Episode Summary: In this episode, Wes and TJ tackle what they consider the most misunderstood topic in Scripture: hell. They present a biblical case for annihilationism (final destruction) rather than eternal conscious torment, examining key passages and discussing how this view better aligns with God's loving character.

Main Scripture References:

• 2 Thessalonians 1:9 - "They will be punished with everlasting destruction and shut out from the presence of the Lord"

• Romans 6:23 - "The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord"

• Matthew 10:28 - "Do not fear those who kill the body. Fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell"

• Revelation 20:14 - References to hell as "the second death"

• Romans 8:1 - "There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus"

• Colossians 3:4 - "When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory"

Key Points:

1. Scripture points to death, destruction, and perishing as the consequences of sin rather than eternal conscious torment

2. The biblical purpose of judgment is justice and restoration—setting the world right, not inflicting never-ending punishment

3. Eternal life is a gift from God, not something humans innately possess, which challenges the concept of eternal suffering

4. For those in Christ, judgment is not something to fear but a declaration of righteousness and the beginning of eternal joy

5. The doctrine of eternal conscious torment skews the picture of God's character and creates relationship based on fear rather than love

Memorable Quotes:

• "Nothing has done more damage to the reputation of God than the teaching of eternally burning hell." - Wes

• "The wages of sin is death, not torment, not torture, not burning in the fires of hell while God watches and the saints live a life of joy in eternity." - TJ

• "Perfect love casts out fear... When we can grasp this thing and we recognize that this topic is rooted in love, then the fear aspect will start to melt away." - TJ

Listener Takeaway: Understanding hell as final destruction rather than eternal torment doesn't diminish the seriousness of judgment but reveals a more beautiful picture of God's character—one that's consistent with His love and justice. This perspective removes fear as a motivator and allows believers to approach God from a place of love and gratitude.

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