Jesus the Savior of All! by Scott Ketelsen

Jesus,

The Savior of

ALL




A study on the doctrine of Hell and its
Duration




Introduction
Have you ever heard anyone say “How could a Loving God throw me in Hell forever and ever and ever!! What kind of God is this!!! If that’s the way he is I don’t want anything to do with Him!” Or, have you ever had trouble explaining to someone, after losing a loved one, that if that person didn’t know Jesus, prior to death, that they would be in Hell forever and ever and that they would never see their loved one again! What a horrible thing to say to someone, yet with the current theology and thought on the Doctrine of Hell this is what is projected as truth, And if you don’t believe in this way of thinking, then you to are going to burn forever and ever.
This study is to be used as a guide, to not only learn why most of the Church believes the way it does about this subject, but hopefully to expel some of the myths and contradictions that the orthodox damnation doctrine projects as truth. This study is by no means exhaustive and really only scratches the surface; however, it should prove to be an illuminating journey into what the Bible actually teaches on this subject. May the Lord bless you for having an open and willing heart.

What does the Bible teach?

The Good News of Christ’s Total Victory!
- God will restore ALL things. (Ac. 3:21)
- ALL the Earths families will be blessed through Christ, Abraham’s seed. (Gen. 12:3; Ps. 72:17; Ac. 3:23; Rom. 4:13; Gal. 3:8)
- ALL the Earths families will remember the Lord; turn to Him and Worship Him. (Ps. 22:27-28)
- ALL flesh will bless His name forever and sing His Praise.
- (Ps. 145:21, 66:3-4; Rev. 5:13)
- His tender mercies are over ALL His works, and All His works shall praise Him. (Ps. 145:9-10)
- God’s anger is momentary, but His mercy is everlasting. (Ps. 103:8-10, 136; Micah 7:18)
- EVERY knee will bow and EVERY tongue will confess… will swear to Him and oath of allegiance. (Isa. 45:21-24; Phil. 2:9-11)
- His will and good pleasure and purpose are to unite ALL creation in Christ. (Eph. 1:10, 2:9-10)
- His word will not return void but accomplish His desire, pleasure and purpose. (Isa. 45:23, 46:11, 55:11)
- God has given Christ All things. (Matt. 11:27, 28:18; Lk. 10:22; Jn. 3:35, 13:3, 17:2; Eph 1:22; Heb. 1:2, 2:7-8; 1 Pet. 3:22)
- Christ will accomplish His Father’s will and lose nothing of All He has been given. (Jn. 6:37, 39, 17:2; Heb. 10:7, 9)
- Through Adam’s disobedience “the many” were made sinners so also through Christ obedience “the many” will be made righteous. (Rom. 5:18-19; 1 Cor. 15:22)
- God is the savior of All people, especially (not exclusively) of those who believe. (1Tim. 4:9-11)
- Christ, the Lamb of God, has put away sin - the sin of the world. (Jn. 1:29; Heb. 9:26; 2 Cor. 5:19)
- God’s mercy endures forever. (Ps. 136)
- In the last days ALL nations shall flow into the Lords house. (Isa. 2:2)

So where did this all begin? Why do we have all this misunderstanding and confusion, when we have such clear Biblical evidence?

History
The Second Council of Constantinople condemned the doctrine of Universal Salvation in 553. Orthodox Church and the Roman Catholic Church adopted the belief in the eternity of the punishments and hell became a main stream doctrine to instill fear and control over parishioners. The 3rd century Christian writer and theologian Origen purposed that these punishments were purgatorial, and that they were proportionate to the guilt of the individual and not “Eternal”. Eventually all peoples and even devils would be purified. Ultimately everyone in hell would eventually be restored to happiness and in right standing with God.
For additional information see Microsoft® Encarta® Encyclopedia 99. © 1993-1998

Here's the brief summation of this popular belief, reference Encyclopedia Americana for more information:
The infernal regions are generally accepted as the place where tormented or condemned souls go to receive their eternal punishment. It is also a place were many believe evil spirits dwell. Divine revenge and un-tempered and never ending torture is the lot for the ones who disobey or worship other gods.

Now where, and how, did this popular belief about hell originate?

Many sources conclude that the doctrine of eternal torments and punishments for the wicked originated from Hindu, Persian, Egyptian, and Grecian religions. Today the thoughts and patterns of this pagan Hell have influenced Christian dogma and doctrine. Middle Ages writers like Augustine and Dante Alighieri have fueled the imaginations of professing Christians. The shaping these Hellish belief systems by these writers have instilled acceptance to the point of heresy, if one does not believe in these pagan concepts. Believe or burn is the standard party line today. Allowing no room for Gods love, it nullifies the cross and Jesus’ sacrifice for the sins of the “whole world”.

The Second Council of Constantinople in 553 A.D. is where the Doctrine of Eternal Punishment became mainstream belief, in an effort to keep Pagans and Christians under control by mixing of pagan philosophies of a vengeful wrathful god with Christian truth.

Egypt the Mother of Superstitions
Unrighteous dead, "head-down", in a Fiery Pit of eternal punishment. (p.164, Wallis Budge.
The Egyptian Religion. New York. Bell Publishing Company.1900, reprint 1959)






Enemies being burned in a fiery pit, then heads of the damned being burned in another fiery pit. (p.164, Wallis Budge. The Egyptian Religion. New York. Bell Publishing Company.1900, reprint 1959)





Muller notes scenes of the damned being tortured in the underworld. They are hacked up with knives, consumed in flames erupting from a great underworld serpent or dragon, dragon in Greek means "great serpent" (fig.187. p.179. W. Max Muller. The Mythology


Fiery Sea of the Underworld, painted red, in tomb of Pharaoh Seti I (11291-1278 BCE) with souls of the dead, small trees before them. (fig. 130, p. 160, Erik Hornung. Tal de Koenige, Die Ruhestattes der Pharaonen. Weltbild Verlag GmbH, Augsburg. 1985, 1995 ISBN 3-89350-741-8)

"This scene shows four cynocephalus baboons sitting at the corners of a rectangular pool. On each side of this pool is a flaming brazier. The pool's red color indicates that it is filled with a fiery liquid, reminding one of the 'Lake of Fire' frequently mentioned in the Book of the Dead." (p.168, commentary to plate 32 [in color], Raymond Faulkner and Ogden Goelet, The Egyptian Book of the Dead, The Book of Going Forth by Day, San Francisco, Chronicle Books, 1994, ISBN 0-8118-0767-3)




















Does this sound like the Gospel of Hope to you? Does this sound like the God you know? I thought Christianity was different?

I thought God was Love, I thought Jesus died for the sins of the whole world?
Jn. 1:29 Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! NAS
I thought Jesus won it all on the cross?
Jn. 12:32 And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to Myself. NAS
I thought the Fathers plan was perfect in the redemption of all man kind? Jn 3:16
Why is it that the Egyptian Doctrine of Hell is the same as Modern day Christianities? If it is Egyptian in origin then is Eternal torment of God?
Is it Biblical?

Moses
Ac. 7:22 And Moses was educated in all the learning of the Egyptians, and he was a man of power in words and deeds. NAS

Moses learned all this Egyptian theology while growing up in Pharaohs house. Moses the greatest prophet of the O.T. the man who spoke with God

Ex 33:11 Thus the LORD used to speak to Moses face to face, just as a man speaks to his friend. NAS

This man does not once mention any of these Egyptian myths. Why?
Because he of all people knew that they were just Myths, pagan in origin.

Yet he did not once mention any of these Egyptian myths in Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.

