Don't Want to Go to Hell? Read This!

"They perish because they did not accept the love of the truth and so be saved."  2 Thessalonians 2:10

It is often said that God does not send people to hell, but people choose to go to hell.  That is not true.  God created hell, initially for the devil and his army of fallen angels.  But now hell is also the final abode for people who do not go to heaven.  At the final judgment, Jesus will say those on the left, "Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels (Mt 25:41)."  God does send people to hell.

It is more accurate to say that God does not want to send anyone to hell.  "The Lord does not delay his promise, as some understand delay, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish but all to come to repentance (2 Pt 3:9)."  God "wants everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth (1 Tm 2:4)."  

In spite of this, many do go to hell.  Most people go to hell (Mt 7:13).  Why?  "They perish because they did not accept the love of the truth and so be saved (2 Thess 2:10)."  "So that all will be condemned -- those who did not believe the truth but delighted in unrighteousness (2 Thess 2:12)."

People go to hell because they reject the truth.  God does not want them to perish.  God has provided for their salvation through the cross of Christ.  But people refuse to believe the truth about Jesus, and therefore they perish.

God has made it very clear what we must do to be saved.  "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved -- you and your household (Acts 16:31)."  Put your faith in Jesus as the eternal Son of God who took on human flesh and died a criminal's death to pay for your sins.  This is the only way (Acts 4:12).

Friend, hell is very real (Read THIS).  And death may come for you today.  Are you sure you will go to heaven when you die?  If not, then make it your first order of business today to turn from your sins and trust in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior.  You can do that with a prayer like this one:

Lord Jesus, I believe in You.  I believe You are God in human flesh.  I believe You died for my sins and rose again.  I'm sorry for my sins, and I repent.  I give my life to You.  Please forgive me.  Save me.  Come into my life and be my God, my Master, my Savior.  Help me to live for You from this day forward.  Amen.