Understanding the Teachings and Nature of Jesus and God

Often, people find the teachings and nature of Jesus and God perplexing, especially when the idea of eternal torture in Hell seems to contradict the message of love and peace. This article aims to clarify these concepts, focusing on the teachings of Jesus, the role of civil government, and the nature of God's love and justice.

Why Does Jesus Tell Us to Love Our Enemies and Make Peace?

One of the central teachings of Jesus is the command to “love your enemies and make peace with them” (Matthew 5:44). This seems to run counter to the belief that Jesus tortures His enemies in Hell for eternity. However, these teachings are rooted in a deeper understanding of God's nature and the purpose of His creation.

The Nature of God’s Love and Wrath

Jesus did indeed come to teach against personal vengeance, as this was also emphasized in the Old Testament. Jesus lived a life of perfect righteousness (Hebrews 4:15–16) to serve as a living sacrifice for our sins (Romans 13:1–4).

Moreover, God’s wrath is not the same as human wrath. While human anger is often fickle and unstable, God’s wrath is always just and righteous (James 1:19–20). God’s Wrath is a response to sin, a separation from His presence in Hell, which is the complete absence of His light.

Divine Judgement and the Role of Civil Government

God provided a proper instrument of vengeance through civil government (Deuteronomy 1:13–17), which operates within the bounds of justice. This means that while individuals can seek justice through the legal system, the ultimate responsibility for dealing with sin lies with God.

The In-Dwelling of the Holy Spirit

The Lord God is absolute in His holiness, righteousness, and justice. This is why He must separate those who are unrepentant from His presence in heaven. There is no intermediate place in eternity—only heaven and hell (Matthew 25:46).

However, God has given humanity a chance to repent and be transformed by the dwelling of His Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit transforms people into new creations who no longer desire rebellion, but instead seek to be with God (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Through substitutionary atonement, God provided a way for sinners to be saved. Jesus came into the world as the sin atoning Savior (1 John 2:2), making it possible for those who believe in Him to have their sins forgiven and to be transformed through the Holy Spirit.

Conclusion

In essence, the belief that Jesus will judge and torture those in Hell aligns with the overarching themes of God's just and righteous nature. While the interpretation and application of these teachings can vary, understanding them within the context of both the New and Old Testaments provides clarity on God’s love, justice, and the path to transformation.

Remember, we are not God. Let God be God in His judgment and justice. Our role is to follow His commandments and seek the Holy Spirit's transformation.