Hell

Definition:  The Bible portrays Hell as a place of punishment, separation from God, and eternal torment for the wicked. However, there are different terms and descriptions associated with Hell, including:

1. Sheol/Hades: Often used to describe the realm of the dead or the grave. In the Old Testament, “Sheol” refers to a shadowy place where all souls go after death, whether righteous or wicked (e.g., Psalm 9:17, Isaiah 14:9).
2. Gehenna: This term, used by Jesus, refers to a place of fiery torment. It is often associated with the final place of punishment for the wicked (e.g., Matthew 5:22, Mark 9:43).
3. The Lake of Fire: Described in the Book of Revelation as the final destination for Satan, the beast, false prophets, and the wicked (Revelation 20:14-15). It symbolizes eternal separation from God and unending punishment.
4. Outer Darkness: A place of weeping and gnashing of teeth, reserved for those cast out of God’s presence (e.g., Matthew 8:12, 22:13).

Key Scriptures about Hell

1. Matthew 10:28
   “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.”
2. Mark 9:43-44
   “And if thy hand offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter into life maimed, than having two hands to go into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched: Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.”
3. Revelation 20:14-15
   “And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.”
4. Luke 16:23-24
   “And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.”
5. 2 Thessalonians 1:9
   “Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power.”

Prayer Points with Scriptures

1. Prayer for Deliverance from Eternal Punishment
   • Scripture: Matthew 25:46 “And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.”
   • Prayer: “Lord, I pray for Your mercy and grace to keep me from the path of everlasting punishment. Guide me to walk in righteousness and grant me eternal life in Your presence.”
2. Prayer for Salvation and Eternal Life
   • Scripture: John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
   • Prayer: “Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Son. I believe in Him and ask for salvation and the promise of everlasting life. Help me to live in a way that pleases You, so I may avoid the perils of Hell.”
3. Prayer Against the Torments of Hell
   • Scripture: Mark 9:43 “And if thy hand offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter into life maimed, than having two hands to go into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched.”
   • Prayer: “Lord, deliver me from any sin or temptation that leads to Hell. Give me the strength to cut off anything that hinders my relationship with You, that I may enter into eternal life with You.”
4. Prayer for Protection from the Second Death
   • Scripture: Revelation 20:14 “And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.”
   • Prayer: “Father, protect me from the second death and the lake of fire. Help me to remain steadfast in faith and obedience to You, so that my name will be written in the Book of Life.”
5. Prayer for Grace to Escape Judgment
   • Scripture: Romans 6:23 “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
   • Prayer: “Lord, I acknowledge that the wages of sin is death, but I thank You for the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ. Help me to receive Your grace and avoid the judgment of Hell.”

These prayers and scriptures help believers focus on seeking God’s mercy, living in righteousness, and avoiding the eternal consequences of Hell described in the Bible.

1. Accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior

• Scripture: John 3:16 (KJV) “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
• Explanation: The Bible teaches that salvation from eternal punishment comes through faith in Jesus Christ. Accepting Jesus as your Savior, believing in His death and resurrection for the forgiveness of sins, and submitting to Him as Lord is the foundation of avoiding Hell.
• Prayer: “Lord Jesus, I believe that You are the Son of God and that You died for my sins. I ask You to come into my life, forgive me, and be my Lord and Savior. Help me to live for You and avoid the path that leads to destruction.”

2. Repent of Your Sins

• Scripture: Acts 3:19 (KJV) “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord.”
• Explanation: Repentance means turning away from sin and changing your mind and heart towards God. It’s not just about feeling sorry for sin but actively seeking to live a life that honors God. Continual repentance helps you maintain a close relationship with God and avoid falling into a life that leads to Hell.
• Prayer: “Father, I repent of all my sins. Forgive me for the wrongs I have done, and help me to turn away from everything that separates me from You. Grant me the strength to live a life that is pleasing to You.”

3. Live a Life of Obedience to God

• Scripture: Matthew 7:21 (KJV) “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.”
• Explanation: Obedience to God’s commands is essential for avoiding Hell. It’s not enough to simply profess faith; it must be accompanied by a life that reflects the teachings of Christ. This includes loving God and loving others, following the commandments, and living out your faith in practical ways.
• Prayer: “Lord, help me to do Your will and live according to Your Word. Guide me in obedience to Your commands, and let my life be a reflection of Your love and holiness.”

4. Rely on God’s Grace

• Scripture: Ephesians 2:8-9 (KJV) “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
• Explanation: Salvation is ultimately a gift from God, not something you can earn by good works alone. Avoiding Hell is dependent on God’s grace, and this grace is accessed through faith in Jesus Christ. While obedience and good works are important, they flow out of a heart that has received God’s grace.
• Prayer: “Father, I acknowledge that it is by Your grace that I am saved. Thank You for the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. Help me to live by faith and rely on Your grace every day of my life.”

5. Maintain a Relationship with God through Prayer and Scripture

• Scripture: James 4:8 (KJV) “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.”
• Explanation: Maintaining a close relationship with God through regular prayer, Bible study, and worship strengthens your faith and keeps you on the path of righteousness. Drawing near to God allows you to receive His guidance and avoid the pitfalls that lead to Hell.
• Prayer: “Lord, help me to draw near to You every day. Teach me through Your Word and guide me in prayer, that I may walk closely with You and be protected from the temptations that lead to destruction.”

6. Persevere in Faith until the End

• Scripture: Matthew 24:13 (KJV) “But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.”
• Explanation: The Christian life is a journey that requires perseverance. Trials, temptations, and challenges will come, but remaining steadfast in your faith and trust in God is key to avoiding Hell. The promise of salvation is for those who endure in faith until the end.
• Prayer: “Heavenly Father, give me the strength to persevere in my faith. No matter the trials or temptations I face, help me to remain faithful to You and endure until the end so that I may receive the crown of life.”

7. Share the Gospel and Help Others Avoid Hell

• Scripture: Matthew 28:19-20 (KJV) “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you.”
• Explanation: Part of your responsibility as a believer is to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with others. Helping others come to know Christ and avoid Hell is a vital part of living out your faith. Evangelism and discipleship are ways to fulfill the Great Commission and help others find salvation.
• Prayer: “Lord, give me the boldness to share the Gospel with others. Help me to be a light in the world, leading others to You so that they too may avoid Hell and receive eternal life.”

Avoiding Hell, according to the Bible, is about placing your faith in Jesus Christ, repenting of sin, living a life of obedience, and relying on God’s grace. It’s a continuous journey of drawing near to God, enduring in faith, and sharing the Gospel with others. The Bible offers clear guidance on this path, emphasizing the importance of salvation through Christ and a life dedicated to following God’s will.