For follow-up discussion and general commentary on the topic. Comments are sorted chronologically.
Tim Maas
For those who like literature, I recommend the series of sermons on Hell delivered by one of the Catholic priests to the schoolboys in James Joyce's A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man (a work of fiction, but based on Joyce's own upbringing and education as a Catholic in Ireland).
The sermons are not delivered in "hellfire preaching" style, but (to me, when I first encountered the book at age 15) the fact that the priest discussed the subject academically and without histrionics made his portrayal of Hell even more convincing.
luanne hastings
Heaven is real and hell is hot ! Trust Jesus as your Savior, the only way to Eternal life in Heaven and the only way to escape Eternal Hell.
James M
Greg, thank you for a very inspiring and informative article. It’s obvious that you have done in-depth research.
I grew up being ’sent’ to a church that preached fire and brimstone. I lived in constant fear for many years, even though Jesus said “do not fear.” As a result of being preached to about hell, I have had to (and still do) get counseling for mental and emotional trauma.
I truly believe that this is the reason why the younger generation refuse to attend church, and I don’t blame them.
After all these many years of attending different churches and denominations, I have come to the conclusion that I don’t need the church. My faith is in Jesus and not man!
Praise Jesus!!
—James M