I agree with Scott Higgins the doctrine of hell has profound implications for us.
see http://scottjhiggins.com/?p=826
First, it throws the focus of the future on redemption rather than suffering....
I agree with John Wenham when he says that
“Unending torment speaks to me of sadism, not justice. It is a doctrine I do not know how to preach without neglecting the loveliness and glory of God…I believe that endless torment is a hideous and unscriptural doctrine which has been a terrible burden on the mind of the church for many centuries and a terrible blot on her presentation of the gospel.”
The future will not be a torture chamber to which the bulk of humankind are consigned by their Creator. No, we proclaim a God who invites people to a glorious future without having to threaten them with an eternity of unspeakable suffering. And on this basis judgement can actually make sense to people – a renewed world means people who are reconciled to God and to each other. If you are willing to embrace this you will be welcomed into the new world; if not you forfeit the opportunity to participate.
You may like to read the rest or explore more about annihilationism at the afterlife.co.nz website.