The Greatest Prophet of the O.T. failed to mention this to anyone. If these Egyptian myths were true, then surly he would have warned us of this impending doom lurking over the souls of all Israel and the world.
There is not one mention of these fables in the Torah. The Jews, for the most part, do not believe these doctrines today and are not gleaned from scripture as pictures or types.

Common Objections
So why is it necessary to believe on the Lord Jesus now for Salvation?

1 Tim. 4:10 For it is for this we labor and strive, because we have fixed our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all men, especially of believers. NAS

Why especially of believers? There is a benefit to know the Lord now prior to physical death. The prior verse

1 Tim. 4:7-8 But have nothing to do with worldly fables fit only for old women. On the other hand, discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness; 8 for bodily discipline is only of little profit, but godliness is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. NAS

When we first came to the Lord, many of us did not realize to road ahead. The Christian walk is something we all struggle with now. Yet this walk is necessary for our transformation.

Promise. Better to go through the fire now and die to sin so we can grow more into the image and likenesses of His son, on this side of Heaven then have to give account for that sin directly before the Lord on the other side. Hoping for the presence of God now through trials so later we gain more of God as reward.

We are to
Eph. 5:10-16 trying to learn what is pleasing to the Lord. 11 And do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, but instead even expose them; 12 for it is disgraceful even to speak of the things which are done by them in secret. 13 But all things become visible when they are exposed by the light, for everything that becomes visible is light. 14 For this reason it says,

"Awake, sleeper, And arise from the dead, And Christ will shine on you."

15 Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men, but as wise, 16 making the most of your time, because the days are evil. NAS

This is the Cross we must carry. God raises us up from the death, the hurt, the pain, the fire, the fight, the trial, the temptation, the battle, and the attack of the enemy; we must not give in to it.

What of the areas of willing sin?

Gal. 6:7-8 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap. 8 For the one who sows to his own flesh shall from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit shall from the Spirit reap eternal life.
NAS

The wages of sin is still death.

Rom. 6:23 23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. NAS

Again death to sin, turning away from things that keep us from going on in God.
This letter to the Romans was written to whom? Christians.

Many have used this verse as an evangelism tool. However its context is not talking abut “Eternal Damnation” and “Hell fire”. Its context is death to sin for the Christian, getting our walk right before the Lord.

2 Cor. 4:10-11 Always carrying about in the body the dying of Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body. 11 For we who live are constantly being delivered over to death for Jesus' sake, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh. NAS

This is a free gift only when we choose to accept it.

Aren’t you just giving a license to sin?

People live however they want to anyway. They are just being honest before the Lord, even if they do not know Him yet.

However we are warned of being lukewarm as Christians.
Rev. 3:14-19 And to the angel of the church in Laodicea write:

The Amen, the faithful and true Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God, says this: 15'I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot; I would that you were cold or hot. 16'So because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of My mouth. 17'Because you say, "I am rich, and have become wealthy, and have need of nothing," and you do not know that you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked, 18 I advise you to buy from Me gold refined by fire, that you may become rich, and white garments, that you may clothe yourself, and that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and eye salve to anoint your eyes, that you may see. 19'Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline; be zealous therefore, and repent. NAS

Again written to the Church!

Not written to unbelievers. These verses have also been used for evangelism to try and scare people into the kingdom

Buy Gold refined in the fire? What do other scripture say about this?

Mal. 3:2-4 And He will sit as a smelter and purifier of silver, and He will (purify) the sons of Levi and (refine them) like gold and silver, so that they may present to the LORD offerings in righteousness. NAS

1 Cor. 3:13-15 Each man's work will become evident; for the day will show it, because it is to be revealed with fire; and the fire itself will test the quality of each man's work. 14 If any man's work which he has built upon it remains, he shall receive a reward. 15 If any man's work is burned up, he shall suffer loss; but he himself shall be saved, yet so as through fire. NAS

1 Pet. 1:7 That the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ; NAS

What is this fire?

Deut. 4:24 For the LORD thy God is a consuming fire, even a jealous God. KJV

Heb. 12:29 For our God is a consuming fire. KJV

Fire in our hearts the fire of God. The burning away of sin. With a willingness to be like Jesus. OK Lord I will give up my sin no matter how it hurts.

Again better to be honest before the Lord then be lukewarm.

Laodicea, (Rev 3) the church of the laity. The Church ruled by the people not by God. Lukewarm and slackness. Being comfortable in our lives and beliefs, not searching for the truth in all things, and not lining our doctrines up with the whole word of God.

Sins could be anything that keeps us from growing and going on in God.

Rev. 21:8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death. KJV

All these sins will be burnt up and all those in the lake if fire will be purified. This fire is a divine cleansing, the very presence of God himself.

Rev. 14:10 he also will drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is mixed in full strength in the cup of His anger; and he will be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb. NAS

It is the fearful (among others) that have their place in the Lake of fire.

This Egyptian doctrine of Hell paints God as a monster. Merciless and unforgiving. Many are in the Church today because of these Egyptian fables. Have you ever heard “We have fire insurance?” This takes away from the purpose of this judgment; this takes away and steels the love of God from the hearts of the Brethren, and robs the process of being made into the image and likeness of Him, His Son Jesus Christ. (Gen. 1:26 the making of man) The visible manifestation of the invisible God. God IN Christ, the hope of Glory.

Heb. 12:6 For those whom the Lord loves He disciplines, And He scourges every son whom He receives. NAS

We must go through this fire and accept the judgment of God in our lives and be willing to go through this fire for the sake of submission to God’s judgments. That we may become sons and daughters of God.

Salvation is not about getting Fire Insurance. Saved from Hell and the devil.

Salvation is about growing and maturing though the things we suffer.

This is the requirement for Salvation.

Phil. 3:9-11 That I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death; 11 in order that I may attain to the resurrection from the dead. NAS

We must die to sin as Jesus did, and be conformed to His death. Being Lukewarm really does not buy anyone time. Because all will be saved, so all will have to go through this fire at one time or another.

1 Cor. 15:21-26 For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all shall be made alive. 23 But each in his own order: Christ the first fruits, after that those who are Christ's at His coming, 24 then comes the end, when He delivers up the kingdom to the God and Father, when He has abolished all rule and all authority and power. 25 For He must reign until He has put all His enemies under His feet. 26 The last enemy that will be abolished is death. NAS

So if death will be abolished then how can there be “Eternal torments”?


This passage goes on to say:
1 Cor. 15:28 And when all things are subjected to Him, then the Son Himself also will be subjected to the One who subjected all things to Him, that God may be all in all. NAS

Where is Hell? (In presence of the saints, the Lamb, and His Holy angels)
Rev. 14:9-12 He will be tormented with burning sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and of the Lamb. 11 And the smoke of their torment rises for ever and ever. (Age of the ages.)

Lk. 16:19-31 In the presence of the saints.

Why are these tormented day and night in the presence of the lamb and his holy angels?
2 Cor. 4:6 The glory of God in the face of Christ.
Heb. 10:26-27 Fury of a fire which will consume the adversaries.
Heb. 12:29 For our God is a consuming fire.
1 Cor. 3:15 Shall be saved, yet so as through fire.
2 Thess. 1:7 His mighty angels in flaming fire.
Heb. 1:7 And of the angels He says, "Who makes His angels winds, and His
ministers a flame of fire."

What joy does Jesus and His angels have to see God’s very own creation in fiery, mindless torment, day in and out, forever and ever? God is the “Maker of ALL things” (Isa. 44:24). There is purpose in correction. The making of a new creation. (Gal. 6:15; Rev.21:5)

The word for tormented in Rev. 14:9-12 is Strong’s #928 from #931; to apply
a touch-stone, i.e. (by analogy) torture, to test.

