What happens after we die? In this episode, we dive deep into one of the most profound theological explorations—Heaven and Hell. Drawing from Scripture, historical context, and diverse theological perspectives, this lesson examines the nature, location, and duration of both eternal destinations. Listeners are taken on a journey through ancient terms like Sheol, Hades, and Gehenna, and are challenged to reflect on differing interpretations of hell—from the traditional view of eternal torment, to terminal punishment, and the annihilationist position. Rodriguez breaks down what it means for the soul to be immortal, what the Bible says about God’s justice, and how these beliefs shape our understanding of divine mercy. But it’s not all fire and brimstone. This episode also paints a vivid, hope-filled picture of heaven—a radiant New Jerusalem, a place of restoration, joy, and eternal communion with God. With scriptural support from Revelation, Thessalonians, and the Gospels, listeners are reminded of the promise of resurrection, the return of Christ, and the ultimate transformation awaiting believers. Whether you’re wrestling with eschatological questions or looking to strengthen your biblical foundation, this episode offers clarity, conviction, and comfort.
Heaven & Hell - Eschatology Week 04
Big Ideas:
I. Definitions and Origins of Heaven and Hell
A. Sheol / Hades
Hebrew (Sheol) and Greek (Hades) terms for the realm of the dead.
Described as the invisible world of departed souls.
Differentiation:
Wicked go to “hell”
Righteous go to “paradise”
Referenced by Jesus in the parable of the Rich Man & Lazarus (Luke 16) and on the cross (Luke 23:43).
B. Gehenna
A physical valley near Jerusalem, later symbolized eternal destruction.
Used by Jesus to describe hell in the Gospels.
Constant fire and refuse—imagery of judgment and punishment.
C. Pyros (Greek for fire)
Associated with the “lake of fire” in Revelation 20:14–15.
II. Views on the Duration and Intensity of Hell
A. Traditional View
Eternal, conscious punishment for the wicked.
B. Terminal View
Hell is finite; time in torment could range from moments to millennia.
C. Annihilationist View
No prolonged suffering; souls are destroyed instantly.
D. Biblical and Philosophical Considerations
God’s immortality vs. the soul’s conditional immortality.
Eternal life is a gift, not inherently possessed (1 Tim. 6:15–16; John 3:16).
III. Scriptural Interpretations and Conflicting Verses
Matthew 25:46: “eternal punishment” vs. “eternal life”
Emphasis on “destruction,” “consumed,” and “perish” as biblical terms.
IV. Biblical Imagery and Descriptions of Hell
Psalms and Hebrews describe God’s enemies as consumed by fire.
Jesus warns of the destruction of body and soul (Matt. 10:28).
Emphasis on God’s justice and the consequences of unrepentance.
V. Heaven: Its Nature and Location
A. Heaven is “Above”
Cited verses: John 3:31, John 8:23, Acts 7:55–56, Col. 3:1–3.
Heaven is where Christ is seated with God.
B. Heaven as a City: The New Jerusalem
Described in detail in Revelation 21–22:
Precious stones, pearly gates, streets of gold.
No more pain, death, or sorrow.
God dwells with His people.
VI. The Second Coming and the Resurrection
A. Jesus Returns in the Clouds
1 Thessalonians 4:16–17: The dead in Christ will rise, believers will meet Him in the air.
B. Transformation of Believers
Glorified bodies (Phil. 3:20–21; 1 Cor. 15:51–54).
C. Final Judgment
2 Corinthians 5:10: Each will be judged for deeds in the body.
VII. Eternal Destiny and Worship
Believers will see God’s face (Rev. 22:4).
A great worship scene in heaven (Rev. 15:2–3).
Earth and creation will be destroyed and renewed (2 Peter 3:10–13).
VIII. Entrance into Heaven
Access through the blood of Christ (Rev. 22:14).
A call to faithfulness, purity, and hope in eternal life.