“Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.” – Acts 20:21
How many times I have heard professors declare that Hell is the reason that men must repent is more than can be numbered. Though Jesus talked more of Hell (Sheol-Hades), 13 times in the New Testament than He did of Heaven. Yet, they continue in parroting what is unscriptural.
“[where THEIR WORM DOES NOT DIE, AND THE FIRE IS NOT PUT OUT.]”-Mark 9:44
It would be instructive to one’s soul to know that Hell is not the reason one repents. It is the consequence of those who remain in their sins in an unrepentant state.
“I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins.” -John 8:24
“For the wages of sin is death.” – Romans 6:23
No, the message is to repent for the kingdom of Heaven is at hand (Matthew 3:2), not Hell.
Repent for what, you might ask? One must repent for transgressing God’s moral Law (Exodus 20). Sin is the transgression of God’s Law (1 John 3:4).
Furthermore, we are to fear the Lord, not Hell.
“But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.” – Luke 12:5
Note: A good question to ask oneself is, if the Law of God is not preached in giving men the knowledge of their sin (Psalm 19:7), then what drives them to repent and receive the Savior from sin (Matthew 1:21)? Read Galatians 3:24.
No, if the Law is not preached (Psalm 19:7) and men do not repent for transgressing God’s Law, and putting their faith in Christ, they will then end up in Hell.
