Hell is not a popular subject. It seems that few people want to talk about it and some don't want to believe in it at all. A recent survey done by the Pew Forum on Religion and the Public Life indicates that only about six in ten Americans (59%) believe there is a hell, as opposed to 74% how believe in heaven. The number of those who believe in a physical heaven and hell has been slipping in recent years. I see it as part of a trend brought about by the opinion that a loving God would not condemn anyone to eternal damnation. That as opinion espoused by Rob Bell in his book Love Wins. It's also a part of the belief system of many millennials. Another popular belief, a view also held by many under the age of thirty, is that there are multiple paths that lead to the same God.
I don't pretend to understand how God works, nor can I fully comprehend the concept of heaven and hell. I can only tell you what I know and believe through the Bible. Both heaven and hell exists and one or the other will be an eternal reality for all people. Need proof: Check out Luke 11:19-31 and Matthew 21:33-45. Need further evidence that their is a battle between the two kingdoms, read the book of Revelations, just remember the victorious team is always wearing white. When it comes to the way to salvation, again I can point to the scripture. Jesus makes it clear in John 14:6-7 and it's affirmed by Paul in Romans 5, especially verses 18&19.
These are not popular opinions in our current diverse social climate where we are taught to practice tolerance. While we need to be loving and accepting toward those who hold to different faith and belief systems, we should never stray from our beliefs and principles. This is part of our heritage of faith and it must be passed on to the next generation. We shouldn't be focusing on the negative outcome, but on the glory that is eternal life, and how great it will be to have everyone we know and love there with us.
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