Objections about hell: Is God fair to Punish Us Eternally for just 70 years of Sin?

| Sermon Summary by Dan Stevens |

Part 1/4

One of the biggest objections people have about Christianity revolves around the idea of hell. A question often raised is, ‘is it really fair for God to punish us for eternity based on the choices we make during a relatively short 70-odd years on earth?’

Let's unpack that.

First, it's crucial to remember that our time on earth is really just a preparation period. We are immortal souls in training for eternity. Think of it this way: heaven and hell aren't arbitrary destinations. They're actually the end points of the paths we choose to walk during our lives. A life lived walking with God leads to heaven, while a life spent walking away from God ultimately leads to hell. In that sense, our eternal destination is permanentising of the choices we make here on earth.

We see this illustrated powerfully in the story of the rich man and Lazarus. The rich man, consumed by his wealth and lavish lifestyle, ignored the suffering of Lazarus at his gate. He had so much to live on, but so little to live for. He feasted with the elite, while the dogs licked Lazarus’ sores. He used his power and opportunities to accumulate more wealth. There was no room for God in his life and all that mattered was himself. That choice just got permanentized for him. Even in hell, the rich man seems to think Lazarus is still there to serve him and his family.

Also, we shouldn't make the mistake of thinking that those in hell are repenting and weeping for the bad choices they made. The Bible tells us that the rebellion continues. Revelation 16:9 describes people scorched by fire who "cursed the name of God" and "did not repent."

C.S Lewis in his book The Great Divorce says  "the doors of hell are locked on the INSIDE," implying that the damned choose to remain there because they cannot surrender their freedom to anyone. Ironically, everyone who rejects God for want of freedom are enslaved by the harshest chains. But living a life of total surrender to the author of life is the gentlest and sweetest form of submission.

Again C.S. Lewis put it brilliantly: "When all has been said and done, there are two types of people. Those who say to God Thy will be done. And those to whom God says, alright, let thy will be done."

What will be your choice? Be sure to remember, THAT choice will be permanentized as you leave this earth. "You do not have a soul. You are a soul. You have a body."