In the KJV, the word “hell” is found in 54 verses. Some of the modern versions try to minimize the occurrences of this word, which they wrongly do. A few cults (Jehovah Witnesses and others) deny the existence of the place, simply saying it refers to the grave. Some people also deny its existence, saying that the God of love would never make such a place.
The first occurrence of “Hell” in the Bible is found in Deuteronomy 32:22: “For a fire is kindled in mine anger, and shall burn unto the lowest hell, and shall consume the earth with her increase, and set on fire the foundations of the mountains.” Usually, the first time a word appears in the Bible it is very important because it helps explain later uses of the word. In this verse, substituting the word “hell” for the “grave” just does not make sense.
Another verse that also does not make sense if the word “Hell” is changed to “grave” is Psalm 9:17. It says: “The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God.” If it means grave, there is no threat here, since all people die. Also, if it means “grave,” it would imply that the righteous do not die.
Here are some Bible truths about Hell:
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Jesus created it (John 1:3 and Colossians 1:16)
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It was not made with man in mind – but for the Devil and his angels (Matthew 25:41)
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Jesus taught as though Hell was a real place – If there is no Hell, there is no reason for Him to have come and died for us.
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It is a place of real fire and torment (Luke 16:23)
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There is no escape (Luke 16:26)
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It is a place of memory – of the chances you had to be saved
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It is a place of eternal regret – wishing you had gotten saved when you had the chance!
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It is a place of complete darkness (Jude 6 and 13)
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The Bible does not mention Purgatory – the idea was made by people who believe in a works salvation.
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Hell can be compared to a holding tank for the wicked. Once judged, they will be cast into the Lake of Fire – their permanent prison. (Revelation 20:12-15)
Some things you will never find in Hell:
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Gospel tracts
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Bibles
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Mercy
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Grace
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Hope
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Kindness
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Pleasure
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Things you have accumulated in this life.
If Hell and the Lake of Fire were not such horrible places, Jesus’ death would be meaningless. He gladly came, took our place and died to pay for our sins because, He, in love – does not desire any human to go there. He does, however, leave the choice with you, but there is only one Door – repent and believe on Jesus Christ today to be your Lord and Savior.