It is said so often that people might not stop and think about what that really means. What if this is what transpires?
AN ETERNITY OF TORMENT
There are a few ways of looking at it, but none if them are very good.
One question is how literally to interpret translations in Scripture. A literal translation would involve something like an eternity of fire and brimstone. A non-literal translation would look at it as more emotional suffering and less physical.
Does the Bible literally mean you will spend eternity in fire and brimstone?
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As these posts pertain to looking at things from a Christian (Eastern Orthodox) perspective, the following are some possible characteristics of the "other place":
1. It is not a literal physical place, but it is real.
Many people think of it as down, as in the center of the earth. Orthodoxy teaches it is not a literal, physical place. The Bible is describing what the experience would be like for you in a way you can relate to. If a body goes to heaven or there it is not in a different physical place.
2. There is no more chance to repent.
This is very important. Orthodoxy calls this "What could have been." To spend eternity thinking you could be more "fulfilled" would indeed be torment. Even Adolf Hitler had a final chance to repent and be saved before death. In his case it might only be the part of him that was made in God's image that lives on. God wants all of his creation to be saved.
3. The essence is the absence of the good that is "left over."
This requires some explanation. God can not have unholy things in front of him. This is one reason Jesus atoned for human sin. The "evil" in you becomes nothing and what is left is what you have to work with. However much this might be it is the level of "heaven" or "hell" you experience. According to this the more "good" you did in this life the more rewarding the next life is.
4. There are no relationships.
Without a relationship with your Creator there is not much else. One way of viewing "the other place" is to think of a place where you have NO relationships. Although some people think their "hell" is other people the alternative is also not pleasant. Does that make you think? Solitary confinement is considered cruel punishment on earth, but what would it be like for eternity?
5. It is a result of the things you did while on earth.
People tend to think they are getting away with the easier choices they make in daily life. However, this life is very short in comparison with the next one. The Bible warns humans about this in graphic ways to get your attention.
It is important to remember there is still time to change and repent no matter who you are. God's original intention was to have communion with humans so that is what he wants.
Eternity is a long time to suffer. The choice to not repent has consequences.
It's up to you.
You might also be interested in:
The Orthodox version
The Christian Way and what it means
Author: Albert Wagner