Conscious punishment for the wicked (this includes people, devil, and demons)
Matt. 8:12 Weeping and wailing are conscious torments. (Lk. 12:47-48)
Matt. 25:41 Depart into Age Lasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels,
Strong’s #166.
Matt. 25:46 These go to Age lasting punishment, but the righteous into life
Age lasting, #166.
2 Pet. 2:9 The Lord knows how to keep the unrighteous under punishment
for the Day of Judgment.
Jude 7 Sodom and Gomorrah are examples of suffering punishment of Age-
abiding fire, #166.
Jude 13 These people have the blackness of darkness reserved for them Age-
Abiding, #165.
Rev. 14:9-11 The smoke of their torment ascends for Ages of Ages, no rest day or
Night, # 165, #165.
Rev. 20:10 The Devil will be tormented Age of the Ages, #165, #165.

Differing degrees of punishment (also proof texts) and refutation of annihilation.
(Matt. 11:21-24; Mk. 12:40)
Consciousness after death, (Lk. 16:22-31; 1 Pet. 3:19; Rev. 6:9-11).

Scriptural Absurdities
If the King James translators (and her daughter translations) were to be consistent in their translation efforts in regards to mis-translating of Aion and Aionios (Strong’s #165 and #166) and if we could just insert a word in the place of what the true meanings really are, which is what they did. Then we could make the Bible say some ridiculous things. They even changed what the Bible teaches to fit their doctrinal beliefs.
(remember these two words were said to mean #165 KJV rendering-- age, course, eternal, (for) ever (-more), [n-] ever, (beginning of the while the) world (began, without end). #166
KJV rendering-- eternal, for ever, everlasting, world (began).

If Eternal is forever than how can anything be added to it?
(Ex…Forever and ever)
Translate the word eternity below with any of the above words, and how absurd the Bible phraseology becomes! It mis-represents what the Bible as saying, this is what they did.

Just to name a few. (There are countless numbers more)
• To whom be the glory during the ETERNITIES, even TO THE ETERNITIES. Gal. 1:5.
• Now all these things happened unto them, for ensamples, and they are written for our admonition upon whom the ends OF THE ETERNITIES are come. 1 Cor. 10:11.
• That in the ETERNITIES coming he might show the exceeding riches of his grace. Eph. 2:7.
• The mystery which hath been hid from the ETERNITIES and from the generations. Col. 1:26.
• But now once in the end of the ETERNITIES, hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself. Heb. 9:26.
• The harvest is the end of the ETERNITY. Matt. 13:39.
• So shall it be in the end of this ETERNITY. Matt. 13:40.
• Tell us when shall these things be, and what the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the ETERNITY. Matt. 4:4.
But substitute age, ages, or age of the ages, and the sense of the record is preserved.

Mistranslation
What is in a word? How can a slight twist in translation skew the belief of the majority of all Christians who believe in eternal punishment?

Aion and the Ages
(Please note: this is only “one” example of the 197 times Strong’s #165 and #166 occur in N.T.)
Matt. 25:46 "And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into
eternal life."

The word eternal here is:
Strong’s #166 aionios (ahee-o'-nee-os); from #165; abiding from age to age, perpetual as in duration extended (also used of past time, or past and future as well) periods of time, long lasting with definite beginning and end: KJV rendering-- eternal, for ever, everlasting, world (began).

From root; #165 aion (ahee-ohn'); from the same as #104; properly, an age; by extension, (also past); by implication, the world; specially, a period of time, concealed duration, (Jewish) a Messianic period (present or future): KJV rendering-- age, course, eternal, (for) ever (-more), [n-] ever, (beginning of the while the) world (began, without end). Compare 5550.

Thus the word that modern Bible translators have inaccurately rendered “eternal” or “everlasting” is the Greek word AIONIOS. Since this is the adjective form of the noun AION, which means “an age”, AIONIOS can mean AGE LASTING, AGES, AGE of the AGES, AGE ABIDING, etc…

The King James Version of the Bible renders AIONIOS in the New Testament as: age, course, eternal, forever, evermore, forever and ever, everlasting, world, beginning of the world, world began, world without end.

What is the real meaning of AION? It is the word in which we get our English word EON, according to Webster’s dictionary, means “a long period of time.”

AION simply means AGE “a period of time”, AIONIOS simply means AGES “periods of time.”

So why are we forced to believe that these Greek words mean anything different?

Matt. 25:46 "And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life."

The word for punishment here is:
Strong’s #2851 kolasis (kol'-as-is); from #2849; penal infliction: KJV rendering-- punishment, torment.

From root #2849 kolazo (kol-ad'-zo); from kolos (dwarf); properly, to curtail, i.e. (figuratively) to chastise (or reverse for infliction): KJV rendering-- punish.

To “Curtail” means to restrain as a person is restrained in jail or a child is restrained when he is grounded for some disobedience. To “Chastise” has one simple meaning according to Webster’s New World Dictionary: to punish in order to correct, usually by beating. It should be clear that this is not meaningless, unending, sadistic torture, but PURPOSEFUL CORRECTION.

How should Matt.. 25:46 then be translated?

Matt. 25:46 "And these will go away into Age lasting correction, but the righteous into Age abiding life."

So what is the accurate Biblical Doctrine of Hell or torments in terms of duration?
However long it takes to correct, and bring about repentance, a change of heart. (Jn. 3:15, Ac. 2:21)

Imperishable/Age abiding life in Christ
Age Abiding Life? I thought we had eternal life in Christ?
Well, how do we know that Age Abiding Life lasts forever?

Christ Jesus who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel (2 Tim. 1:10; Lk. 20:36; Jn. 8:51; 1 Cor. 15:52-55) has come to us in the power of endless life, and because He lives, we also live in Him.
(Jn. 14:19; Heb. 7:16)
Also because we have words in Greek that mean immortality and deathlessness, for example…

1 Cor. 15:54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.

Strong’s #861 aphtharsia- 1) incorruption, perpetuity 2) purity, sincerity, incorrupt.

#110 athanasia-(ath-an-as-ee'-ah); undying, immortality, everlasting
from a compound of 1 (as a negative particle) and 2288; deathlessness:
KJV-- immortality. (See also Rom. 2:7; 1 Cor. 15:50, 53; 2 Tim. 1:10)

WORDS THAT TEACH ENDLESS DURATION.
The soul's immortal and happy existence is taught in the New Testament, by words that in the Bible are never applied to anything that is of limited duration. They are applied to God and the soul's happy existence only.


