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Posts Tagged ‘afterlife’

Who The Hell Gets In Heaven – Atheists, Agnostics, Non-Christians?

Posted in christian living, Kingdom of God, Love of God, tagged , , , , , , , , on August 10, 2026|

by Mike Edwards

Understandings and mental views of God shape your belief in God and your relationship with God. God surely delights more in one seeking to know God than the ninety-nine, offended by one’s interpretation of the Bible, who already know their Creator (Lk. 15:3-7). Biblical interpretations must be plausible based on what a loving God should be like.

If you read my Post weekly, you will probably notice I have beat this subject to death. This post is longer than most my Posts, so please hang in there. I want to touch on many themes related to answering this question. I want to combine three last Posts into one here. I want to address who gets into heaven, contrary to claims made by Christians. Do agnostics, atheists, and non-Christians get into heaven? Polls suggest many believe there is an afterlife after death, or at least they hope so. Christians open suggest we can know all there is about the afterlife by reading the Bible. That is suspect because biblical writers were only speculating – God didn’t speak to them directly. Besides, we have to interpret their views since there isn’t universal agreement what the Bible says about heaven and hell.

Who is a believer in God’s eyes? Jesus’ disciples likely believed in a God or what Jesus taught but Jesus only encouraged his disciples and others to follow Him. He didn’t require certain beliefs. I follow what I believe are Jesus’ teachings. Church people often evangelize by focusing on how one can get in heaven/inherit eternal life. Is that really the best approach to those interested to discuss spiritual matters.

Hell No!

Does God really demand we bow the knee or burn in Hell? 

There are good reasons to not agree a literal Hell is a reality in the Bible. It seems odd Jesus or Paul who wrote much of the NT didn’t mention Hell at all. See here.  Words translated into the English word Hell are likely a metaphor to discourage a loveless life. Terrorists demand belief in their God or they don’t even wait to kill you in the afterlife. Is the God of the Bible really similar, only waiting to kill in the afterlife. The God I believe in isn’t a terroristic God here on earth or in the afterlife. A belief in a literal Hell is likely only to come out of one’s interpretation of a Book they believe is inspired by God accurately proclaiming what God is like, and not one’s imagination of a loving God. My God gave me a brain to imagine what a loving God does to those who don’t believe while living a short time here on earth.  See:   Hell No! Hell Is a Myth

The Main Biblical Message May Not Be What You Think

Most who read this blog want to know what the Bible says about salvation and entering heaven which we will discuss briefly below. I suspect many reject Christian claims because of the beliefs said to be true of God. Hell is likely a message Christians get wrong. I am convinced a literal Hell is a biblical myth.  See here.  Also, we get wrong that God condemns gays according to the Bible. Another myth. See here. See   God Loves Gays

But the biggest myth may be that God’s main message according to the Bible is that salvation is about going to Heaven or Hell rather than how to live life here on earth. Hard to believe Hell is the main message if Hell is a myth. See here:  What Really Is The Gospel According To The Bible?

Jesus said: “I am the way, the truth, and the life, no one comes to the Father except through me” (Jn 14:6). Did Jesus really mean God only saves those who accept Jesus? Keep in mind the majority of people born into this world have never heard of Jesus or had a Bible. Jesus wasn’t born until the first century. The Bible as we know it today didn’t exist until the fourth century. John 14:6 could easily be interpreted to mean Jesus’ way of life is the best path toward God. The path to God is through love. (See God After Deconstruction, Oord/Fuller Chapter 9). We Christians need to be less condemning and more open to God’s love and message to people of all religions. Your religion doesn’t matter to God. Your religion likely depends on the nation or family born into. See What religion goes to heaven

Jesus was asked by a religious leader how to have eternal life. (Lk.10:25-37). I doubt the leader had in mind how to get into Heaven away from this Earth. Jesus elsewhere defined eternal life as beginning in the here and now (Jn 17:3), not what awaited in the afterlife. Jesus in this passage simply said to the leader to love God and your neighbor. “Eternal” appears to be on the quality not quantity in life. Jesus spoke of a life worth living here on earth by living a loving life empowered by God. Whether one chooses belief in God and possible empowerment is an individual faith choice. Jesus’ salvation was about living a meaningful life here on earth with God’s help. The Bible/Jesus/God’s message isn’t dropping to your knees to avoid Hell to go to Heaven after death, but start loving now – a path toward great relationships. See: What Is Main Message About Bible/Jesus That Christians Get Wrong?

