The Peril of the Parable of the Net

Scripture: Matthew 13:50

and will throw them into the furnace of fire; in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

 

Insights:  Today’s verse describes the peril of those who are not born again.  It is a horrifying and fearful verse.  In our finite minds we cannot conceive of eternal damnation. It had to be our Lord who said this truth or we never would have been able to accept it.  Jesus spoke more on hell than any other topic.  Here is a sampling of some locations in which we find Jesus speaking on hell:

Matthew 5:22

Matthew 5:29-30

Matthew 7:27

Matthew 8:12

Matthew 11:20

Matthew 12:36

Matthew 18:9

Matthew 21:43

Mathew chapters 23, 24, 25

Mark chapter 9

Luke chapter 6, 12 and 16 

Now if you were to evaluate what should be the emphasis of preaching, based on the example of Christ, it should be preaching on hell. Our generation doesn't do that.  Joel Osteen, for example, has explicitly stated he will not talk about hell because people have enough problems already.  Osteen’s message is a false gospel.  Let me give you four truths about hell wrapped up in one sentence.  Hell is a place of unrelieved torment for body and soul in varying degrees endlessly.  I am using the word hell to describe the lake of fire judgment found at the Great White Throne.  Hell is actually cast into the lake of fire which is the second death.  There is a distinction, but for all practical purposes the torment is the same in both.  Often times the only way of relief for some that go through trials and pain and suffering and disease here on this side of eternity is the knowledge that with their passing this pain will end.  But those in hell will experience no relief, ever.  You can imagine the resultant insanity that will come.  How do you avoid hell?  You avoid hell only by receiving Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior.  If you don't appropriate the kingdom personally, then you will spend eternity in hell. 

Questions:

1. Do you understand that if you are not born again this peril is your eternal end?
2. Will you resist the saving grace of the Lord God even another minute?

Prayer: Father, thank You for Your amazing grace.  I pray You draw all men to the saving relationship found in Your Son, Jesus.  Amen.