Strong’s #179 akatalutos (ak-at-al'-oo-tos); from #1 (as a negative particle) and a derivative of #2647; indisoluble, i.e. (figuratively) permanent:KJV - endless.
(Heb. 7:16)
#262 amarantinos (am-ar-an'-tee-nos); from #263; "amaranthine", i.e. (by implication) fadeless: KJV - that fadeth not away. (1 Pet. 5:4)
#861 aphtharsia- 1) incorruption, perpetuity 2) purity, sincerity, incorrupt
(Rom. 2:7; 1 Cor. 15:42, 50, 53, 54; Eph. 6:24; 2 Tim. 1:10; Titus 2:7)
#862 aphthartos (af'-thar-tos); from #1 (as a negative particle) and a derivative of #5351 undecaying (in essence or continuance): KJV - not (in-, un-)
corruptible, immortal.
#110 athanasia-(ath-an-as-ee'-ah); undying, immortality, everlasting from a
Compound of 1 (as a negative particle) and 2288; deathlessness:
KJV-- immortality

Heb. 7:16-17 According to the power of an indestructible life.
1 Pet. 1:3-5 To obtain, inheritance which is imperishable, undefiled, will not fade.
1 Pet. 5:4 When Chief Shepherd appears, will receive, unfading crown of glory.
1 Tim. 1:17 To King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor, glory.
Rom. 1:22-23 Exchanged the glory of the incorruptible God.
1 Cor. 9:25 They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable.
Rom. 2:7 By perseverance, doing good seek for glory and honor and immortality.
1 Cor. 15:42-43 It is sown a perishable body, it is raised an imperishable body.
2 Tim. 1:10-11 Jesus abolished death, brought life, immortality through gospel.
1 Tim. 6:16 Who alone possesses immortality, dwells in unapproachable light.
1 Cor. 15:50-54 Nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable…the dead will
be raised imperishable…
These words would have been affixed to punishment had the Bible intended to teach endless punishment.

HELL, NAMES AND HISTORY
1 Pet. 3:17-20 He went and made proclamation to the spirits in prison.

O.T. Names and Translations
The word Hell, in the O.T., is always a translation of the Hebrew word Sheol, which occurs 64 times, and is rendered “hell” 32 times, “grave” 29 times, and “pit” 3 times in the King James Version.

The radical and primary meaning is, the place or the state of the dead.
(Gen. 37:35; Job 14:13; Ps. 6:5, 139:8)

N.T. Names and Translations
There are three words translated “Hell” in the N.T., Hades and Tartarus, which are Greek, and Gehenna, which is the Greek form of the Hebrew words Gee and Hinnom, meaning “the valley of Hinnom.”

Hades occurs eleven times and is rendered “grave” once, and “hell” ten times.

Hades first or primary meaning is, grave or state of the dead. Hades is also used in a figurative sense to represent a state of degradation, calamity, or suffering. Hades is also a name of a Greek mythological god of the underworld.

Vines Dictionary states:
“The word is used four times in the Gospels, and always by the Lord, (Matt. 11:23, 16:18; Lk. 10:15, 16:23); it is used with reference to the soul of Christ, (Ac. 2:27, 31); Christ declares that He has the keys of it, (Rev. 1:18); in (Rev. 6:8) it is personified, with the signification of the temporary destiny of the doomed; it is to give up those who are therein, (Rev. 20:13), and is to be cast into the lake of fire, (v. 14).”

All of the above references have no time duration reference. All in Hades will be judged, even the Devil and his angles, and eventually brought to right standing with God.

Also note:
Rev. 20:13 And the sea gave up the dead, which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead, which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. (KJV)

“Every man” here is just “every”; “man” is supplied,
Strong’s #1538 hekastos (hek'-as-tos); as if a superlative of hekas (afar); each or every: KJV-- any, both, each (one), every (man, one, woman), particularly.

So every or all will be judged at that time. Still no time duration note in the context.

Tartarus occurs only once. (2 Pet. 2:4 again no time duration noted) In Greek mythology, the lowest region of the underworld. According to Hesiod and Virgil, Tartarus is as far below Hades as the earth is below the heavens and is closed in by iron gates. In some accounts Zeus, the father of the gods, after leading the gods to victory over the Titans, banished his father, Cronus, and the other Titans to Tartarus. The name Tartarus was later employed sometimes as a synonym for Hades, or the underworld in general, but more frequently for the place of damnation where the wicked were punished after death. Such legendary sinners as Ixion, king of the Lapiths, Sisyphus, king of Corinth, and Tantalus, a mortal son of Zeus, were placed in Tartarus.






Gehenna (Greek Geenna; Hebrew Ge Hinnom), Valley of Hinnom, near Jerusalem. Because some of the Israelites are supposed to have sacrificed their children to Moloch there (see 2 Ki. 23:10), the valley came to be regarded as a place of abomination. In a later period it was made a refuse dump, and perpetual fires were maintained there to prevent pestilence. Thus, in the New Testament, Gehenna became synonymous with hell. (Today it is a nice green park in Israel.)
(Matt. 5:22, 29, 30; 10:28; 18:9; 23:15; 23:33; Mk. 9:43, 45, 47; Lk. 12:5; Jas 3:6)

Again there is no time duration reference in any of these verses.

The Valley of Hinnom was and is a terrible abominable place for ones body to be placed at death. It was regarded as shameful to family members to have a loved one dumped there. It was bad for the family name, reputation and social status. Criminals were often tossed in naked and were urinated on. This place is the literal garbage dump for Jerusalem. It is used figuratively in reference to Hell fire or place of torment.

If a person is dead, how do they feel flames burning? Can a spirit burn? This idea of perpetual burning makes no sense in the spiritual, when these verses are referring to a literal physical place.

What about Mk. 9:43-48?
Mk. 9:43-48 And if thy hand offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter into life maimed, than having two hands to go into hell, into the fire that never shall be
quenched: 44 Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. 45 And
if thy foot offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter halt into life, than having two feet to be cast into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched:
46 Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. 47 And if thine
eye offend thee, pluck it out: it is better for thee to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire: 48 Where their worm
dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. (KJV)

Here is the Strongs number: 762 asbestos (as'-bes-tos); from 1 (as a negative particle) and a derivative of 4570; not extinguished, i.e. (by implication) perpetual: KJV-- not to be quenched, unquenchable.

At first glance it may seem that,”fire not quenched” would mean “forever.”

But does it?

This same word 762 asbestos is used in two other places in scripture.

Matt. 3:12 Whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire. (KJV)
Lk. 3:17 Whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge his floor, and will gather the wheat into his garner; but the chaff he will burn with fire unquenchable. (KJV)

What happens to wood or paper when they are placed in fire and it is not quenched? They burn up. If the fire is not extinguished, all fuel (chaff) will be consumed. These verses show that the purifying fire is unquenchable; it does not again show duration of time. Remember the fire we are talking about is the all consuming fire, the presence of God Himself. (Deut. 4:24; Heb. 12:9; Rev. 14:10)
Also note the same word for fire here is used as in another passage:

1 Pet. 1:7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: (KJV)

4442 pur (poor); fire
a primary word; "fire" (literally or figuratively, specifically, lightning):
KJV-- fiery, fire. (Ref: Job 23:10; Prov. 17:3, 27:21; Isa. 48:10; 1Cor. 3:13; Rev. 3:18)

So what kind of fire is this? A refining fire to purify and to make clean. Once again to bring about repentance and a change of heart. The presence of God.


UNIVERSAL SALVATION (ALL mankind shall one day see the Salvation of God)
General Scripture references
Please note, this is not an exhaustive list; however, this should be sufficient to prove that Universal Salvation is Biblical and is a general tenor doctrine. Notice the words all and every in many of these verses. All and every mean what?
O.T. Proof Texts
Gen. 12:3 And in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.
Gen. 22:18 And in your seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed.
Ex. 34:7 Who forgives iniquity, transgression and sin.
1 Sam. 2:6 The LORD kills and makes alive; He brings down to Sheol, raises up.
2 Sam. 14:14 God plans ways so the banished one may not be cast out from him.
Ps. 8:6 Thou hast put all things under his feet.
Ps. 30:5 For His anger is but for a moment.
Ps. 66:3-4 Enemies will give obedience to Thee. All the earth will worship.
Ps. 72:8 May he also rule from sea to sea, from the River to the ends of the earth.
Ps. 72:11 And let all kings bow down before him, all nations serve him.
Ps. 72:17 Let all nations call him blessed.
Ps. 98:3 All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
Ps. 150:6 Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD.
Isa. 2:2 And all the nations will stream to it the mountain of the Lord.
Isa. 11:9 The earth full of knowledge of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.