Besides, the Bible may claim all can enter heaven anyway regardless of beliefs?

The main message can’t be about God saving us from Hell. There is some biblical evidence, that God is inclusive in the afterlife. In fact, God may welcome all and will attempt to convince them and live with God forever. It is doubtful the main message is one has to believe in Jesus or the Bible. As mentioned, the majority of people born in this world didn’t have access to a Bible or know of Jesus. See:  All Will End Up In Heaven According To The Bible

Being a universalist can be biblical: I am a hopeful universalist because God respects one’s freedom to choose their destiny. It is just hard for me to believe anyone would reject God seeing and knowing what God is really like and not wanting to live forever with loved ones. I guess there are the Hitlers out there!

There are rational reasons for our friends to not believe in God?

Let’s be honest. We can’t prove God exist. Why condemn those who struggle to accept if there is a God (agnostic or atheist). Another fair argument about whether God really exist is why then is God so hidden. The idea that if an all-loving God truly exists and wants to have a personal relationship with those open to such a relationship – why doesn’t God make their presence obvious. Such signs could convince many, removing distress and uncertainty. On the other hand, there may be reasonable reasons God is hidden here on earth. See:  If God Is Real, Why Then Is God So Hidden?

What the world needs more is love, not more people professing right beliefs or that God is real if not so inclined. God may pursue them in a relationship if one interested. Don’t know! Many have rational reasons to not believe in God. This doesn’t mean God rejects them. The path of love is open to all even atheists and agonists and non-Christians. See: What Does God Think About Believers Trying To Convert Others?

There is one main belief that matters according to all religions

People reject God based on claims about hell, gays and other supposed God-endorsed beliefs. Who blames them? It is important to know what God is really like and that God cares about you in the here and now and not about just the afterlife. Most religions share common ground unless a terrorist including Christianity, Judaism, Hinduism, and Buddhism—the Golden rule.  Jesus said when asked what the greatest commandment was:  “Love God and love your neighbor.” [Matthew 22:36-40] Loving God is following God’s ways, surely meaning loving your neighbor as you wish to be loved. If you believe loving others like you want to be love is central in living, you are good with God. See you in Heaven! None of us act on this belief perfectly.

There are reasonable reasons to not believe in God or at least be skeptical. God gets you! If you don’t believe in the Golden Rule, good luck on your death bed regarding relationships. Want to die with few regrets? Want your relationships to suck, don’t follow the golden rule. Few will show up at your funeral. 

Why it Matters

It matters the comfort or lack of comfort you offer others when a loved one dies. No one really knows so why not offer hope. What happens to our loved ones beyond the grave if God was not a part of their life, but they didn’t live like the devil and lived a more moral life than many who claim to trust God? I have summarized reasons why we can hope and give others hope in difficult times that God isn’t a God of chances, depending on where live or family born into: See:

There Is Hope For God’s Grace After Death For our Loves Ones?

Mike Edwards was added as a writer and has been a great addition to the Done with Religion site. Mike provides many interesting views and various ways of looking at things. He is not afraid to ask questions and he keeps an open mind as to teachings of the institutional church. Mike also has his own site where he writes at What God May Really Be Like

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What To Tell A Child About Hell And The Afterlife?

Posted in Bible, christian living, Jesus follower, Love of God, tagged , , , , , , on May 11, 2026|

by Mike Edwards

If a child brings up the topic Hell, I would first ask a child what they have heard Hell is. It is hard to believe a loving God would create a place to torture those who didn’t believe while a short time here on earth. I personally don’t think God lights you on fire and doesn’t let the fire go out. The only reason one may believe in a literal Hell is because it is believed to be claimed to be real in a Book (Bible) that supposedly God inspired (controlled the writers having correct views of God written down). But it turns out the Bible can be interpreted to believe Hell is not a literal place. See here.

