In most conversations about universal reconciliation, a handful of verses are frequently cited as proof texts for the existence of an eternal hell. However, in this article, we aim to provide an alternative understanding of these verses from a universalist perspective. It is important to note that different universalists may interpret these verses in varying ways, and this article presents my understanding of these verses, based on the Bible, the Greek text, and the beliefs of some of the greatest church fathers. While this is not an exhaustive exegesis of each verse, it offers a concise overview to challenge prevailing notions of eternal punishment and encourage deeper exploration of these scriptural passages.
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Does the parable of the sheep and the goats teach hell or universal reconciliation?
Jesus’ parable of the sheep and the goats (Mt 25:31ff.) is often cited as the key verse for the idea that there is an eternal hell. But if you look at the verses closely and not just read them superficially, you will discover that this is not the case. In fact, the opposite is true: the verses give hope for a future reconciliation of all people with Jesus.
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The Rich Man and Lazarus
The parable of the rich man and poor Lazarus is often used to justify the teaching of eternal suffering in hell. This article explores if this is reasonable and how the parable should be understood best.
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The meaning of Gehenna in the teachings of Jesus
Didn’t Jesus teach hell himself? What about “whoever says ‘Fool’ will be sent to fiery hell” (Mt 5:22 NET)? How does that fit together with the reconciliation of all people? By giving the Old Testament background of Gehenna, I’ll show that Jesus didn’t teach eternal punishment in hell but imminent national judgement.
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The word “hell” doesn’t exist in the Bible!
The word “hell” doesn’t exist in the Bible!
Whenever I am asked my opinion on the subject of hell, I usually answer with a counter-question: “What hell do you mean?” The word hell doesn’t exist in the Bible! Rather, there are 4 different words in the Bible, all of which have a different meaning, but unfortunately, all of them are often translated with the word hell. However, none of these 4 words has the meaning we often associate with the word hell. These 4 biblical words are often translated as hell:
13 reasons why I believe that in the end, Jesus will reconcile all people to himself
For me, the belief in an eternal hell has never been a problem. I’ve talked about hell more than any other Christian I’ve known. The teaching that God will reconcile all human beings with himself was a dangerous heresy for me. Here I want to explain 13 reasons why I can no longer believe in eternal torture, but am convinced that in the end, God will reconcile all people with himself.
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