Sadly, some still choose hell

Matters of Faith

By Dr. Bascom Ratliff

Pastor: Parker/Beagle/Fontana United Methodist Churches

Scripture (NRSV):  Matthew 25: 31-46 (Jesus condemns those who do not care for others)

Matthew chapter 25 is one of my favorite Bible passages. Jesus clearly tells us that when we serve others we serve him. He specifically tells us that to truly serve and follow him, we should give food to the hungry, water to the thirsty and clothing to the naked. We also should visit those who are institutionalized or homebound. In doing so, we honor Christ. According to Jesus, our failure to help others in need is a surefire, one-way ticket to hell.

I do not believe that anyone, except in very rare cases, actually chooses hell. It is our lifestyle and consequences of a life lived apart from God that leads to hell. And, although we do not choose hell, those who go there deserve to be there. If we believe in a fair and just God (and God is always fair and just) the people in hell are there because of their failure to help others and to do God’s will.

When I think of hell, I have images of a vast wasteland that has been stripped of all life and beauty by the ravages of fire. It is a great void in a barren wasteland that has no God, no love, and no relationships. It’s an eternity of never feeling loved or cared for. It’s an eternity of never belonging and having no hope. It is quite simply a total and complete separation from God and the loss of everything that has ever given us joy.

That said, I do not believe that God created hell for humanity. God does not want to punish us or reject us. God does not want us to suffer or live in pain. God does not want a separation or divorce. God wants to be in a loving and caring relationship with each and every one of us. He wants only the best for us. It’s only when we reject a loving relationship with God that hell comes into play. Its important to remember that God sent Jesus as a sacrifice for our sins. Accepting Jesus as our Savior and Shepherd, means that we choose life and service rather than separation and desolation.

God has given us free will and the power to choose. We can choose to follow the risen Christ and do good for others. We can help the needy. Or, we can ignore God’s direction. We can hedge your bets and take for granted the love and sacrifice of Christ without serving others or accepting God’s grace. We can choose whom we will follow. 

My challenge to you, my faithful readers, is to choose a loving and committed relationship with God through the sacrifice and direction of Jesus Christ. We can actively accept God’s mercy and forgiveness. We can accept God’s grace. God has provided us with a number of wonderful gifts that will last a lifetime and an eternity. The greatest gift, I believe, is a loving relationship with our Creator and our Savior. I invite you to embrace the love of God with the tremendous joy and assurance that a home with God for eternity is assured. Once we accept Christ as our lord and savior, our life with God is confirmed. There is no threat of damnation or hell. Instead, there are bountiful gifts of love, joy, and hope.  

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If you are seeking a church family to join you in your journey with Jesus, I encourage you to consider attending our church services at the Parker, Beagle, and Fontana United Methodist Churches. Our service times and details are listed below. Please know that when you attend, you will be provided an enthusiastic worship service, fellowship and support, and the unfailing love of fellow believers.

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We will have Sunday morning services during the month of June at 10 a.m. at the Beagle United Methodist Church.

We will have Sunday morning services during the month of July at 10 a.m. at the Fontana UMC.

We will have Sunday morning services during the month of August at 10 a.m. at the Parker UMC.

We celebrate communion on the first Sunday of each month.

All are welcome in God’s House.  Come and celebrate the risen Christ.

Dr. Bascom Ratliff  (913-710-5748)

Pastor: Parker/Beagle/Fontana 

United Methodist Churches