I have been struck lately of how much Christians like the idea of Hell. There have been a couple of incidents recently that have made me think about this.
First, Derrick was teaching a Sunday School class. Somebody asked about Hell. The possibility of Hell not being literal fire was discussed. The reaction was visible disappointment. No Hell = disappointment. Hmm.
In an another class there was a discussion of Romans 3. The Scripture speaks of God revealing Himself adequately for people anywhere to know God. It is not sufficient to allow the group to ponder God revealing Himself. Somebody had to quickly jump in with thoughts of people going to Hell if they do not profess Jesus’ name.
It is as though the Church is more excited about sending non-believers to Hell than they are excited about being with the Creator. What motivates this enthusiasm?
Some possible reasons:
1. We want heaven and don’t want others to have our reward – we cherish our exclusivity. The idea of the Prodigal son’s older brother.
2. We think it elevates us. If I am going to heaven and he is going to hell, I must be better than him. I am in by grace… but I did the necessary things to receive that grace.
3. Our interpretation of justice. “They may have all of the fun here one earth, but I will get my reward in heaven.”
I am certain there are many other motivations. I hope I will be motivated by love and grace, not judgement and competition.
sometimes I think they are like the police. At least like bad police. The ones that are more concerned with upholding the letter of the law. You know, the guy who follows the expectant father racing to deliver his delivering wife to the hospital so he can give him a ticket. They think that they hold the power and forget that they simply represent the ones that hold the power just as christians forget they represent the One who holds the power.