What Does the Bible Teach About Hell?
Hell is one of the most serious and often misunderstood teachings in the Bible. Scripture does not present hell as mythology, symbolism, or exaggerated warning. The Bible speaks of hell as a real judgment that reflects God’s justice and holiness.
Because the subject is sobering, the Bible addresses it carefully and truthfully. Understanding what Scripture teaches about hell is necessary for understanding sin, justice, and salvation.
1) The Biblical Language for Hell
The Bible uses several terms when speaking about final judgment. In the New Testament, one of the primary words translated “hell” is geenna (γέεννα).
And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.
Matthew 10:28 (KJV)“Gehenna” was associated with judgment and destruction. Jesus used this term deliberately to describe the seriousness of final judgment.
2) Hell as Punishment for Sin
Scripture presents hell as the consequence of unrepented sin. Hell is not arbitrary; it reflects God’s righteous judgment.
For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Romans 6:23 (KJV)The contrast between death and eternal life highlights the seriousness of sin. Hell represents separation from God’s favorable presence.
3) Conscious and Just Judgment
The Bible does not describe hell as non-existence. Scripture presents judgment as conscious and just.
And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.
Matthew 25:46 (KJV)The same word “everlasting” is used for punishment and life. Scripture presents both realities as enduring.
4) Hell and God’s Justice
Hell demonstrates that God is just and does not overlook sin. Scripture teaches that God’s judgment is righteous and deserved.
Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?
Genesis 18:25 (KJV)God’s justice is never arbitrary or excessive. Hell reflects the seriousness of sin against a holy God.
5) Hell and the Call to Repentance
Scripture presents the reality of hell as a warning. The Bible calls people to repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.
The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
2 Peter 3:9 (KJV)God’s patience shows His mercy. The gospel offers salvation from judgment through Christ.
Conclusion
According to the Bible, hell is a real and serious judgment for sin. Scripture presents it as just, conscious, and eternal. The teaching of hell underscores the urgency and necessity of the gospel of Jesus Christ.