Isa. 25:6 LORD of hosts will prepare a lavish banquet for all peoples on this
mountain.
Isa. 25:8 God will swallow up death for all time, will wipe tears away from all
faces.
Isa. 43:11 I, even I, am the LORD; And there is no savior besides Me.
Jer. 4:2 The nations will bless themselves in Him, And in Him they will glory.
Lam. 3:31-32 Lord will not reject forever, if He causes grief, He will have
compassion, according to His abundant loving-kindness.
Ezek. 33:11 Takes no pleasure in death of wicked, rather wicked turn and live.
Dan. 7:14 All the peoples, nations, and men of every language might serve Him.
Hos. 2:23 And I will say to those who were not My people, You are My people.
And they will say, Thou art my God!
Joel 2:28 That I will pour out My Spirit on all mankind.
Mic. 7:18 He does not retain His anger forever, He delights in unchanging love.
Hab. 2:14 The earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD.
Mal. 1:11 My name will be great among the nations.


Other O.T. references:
Gen. 26:4, 28:14; Job 30:23; Ps, 22:27-28, 65:2,5, 67:2-4,7, 86:9-10, 96:1-2,7, 102:18,22, 103:8-10,22, 117:1-2, 136, 145:10,21, 148; Isa. 12:1-6, 26:19, 35:10, 40:5, 42:10-12, 45:21-25, 49:6, 52:10, 53:10-12, 61:11, 66:23; Jer. 16:19; Ezk.18:23,32, 34:16; Hos. 1:10, 11:8-9, 13:14; Jonah 2:9; Mic. 5:4; Zech. 2:11, 8:20-23, 9:10, 13:9, 14:9; Mal. 3:15-17


N.T. Proof Texts
Matt. 18:11 For the Son of Man has come to save that which was lost.
Matt. 28:19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations.
Lk. 2:10-11 I bring you good news of a great joy which shall be for all the people.
Lk. 3:6 And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.
Lk. 9:56 The Son of Man did not come to destroy men's lives, but to save them.
Lk. 19:10 For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.
Jn. 1:7-8 That he might bear witness of the light, that all will believe through him.
Jn. 1:9-10 There was true light which, coming into world, enlightens every man.
Jn. 1:29 Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.
Jn. 3:17 The world should be saved through Him. (Jesus)
Jn. 3:35 The Father loves the Son, and has given all things into His hand.
Jn. 4:42 Know that this One is indeed the Savior of the world.
Jn. 5:23 In order that all may honor the Son, even as they honor the Father.
Jn. 6:33 The bread of God, comes down out of heaven, gives life to the world.
Jn. 6:39 I lose nothing, but raise it up on the last day.
Jn. 12:32 And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to Myself.
Jn. 12:47 I did not come to judge the world, but to save the world.
Ac. 3:21 Whom heaven must receive until the period of restoration of all things.
Ac. 13:47 That You should bring salvation to the end of the earth.
Rom. 5:18 One act of righteousness, resulted justification of life to all men.
Rom. 15:11 And let all the peoples praise Him.
1 Cor. 11:3 But I want you to understand that Christ is the head of every man.
1 Cor. 15:22 For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all shall be made alive.
1 Cor. 15:26 The last enemy that will be abolished is death.
Eph. 1:10 The summing up of all things in Christ.
Col. 1:20 And through Him to reconcile all things to Himself.
Col. 3:11 But Christ is all, and in all.
Phil. 2:10 In Jesus name every knee should bow, in Heaven, Earth, and under Earth.
Phil. 2:11 Every tongue confess, Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
1 Tim. 1:15 That Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.
1 Tim. 2:3-4 God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved.
1 Tim. 4:10-11 Hope, living God, who is, Savior of all men, especially believers.
Titus 2:11 For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men.
Heb. 2:8 Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet.
Heb. 10:10 Offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
1 Jn. 2:2 The propitiation for our sins; not for ours only, but also the whole world.
1 Jn. 4:14 The Father has sent the Son to be the Savior of the world.
Rev. 5:9 Purchased for God with Thy blood, every tribe, tongue, people, nation.
Rev. 15:4 For all the nations will come and worship before Thee.

Other N.T. references
Matt. 1:21, 12:21; Mk. 16:15; Lk. 24:47; Jn. 11:51-52, 13:3, 17:2; Ac. 2:17; Rom. 9:25-26, 10:11-13, 11:30-36; 2 Cor 5:14-21; Eph 3:9,15; 1 Tim 3:16; 2 Tim 2:4; Heb. 1:2, 2:2, 7:25, 1 Pet. 3:22; 2 Pet. 3:9; Rev. 1:5, 7:9-12, 11:15, 21:3-4.

Salvation for the Devil and Demons
Now this one may be a little hard to swallow, however think about this for a minute. What position and state of sinfulness were you in before the Lord came into your life? When we hear that the Devil and demons will one day be redeemed, we think of them in there current state of darkness. In the scriptures noted in the Proof Texts section, you just read numerous examples of how God Almighty is a forgiving God and does not stay angry forever. (ex. Mic. 7:18 the word “forever” here means forever; Strong’s #5703 ad: duration, perpetuity)

Job 42:2 I know that Thou canst do all things, and that no purpose of thine can
be thwarted.
Ps. 8:6 Thou dost make him to rule over the works of Thy hands; Thou hast put
all things under his feet.
Ac. 3:21 Until the period of restoration of all things.
Jn. 16:15-16 All things that the Father has are Mine.
Mk. 10:27-28 For all things are possible with God.
Rom. 11:36 For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things.
Eph. 1:22 He put all things in subjection under His feet, and gave Him as head
over all things to the church.
Heb. 2:8 Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet.

1 Cor. 15:25-28 For He must reign until He has put all His enemies under His feet. 26 The last enemy that will be abolished is death. 27 For He has put all things in subjection under His feet. But when He says, "All things are put in subjection," it is evident that He is excepted who put all things in subjection to Him. For in subjecting all things to him, He left nothing that is not subject to him. But now we do not yet see all things subjected to him. But one day we will.

1 Pet. 3:22 Angels and authorities and powers had been subjected to Him.
Col. 1:15-20 God reconciles all things to Himself.
Phil. 2:9-11 Every knee will bow, every tongue confess.
1 Pet. 3:22 Angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him. (KJV)
Isa. 45:23 And will not turn back, that to Me every knee will bow, every tongue
will swear allegiance.
Heb. 1:6 6 And let all the angels of God worship Him.
Rev. 5:13 And every created thing which is in heaven and on the earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all things in them, I heard saying, "To Him who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb, be blessing and honor and glory and dominion forever and ever.” (Age of the Ages)

Lets again let scripture interpret our ideas and doctrines, consider the following:

Col. 1:15-20 And He is the image of the invisible God, the first-born of all creation. 16 For by Him all things were created, {both} in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities-- all things have been created by Him and for Him. 17 And He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. 18 He is also head of the body, the church; and He is the beginning, the first-born from the dead; so that He Himself might come to have first place in everything. 19 For it was the {Father's} good pleasure for all the fulness to dwell in Him, 20 and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, having made peace through the blood of His cross; through Him, {I say} whether things on earth or things in heaven. (NAS)

3956 pas- all things 1) individually: each, every, any, all, the whole, everyone, all things, everything 2) collectively: some of all types

3772 ouranos- things in heaven 1) the vaulted expanse of the sky with all things visible in it a) the universe, the world b) the aerial heavens or sky, the region where the clouds and the tempests gather, and where thunder and lightning are produced c) the sidereal (starry) heavens
2) the region above the sidereal heavens, the seat of order of things eternal and consummately perfect where God dwells and other heavenly beings

Reconciles all things to Himself. Where do the Devil and demons dwell?

