If you’re wondering if the orthodox church believes in hell, read this article. It will explain why it opposes a literal Purgatory and why Hell’s punishments are vindictive. It will also explain why God is not required to judge Man’s merit or lack thereof, making Hell and Heaven equally undeserved. But before you start worrying, read on for some of the most popular arguments against Hell.
Table of Contents
orthodox church believes in hell
Orthodox Christians believe that God is everywhere and fills all things. In other words, God is not far away and will never leave. It is this love of God that will either deify an individual, or burn him or her spiritually. Despite the polarizing views about hell and heaven, most Orthodox Christians agree that God will resurrect all people from all times. In addition, there appear to be two interim places, Hades and Paradise, that share some characteristics of heaven and hell. They are both believed to exist until the Final Judgment.
orthodox church opposes a literal Purgatory
The orthodox church opposes a literal interpretation of Purgatory. The church holds that man is not transformed into a deity, but rather becomes one with God in mystical union. Eastern religions teach that man becomes absorbed by God. However, Orthodox mystical theology holds that man retains his full personal integrity. Moreover, even though a deified man is merged with God, he remains a separate being.
Hell’s punishments are vindictive
The concept of eternal punishment in hell is widely held by Christians, but is it right? There are arguments for and against it, ranging from a temporary punishment to annihilation. However, neither of these options seems fair, nor do they fit with the nature of mortal sin. Ultimately, this question of sanctity is a matter of faith and morality, and it is an important one.
Man’s merit (or lack of it) does not deserve Heaven or Hell
Augustine attempted to reconcile this conflict in his essay On Merit and Forgiveness of Sins, chapter 21. The views of many retributivists respond to Augustine’s argument, claiming that eternal separation from God implies permanent loss of every source of happiness. Augustine’s view, however, remains unpopular today. Let us consider some of its implications.
Conditional immortality
While conditional immortality may be the more modern theory, it has long been believed that the Bible forbids this doctrine. It is, however, a popular doctrine. In contrast, conditionalists argue that Isaiah 66:24 supports their position. In this passage, God speaks of “unquenchable fire” and “unstoppable scavengers.” These two biblical images of the end of the world are not at all consistent.
Man’s unrepentant will
As a Christian, I am concerned about man’s unrepentant will in hell. Ultimately, people will know they have made the wrong choices, and once in hell, they will want to repent and do what they can to avoid eternal suffering. But will they repent? If so, what will happen to their souls when they are in hell? Is there anything that can be done about this?
God’s wrath
Orthodox Christians believe in the existence of God’s wrath, but disagree with the role of the wrath of God in the universe. The Bible speaks of God’s wrath and divine punishment, but it is unclear what this wrath actually is. It is a concept that is missing from Scripture, but has an important place in Orthodoxy.
