Theology Terms Explained: “Hell”
In this series on the blog, we’re providing sound doctrine for everyday people by providing you with clear and simple definitions that will strengthen your theological foundation. Each article covers 4 categories including:
The Term – We lay out how it’s pronounced or synonymous terms.
The Definition – We provide the Merriam-Webster definition and an everyday version.
The Biblical Connection – We show you where the term connects with Scripture.
Used in an Everyday Conversation – We use it in a basic conversation.
The Term
Hell
(hel)
The Definition
Merriam-Webster: The place or state of punishment for the wicked after death.
FTG Expanded Explanation: Hell is the place of eternal, conscious punishment prepared for Satan, his demons, and all who reject Jesus Christ. Scripture describes hell as a place of judgment, separation from God's gracious presence, and unending punishment for sin. God does not delight in the death of the wicked, yet His perfect holiness and justice require that sin be judged. The doctrine of hell magnifies both God's righteousness and the greatness of the gospel, for through faith in Christ sinners can be rescued from the judgment they deserve.
The Biblical Connection
Matthew 25:46 – "These will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life."
Mark 9:43 – "It is better for you to enter life crippled, than, having your two hands, to go into hell, into the unquenchable fire."
Revelation 20:14–15 – "Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire... and if anyone's name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire."
Used in an Everyday Conversation
“The reality of hell reminds us that sin is far more serious than people often imagine.”
“God has provided the only way of salvation through Jesus Christ, who bore God's wrath so that all who believe in Him will not perish in hell but have eternal life.”
“The doctrine of hell should produce both gratitude for God's saving grace and urgency to proclaim the gospel to those who are still without Christ.”