Eph. 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. (KJV)

2032 epouranios (ep-oo-ran'-ee-os); high places 1) existing in heaven a) things that take place in heaven b) the heavenly regions 1) heaven itself, the abode of God and angels 2) the lower heavens, used of the stars 3) the heavens, used of the clouds c) the heavenly temple or sanctuary 2) used of heavenly origin or nature

Phil. 2:9-11 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (KJV)

2032 epouranios (ep-oo-ran'-ee-os);
from 1909 and 3772; above the sky:
KJV-- celestial, (in) heaven (-ly), high.

1919 epigeios (ep-ig'-i-os);
from 1909 and 1093; worldly (physically or morally):
KJV-- earthly, in earth, terrestrial.

2709 katachthonios (kat-akh-thon'-ee-os);
from 2596 and chthon (the ground); subterranean, i.e. infernal (belonging to the world of departed spirits):
KJV-- under the earth.

Every tongue confesses? Does the hand of God force this confession? Are all forced and made to confess or will this big bad wrathful God smash them if they don’t? No.

1843 exomologeo (ex-om-ol-og-eh'-o); confess
from 1537 and 3670; to acknowledge or (by implication of assent) agree fully:
1) to confess 2) to profess a) to acknowledge openly and joyfully b) to one's honor: to celebrate, give praise to c) to profess that one will do something, to promise, to agree, to engage.

Look at this one.
1 Pet. 3:22 Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him. (KJV)



Purposeful Correction by the Touchstone
Rev. 20:10 And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night forever and ever. (KJV) (ie. Ages of the Ages)

Strong’s #928 basanizo-tormented from #931
1) to test (metals) by the touchstone, which is a black siliceous stone used to test the purity of gold or silver by the color of the streak produced on it by rubbing it with either metal 2) to question by applying torture 3) to torture 4) to vex with grievous pains (used of body or mind), to torment 5) to be harassed, to be distressed; used of those who are struggling at sea with a head wind.

#931 basanos-torment
1) a touchstone, which is a black siliceous stone used to test the purity of gold or silver by the color of the streak produced on it by rubbing it with either metal 2) the rack or instrument of torture by which one is forced to divulge the truth 3) torture, torment, acute pains a) used of the pains of a disease b) used of those in hell after death

Tortured and tested until what? You mean to say that the Bible teaches that God torments!? Yes, God torments. God also tests, to bring about repentance, to purify by the process of purification by fire, and for how long?
(Matt. 4:24; Lk. 16:23, 28)

Mk. 5:7 I adjure thee by God, that thou torment me not.
L.k. 8:28 I beseech thee, torment me not. (KJV)

#928 basanizo-tormented from #931 same word as above
Even the demons know that they will be tormented, or as seen before tested by the touchstone, and for how long? Do these verses even say?
Matt. 18:21-23 Forgiveness, seventy seven times seven. Does He not do the same?
(1 Jn. 4:16)
Matt. 12:31-32 Blaspheme against the Spirit will be either in this age or in the age
to come.

So how long does this torment and penal punishment last? “in this age or in the age to come” How long is that? The Lord only knows. However long it takes.
(Lk. 12:54-56)

Again, “forever and ever” here is, “Age of the Ages”, which is however long it takes to complete process of testing by the touchstone to make a metal (soul) pure. (Rev. 3:18; 1 Pet. 1:7)

How can anything be added to forever anyway? Forever and ever is an illogical statement. If the cup is all the way full how can anymore be added? This doesn’t make sense.

Again look how translators have skewed the scripture.

1 Cor. 3:13 Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. (KJV)

Every man translated here is, 1538 hekastos (hek'-as-tos); as if a superlative of hekas (afar); each or every:
KJV-- any, both, each (one), every (man, one, woman), particularly.

Which means each or every, the word “man” is supplied again this changes what this verse really says.

Let us try it again, what should this verse really say?

1 Cor. 3:13 Every work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every work of what sort it is.

Another scripture to consider is:

Read Mk. 5:1-17 and Lk. 8:26-35 for context.

Mk. 5:7 And cried with a loud voice, and said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of the most high God? I adjure thee by God, that thou torment me not. (KJV)

Lk. 8:28 When he saw Jesus, he cried out, and fell down before him, and with a loud voice said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God most high? I beseech thee, torment me not. (KJV)

928 basanizo-tormented from 931 same word as above

Even the Demons know that they will be tormented, or as seen before tested by the touchstone, and for how long? Do these verses even say?

Matt. 18:21-23
21 Then Peter came to Him and said, "Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?"
22 Jesus said to him, "I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven. NKJV

Why is it that the Lord asks us to forgive seventy times seven?

Does He not do the same? Yes, even in a greater measure, because God is Love.
(1 Jn. 4:16)

Just because we can’t comprehend this Agape Love, does not mean that it does not exist.

How long will this punishment last? How ever long it takes one to change their heart, repent, and turn from their wicked ways.

Matt. 12:31-32
31 "Therefore I say to you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven men. 32 Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man, it will be forgiven him; but whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit, it will not be forgiven him, either in this age or in the age to come. NKJV

So how long does this torment and penal punishment last?

“in this age or in the age to come” How long is that? The Lord only knows.

How about this? There is a lot here; we will just cover the points pertaining to this study.

Rev. 14:9-12 A third angel followed them and said in a loud voice: "If anyone worships the beast and his image and receives his mark on the forehead or on the hand, 10 he, too, will drink of the wine of God's fury, which has been poured full strength into the cup of his wrath. He will be tormented with burning sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and of the Lamb. 11 And the smoke of their torment rises for ever and ever. There is no rest day or night for those who worship the beast and his image, or for anyone who receives the mark of his name." NIV

Why are these tormented day and night in the presence of the lamb and his holy angels? What joy do they have and delight is it for them to see Gods very own creation in fire mindless torment day in and out forever and ever? Are they writhing, wringing their hands that they can’t do anything about this horrible site? Is there some sadistic pleasure in this? Why in their presence?

Again the word for tormented here is:
NT:928 basanizo (bas-an-id'-zo); from NT:931; to torture:
KJV - pain, toil, torment, toss, vex.



NT:931 basanos (bas'-an-os); perhaps remotely from the same as NT:939 (through the notion of going to the bottom); a touch-stone, i.e. (by analogy) torture:
KJV - torment.

NT:939 basis (bas'-ece); from baino (to walk); a pace ("base"), i.e. (by implication) the foot: KJV - foot.

Wow, tested in their walk, their feet cleansed?! The word presence, what does this mean?

NT:1799 enopion (en-o'-pee-on); neuter of a compound of NT:1722 and a derivative of NT:3700; in the face of (literally or figuratively):
KJV - before, in the presence (sight) of, to.

Forever and ever? Again, Ages of the ages.

