Hell

Hell may be described as rather like watching the news on television. On any night, in almost any country in the world, we are shown a fire, a bank robbery, armed warfare, an assault victim, etc. Yet, however grim the situation is, someone is trying to make it better. Firemen fight fires, the police are trying to catch the thief; someone is attempting to negotiate a solution to restore world peace; help is available for an assault victim. These people may not be able to solve everything immediately, but at least they are there and represent good opposing evil.

Now imagine an existence where every force which resists evil, and every helpful agency, is removed and evil is left to take over. This is the Bible's picture of hell. Robbery, arson, violence rampant, all with no one to help. War with no solution. Complete and utter loneliness and desolation. No wonder the Bible warns us about it, and urges us to take steps to avoid it.

- John Chapman, A Fresh Start (St Matthias Press, 1997) p. 146-147