Let us pray together: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of salvation through Your Son, Jesus Christ. We acknowledge the reality of hell and the urgency of sharing the Gospel with those who do not know You. For those who have not yet received Jesus as their Lord and Savior, I pray that they would make that life-changing decision today. In Jesus' name, Amen.

If you have made the decision to follow Jesus today, please don't leave without speaking with one of our pastors or leaders. They would love to guide you through this important step in your spiritual journey and help you grow in your newfound relationship with Christ.

Remember, hell is real, but the good news is that we can escape its punishment through faith in Jesus Christ. As Matthew 25 :46 reminds us, "Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life." God bless you all, and may you experience the joy and assurance of salvation in Jesus Christ, and share this life-changing message with those around you.