RESURRECTION, OUR HOPE IN CHRIST
Matt. 27:52 Tombs were opened; bodies of saints who had fallen asleep raised.
Rom. 8:11 He who raised Christ Jesus from dead will give life, your mortal
bodies.
Phil. 3:21 Will transform, body of our humble state to conformity in, His glory.
Isa. 26:19 Their corpses rise, the earth will give birth to departed spirits.
Ezk. 37:14 And I will put My Spirit within you, and you will come to life.
Jn. 5:28-29 All who are in the tombs shall hear His voice, and shall come forth.
Rom. 6:4 Christ was raised from dead, so we too might walk in newness of life.
Rom. 6:5 Certainly we shall be also in the likeness of His resurrection.
1 Cor. 6:13-15 God raised the Lord, but will also raise us up through His power.
1 Cor. 15:16-17 For if the dead are not raised, not even Christ has been raised.
1 Cor. 15:20 Christ was raised from, dead, first fruits of those who are asleep.
1 Cor. 15:21 Since by a man came death, by man also came, resurrection, of dead.
1 Cor. 15:22 For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all shall be made alive.

Other scriptural References
(1 Cor. 15:44-54; 1 Thess. 4:14; 1 Pet. 3:18-19; Matt. 13:43; Rom. 8:29-30; 2 Cor. 3:18; 2 Cor. 4:14; 1 Jn. 3:2)

DEATH (the separation of the soul and the spirit from the body)
Gen. 35:18 As Rachel’s soul was departing (for she died), she called his name
Benoni.
1 Ki. 17:21 Elijah cried to God, let this child’s soul come into him again.
Lk. 8:55 The spirit of the ruler’s daughter returned, and she arose.
Lk. 23:46 Jesus said, “Into thy hands I commend my spirit.”
Ac. 2:27,31 Christ’s soul was not left in Hades.
Ac. 7:59 Stephen said, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”
Ac. 20:10 Paul said, trouble not yourselves for his soul (Greek) is in him.
2 Cor. 5:6-9 To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.
Jas. 2:26 The body without the spirit is dead.
(Also: Phil. 1:23; 2 Tim. 4:6; Ac. 9:40)

Death is Abolished
1 Cor. 15:53-55 But when this perishable will have put on the imperishable, and this mortal will have put on immortality, then will come about the saying that is written, “Death is swallowed up in victory.” 55 “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?”
Rev. 1:18 I have the keys of death and of Hades.
Rev. 20:14-15 Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire.

If Death and Hades are abolished. Then there is no one, no thing in death.
(1 Cor. 15:22)

REBUTTAL OF REINCARNATION
Heb. 9:27 It is appointed for men to die once, after this comes judgment.
Gen. 3:19 For you are dust, and to dust you shall return.
2 Sam. 14:14 We, like water spilled on ground, cannot be gathered up again.
Job 14:5 Man’s days are determined, his limits, Thou hast set, he cannot pass.
Eccl. 12:7 The spirit will return to God who gave it. (Not back to Earth)
Ps. 103:15-16 As for man, his days, like grass; the wind passed over, it is no more.
Ps. 89:48 Can man live and not see death? Or deliver his soul from, Sheol?


The Big picture
Rev. 21:8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death. (KJV)

Fire here is 4442 pur as stated earlier, Brimstone is:
2303 theion-brimstone (sulphur); divine incense, because burning brimstone was regarded as having power to purify, and to ward off disease

So the second death is to purify, to purify those souls more. They are still not done yet, they still have dross or sin present. They are being tormented to bring about repentance. This process is also called dying to self. God cannot dwell where there is sin. Remember He desires ALL to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. (1 Tim 2:4) This process is showing that God in His infinite Love and Mercy is very patient and willing to test to torment those He loves to bring a change of heart. God merely loves His enemies as He so commanded us to do. He sends His children to correction.

Who has the keys of hell and death? Jesus

Rev. 1:18 I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death. (KJV)

What happens to the last enemy at some point in time?

1 Cor. 15:26 The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. (KJV)

1 Cor. 15:54-55 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. 55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? (KJV)

Even death and Hell will no longer exist. So how can eternal torment be eternal if the Bible says it will no longer exist? There will no longer be a need for testing and torment because God will be ALL, and in ALL!!

Note: In <1> the most authentic mss. have thanatos, "death," in the 2nd part of the verse, instead of "hades," which the KJV wrongly renders "grave" ("hell," in the marg.).
(from Vine's Expository Dictionary of Biblical Words)
(Copyright (C) 1985, Thomas Nelson Publishers)

1 Cor. 15:28 And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all. (KJV)

Wow! What a wonderful plan! God loses nothing! God wins! ALL will be redeemed! ALL, ALL, ALL!!! How many is ALL? Everyone!!

Hallelujah!!!!!!!

The Big picture in type
Read Ezek. 47:1-12
In short, we see the new temple; the river of life flowing out of the temple bringing healing to ALL nations, Fishermen will stand on the shore and cast nets into the waters to be fishers of men. There will be those in miry places and marshes that will not be healed in that age, however shall be given over to salt. (if the salt loses it saltiness how can it be made salty again) It may take many ages to purify these and bring about repentance. We do know that they will be made whole again during some AGE. (1 Cor. 15:22-28, 15:54-55; Col. 1:15-20; Phil.2:9-11)




Read Rev 21 and 22
Kind of the same pictures as above except we have a little more information, the gates of the city are open Rev. 21:25, for all to freely enter as soon as they repent and turn from their ways. We also see in Rev. 22:17 that the Bride in that day will offer freely of the Spirit of God to all who will receive it. The Spirit and the Bride say COME!

Contradictions or Biblical truth?

Heb. 9:27-28 And inasmuch as it is appointed for men to die once and after this {comes} judgment, 28 so Christ also, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, shall appear a second time for salvation without {reference to} sin, to those who eagerly await Him. (NAS)

Nowhere in scripture does it say, “After death all hope is gone!” Thus we see that:
• Sodom’s fiery judgment is “eternal” (Jude 7)- until – God “will restore the fortunes of Sodom” (Ez.16: 53-55)
• Israel’s “affliction is incurable” (Jer. 30:12)- until –the Lord “will restore health” and heal her wounds (Jer. 30: 17)
• The sin if Samaria “is incurable” (Mic. 1:9)- until –the Lord “will restore…the fortunes of Samaria” (Ez. 16:53)
• Ammon is to become a “waste land forever” and “rise no more” (Zeph. 2:9, Jer. 25:27) until –the Lord will “restore the fortunes of the Ammonites” (Jer. 49:6)
• Egypt and Elam will “rise no more” (Jer. 25:27)- until –the Lord will “restore the fortunes of Egypt” (Ez. 29:14) and “restore the fortunes of Elam (Jer. 49:39)
• Moab is destroyed (Jer. 48:4, 42)- until –the Lord ”will restore the fortunes of Moab” (Jer. 48:47)
• Israel’s judgment last “forever”- until – the Spirit is poured out and God restores it (Isa. 32: 13-15)

Are these apparent contradictions of scripture? Did the Lord change His mind? Or, are these judgments only for a time, or an AGE?

Ponderings

• A kind Father would not punish without purpose. What Father would send his children to endless punishment? (Mal. 2:10)
• All souls belong to God; Does God give these up to the Devil forever to loose them? (Ezek. 18:4)
• We are commanded by God to provide for our own house, so how can He abandon His own children in punishment?
• All things given to Jesus by God/ All people. (Ps 2:8; Jn. 3:35)
• All shall come, all flesh. (Jn. 17:2)
• None cast out. (Jn. 6:37)
• Who wills Salvation for All men, (Matt. 6:10; 1 Tim. 2:4)
• Would God inspire us to pray for salvation for all men if He knew that they would not be saved?
• God wills that we come into relationship with Him on this side of life, so we do not have to go through correction and that we may start in our growth into the image and likeness of His Son.
• If God wills all men to be saved then He would have made provision for all to be saved.
• 1 Jn. 4:8 God is Love, Rom. 13:10 Love works no ill, If God is Love and Love works no ill, then eternal torment would be a conflict of His own nature. If one is punished beyond recompense that would be vengeful, evil, and mindless. Is that Gods just reward for evil?

