Saturday, October 9, 2010

October 9, 2010

"This is why it says: "When he ascended on high, he led captives in his train and gave gifts to men." (What does "he ascended" mean except that he also descended to the lower, earthly regions? He who descended is the very one who ascended higher than all the heavens, in order to fill the whole universe.)" Ephesians 4:8-10
Once more I want to address the often offered argument that "a loving God wouldn't send a person to hell."
Here's something to thing about. Jesus went to hell.
Anymore questions?
Don't you think that if God allowed His own Son to go to hell that you would be different?
When Jesus went to the cross He became the sacrifice for all of our sins - all of yours, all of mine and all of ours. He paid the penalty that that He didn't deserve to purchase the salvation that we couldn't afford. You will remember that when He assumed our sins on the cross the Father had to turn His back on His Son. That is when Christ cried out those painful words, "My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?"
Because Jesus died as a sinner He was condemned to Hell. Once the Atonement was completed the power of God delivered Him from the power of sin and death.
God is serious about Heaven and eternal life and salvation and hell. That is because He is serious about relationships. He created us to live in relationship with Him. His desire if for us to love Him and enjoy Him eternally. In order for that to happen He had to conquer the sin problem. Jesus did that. We must receive His provision by faith for the forgiveness of sins. Sin separates us from God just as it separated Jesus from the Father. If you die in that alienated condition you have no hope for eternity. You will spend eternity separated from Him. You will be forever alone, devoid of relationship with God or with anyone. Alone. Enveloped in total darkness. Tormented in agonizing fire.
If you go to hell it will be against the will of God and totally despite the grace of God. He has done everything He can to make it possible for you to live in relationship with Him and with all the redeemed saints of God for eternity! But you must avail yourself of His provision. You must confess your sin, repent, turn to Him by faith and walk in obedience all your days.
He conquered sin for you. He defeated death for you. He triumphed over hell. All you must do is believe Him and receive Him.
Should you refuse - well, you go to hell.