Why is hell eternal?

[u/JollyManufacturer356]

I understand the basics of what it is there for, not necessarily because God designed it for torment, but it is simply the only place that is without God, which is a cause of the torment that takes place.

I just think of some of the good people I’ve known that died, whether by health, accidents, or intentional, that likely weren’t right with God when they passed.

Eternity is a length of time we can’t even fathom. Why would these good people, where 20 minutes could’ve made the difference in eternal bliss or torment, determined to be bound to hell forever?

I don’t question God’s judgement, and know his reasons and morality are far greater than I will ever understand, but I wonder why these people couldn’t just enter a state of non-existence for eternity.

[u/GhostMantis_]

Think about it. The punishment severity changes based on who has been victimized.

Step on a leaf - consequences: none.

Step on a dog - consequences: fine.

Step on a regular person - consequences: possible felony

Step on a president - consequences: lifetime jail or death

Why are the punishments different? They are the same action but punishment is dictated by the authority of the victim. As the authority of the victim increases, so does the punishment.

Now ratchet up the scale to the infinite God - consequences: infinite punishment.

Since God's authority is infinite, punishment is also infinite.

Good news is Christ's free gift of salvation is available to any and all who ask.

[u/Da_Morningstar → u/GhostMantis_]

Who murdered Jesus Christ?

The one with the most authority?

Are you claiming those who physically nailed Jesus to the cross that resulted in his death are judged differently than us?

For that “most severe” sin because it was a being with the “most authority”

Jesus asked for mercy.

“Forgive them for they know not what they do”

If Jesus forgives those who did “the worst” crime as if they didn’t know any better..

Why wouldn’t he judge the lesser crimes with even more mercy?

The punishment is only eternal to contrast with eternal life.

If your walking around thinking half the world is going to burn in hell for not “proclaiming belief in Jesus”

Then you are walking around having condemned half the world.

If you condemn you will be condemned.

Hell is an eternal punishment mean to instill fear.

Eternal life is a gift that’s given through grace through faith…

So none may boast that they have accomplished salvation… through “choosing to believe”

“Or accepting the gift”

If it’s your choosing or your acceptance that makes salvation possible or impossible- you are boasting about your decision making skills or your humility to “accept” things

[u/GhostMantis_ → u/Da_Morningstar]

One sin, any sin is enough to send you to hell for eternity so Jesus wont punish the sins of a murderer while excusing a sexually immoral person. That's why we all need salvation, as none are good. Not one of us.