Arguments
Questions one must consider if ascribing to the orthodox damnation doctrine
O.D.D.

• If Jesus preached eternal torment to the Samaritans in Jn. 4:42, would they have concluded that Jesus is the savior of the whole world?
• How come Moses or none of the O.T. prophets ever mentioned such a horrible consequence to disobedience?
• Does eternity prove that Satan did a better job at corrupting creation than Christ did in redeeming it?
• Does eternity show that God devised His own everlasting defeat when He planned His creation?
• Does eternity demonstrate that Christ’s atonement for all mankind (in many cases) is an everlasting failure?
• Does eternity show that Loving Kindness, Himself, has created billions of people whom He foreknew would never hear Christ proclaimed during their earthly lives and therefore would suffer forever? Wouldn’t that make God infinitely evil? Punishment must fit the crime if He judges justly.
• Will eternity reveal that love is neither committed nor unfailing -nor is it by any means unconditional?
• Will eternity show that Holy Love has foreseen and therefore fore-planned for everlasting disaster for much of His own creation?
• Does eternity demonstrate that Christ is not the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world? Or does it reveal Him as the Lamb of God who “tried” to take away the worlds sin and failed?
• Was Jesus a partial Savior?



Conclusion

The idea of Universal Salvation is not a new doctrine by any means. As seen in this brief study on the subject we can safely and undoubtedly say with utmost certainty Universal Salvation IS a general tenor doctrine taught throughout the Bible. Moses the man who penned the Torah by the Spirit of the living God never once mentioned such a horrible penalty of eternal punishments. The Prophets, Historical and Poetical books do not mention eternal punishments. Jesus and the Apostles did not teach eternal death. So why are we forced to believe it? Why are we forced to believe that God is some monster, lacking self control over His revenge on the wicked? Is that what the "Good News" is all about?

Is this the God you know? Is this the loving God of the Bible whom preachers throughout the Ages have preached about?

You decide.

Chances are you just didn't think that much about the subject to begin with and only believed what you were told. Maybe somewhere in the back of your mind or in your heart you knew and have always known that God is love. (1Jn 4:8;16) and this doctrine of eternal damnation was not true and cannot be true.

How can this God of Love throw His own creation into a mindless sadistic eternal torture forever and ever? What pleasure does He have in this? What is the purpose of torment? What is the purpose of Hell?

Correction! As a Father disciplines a Son! With Love!

Deut. 8:5 Thus you are to know in your heart that the LORD your God was disciplining you just as a man disciplines his son. (also: Prov. 13:24; Heb. 12:6, 10)

What about the people whom God has put into our lives that have affected us, changed us and helped to lay the foundation of who we are? What about Parents, Grandma, Grandpa, brothers, sisters, and friends who have a place of love in your heart.
Will this God of Love just rip them and the remembrance of them out of your heart? Was their presence in your life just meaningless?

No! No! No!

One day "All" will be saved! Yes! ALL!!!

That is the Gospel! That is the Blessed hope! That is the "GOOD NEWS"!!!
(Rom 5:8)

That is why Jesus Christ came.

Jn. 3:16-17 For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world should be saved through Him. NAS

Yes the whole world!

The Gospel of Salvation is not some fear mongering, ruthless consequence to inaction.

Believe or Burn forever and ever is NOT the Gospel!

Believe or Burn forever and ever rejects everything that God is, was and has intended for this creation. This entire study has just proved that.

The Gospel of Salvation is this:

1 Cor. 15:3-5 For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, NAS

Jn. 20:31 but these have been written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name. NAS

Ac. 16:31 And they said, Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you shall be saved, you and your household. NAS

Whether it be in this Age or the Age to come you will one day know the love of God. You will one day see all those that have gone on before you. They are not lost forever. Every single person that has ever lived and breathed on this planet from the beginning of time as we know it WILL BE SAVED!

One day “death will be swallowed up in victory”! (1 Cor. 15:54)

Believe, just believe. Ask, just ask. Knock and the door will open.

Jesus is ready and waiting for you right now. Today is the day of Salvation.

Start the process of Salvation and ask Him right now to come into your heart.

1 Cor 1:18 For the word of the cross is to those who are perishing foolishness, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. NAS
(Lk. 13:23; Ac. 2:47, 27:20; 2 Cor. 2:15)
Being saved, again nowhere in scripture is the phrase, got saved or get saved.

Work out your Salvation
Phil. 2:12 ….work out your salvation with fear and trembling; NAS

Working out your Salvation is the plan of God. None of us here on Earth is completely saved. Jesus was the first born of all creation. The Rev. 3:14
the Beginning of the creation of God, NAS

Col. 1:15 And He is the image of the invisible God, the first-born of all creation.
NAS

Rev. 12:10 And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, "Now the salvation, and the power, and the kingdom of our God and the authority of His Christ have come, for the accuser of our brethren has been thrown down, who accuses them before our God day and night. NAS

For the Bride complete Salvation happens at Rev 12:10 at the rapture.

Until then we must Phil. 2:12 … work out your salvation with fear and trembling
We must die daily 1 Cor. 15:31 …. I die daily. NAS (Rom. 8:36, 2 Cor. 4:10)

By

Taking up your cross and walk in the steps of Jesus. Dieing to self.

Matt. 16:24 Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone wishes to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. NAS ( Matt. 10:38, Mk. 8:34; Lk. 9:23, 14:27)
1 Pet. 2:24 and He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed. NAS















Finally
The Purpose of Evil
by A.P. Adams
ABSOLUTE evil cannot exist because God is absolutely GOOD. The absolute is the unconditioned and unlimited. If there were absolute evil, then the good WOULD be limited, and hence NOT absolute, and hence again God would not be absolutely or infinitely good. But God IS infinite in goodness; hence evil is NOT infinite. Therefore it is relative, temporary and limited, and therefore again ENDLESS evil is an impossibility unless you make God less than infinite. Thus it is seen that the doctrine of endless torments is as contrary to reason as it is to scripture.










Lord Jesus,
Have mercy on me a sinner. Come into my heart and save me from my sins.
I believe that you lived and died, and that you were raised from the dead. I now accept your gift of life. The gift of your life, in which you gave for me on the cross. I thank you for your loving kindness and grace in which you poured out for me. Today, I accept your salvation. Cover me in your blood and wash me clean. Make me, mold me, break me, and keep me in your loving arms. Help me to know you and walk before you in humility and faithfulness, to work out my salvation with fear and trembling. In your name Jesus I pray. Amen.


Thank you, Lord Jesus for revealing your truths about the salvation of all that is in Heaven and on the Earth. That Death will be swallowed up in victory, and All nations will come and bend their knee and swear allegiance to you. Forgive me for believing a lie, that you did not finish the work that you started on the cross, and believing that you were sadistic god of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman mythologies. Have mercy Oh Lord and it is your goodness that leads us to repentance. Help me to know you for who you are. For you are Love, and in you there is no shadow of turning, and you have devised ways that the banished one may be restored. What a merciful Savior. Truly it is your goodness that leads us to repentance. Amen.





















If you have prayed this prayer or just need prayer.
or
If you would like follow up information regarding his study.
Please Contact: Tukwila Fellowship
253-767-5202

































































Revision 3 (3-2006)