Religion & Ethics: Content from Across the ABC




Date/Time 28 Dec 2014 12:43:19pm
"Given that the concept of hell is introduced in the new testament, I think the claim 'jesus never taught hatred' is very nearly as false as it's possible to be."

The concept of 'hell' is a lot older than the New Testament writings. The Greek word for Hell is Gehenna which is derived from the Hebrew word "Hinnon", which would come to describe the punishment place for sinners. There is a reference to hell in Deuteronomy 32:22 "For a fire has been kindled by my wrath, one that burns to the realms of death below." Deuteronomy was written by Moses about 1440-1400 BC, well before the time when Jesus came to earth and when the New Testament was written.

Hell has nothing to do with hatred, it is a consequence of living in a fallen world. Everyone will face judgement one day for their actions. But what many people forget, is that there is forgiveness and grace through Jesus Christ.