What do I tell adults about the afterlife?

First one must decide what they believe happens after one dies. One of the main topics in churches is about aiming for eternal life. There is an alternative view what Jesus said about eternal life that is not often taught. Jesus defined eternal life as beginning in the here and now (Jn 17:3), not what awaited in the afterlife. Jesus was asked by a religious leader how to have eternal life. (Lk.10:25-37). Jesus simply said to love God and your neighbor. Jesus answered as if “Eternal” appears to be on the quality not quantity in life. Jesus often spoke of a life worth living being a loving life empowered by God. Jesus’ salvation was about living a meaningful life here on earth with God’s help. The Bible/Jesus/God’s message isn’t dropping to your knees to avoid Hell to go to Heaven after death, but start loving now – a path toward great relationships. 

Few acknowledge the Bible might even declare all go to heaven

It is suggested by many religious leaders that according to the Bible some go to hell and some go to heaven, though doubtful a literal Hell exist. The problem is the Bible, being literature, requires interpretation. It is possible to interpret the Bible as claiming all eventually go to be with God after death.  See here.

We can’t know definitely about the afterlife. So, let your imagination wonder about a loving God/Creator. I am convinced Heaven is a place everyone goes after death here on earth to be with God if so desired. It’s what God wants. In case you don’t believe that, you tell your kid Santa Claus is real and surely you don’t believe that is true – overweight guy visits every house in the world in one night on a sled pulled by reindeers and goes down every chimney. You tell them they will always be safe flying, but you don’t know for sure their plane won’t crash. Tell kids what you think a loving Creator would plan for their creations. Or what would you do as a loving parent? See What Religion Goes To Heaven

So, why not live like Hell!

We are free to speculate what a loving God might do. Go ahead and live like Hell while here on earth! Careful the regrets you, your family, and friends will feel at the end of your life. God only seeks to influence you to avoid a life full of regrets. We are told the message of the Bible is Jesus coming to give you salvation to save you from Hell so you could enter Heaven. I believe Jesus spoke of loving God not to get into heaven but to receive help in loving others as you love yourself now. I seek influence from God in pursuing a life not full of regrets. Try it! It’s on God to come through for you if you choose to follow. Jesus when leaving this earth spoke of having God’s spirit within us.  If you refuse to love, you may end up a lonely, regretful soul. There is a heavenly or hellish way to live life!

Mike Edwards was added as a writer and has been a great addition to the site. Mike provides many interesting views and various ways of looking at things. He is not afraid to ask questions and he keeps an open mind as to teachings of the institutional church. Mike also has his own site where he writes at What God May Really Be Like

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How Can You Be Happy If Not With Loved Ones In Heaven?

Posted in Acceptance of Others, Bible, christian living, Kingdom of God, Love of God, tagged , , , , , , on February 15, 2026|

by Mike Edwards

Many believe only those who believe/follow God here on earth will make it to heaven in the afterlife. For contrarian views see: What Religion Leads To Heaven If you don’t believe all have a chance to be in heaven regardless of beliefs here on earth, then how can heaven be a happy place if unbelieving loved ones aren’t allowed in heaven.

At least you don’t have to worry about Hell 

One barrier to happiness is a belief held by many that there is a literal hell where God tortures those in the afterlife who don’t believe while here on earth. The only place one may get such an idea about a loving God is a supposed inspired book by God (Bible). The good news is that a literal hell is unlikely biblically speaking. You don’t have to worry about a loved one being kept alive to be tortured. God creating a literal Hell where people are tortured for billions of years for beliefs held a short time here on earth isn’t possible morally or biblically. See here. See here. Humans wouldn’t even create such a place for our enemies. God or humans can’t possibly be happy in heaven if loved ones are tormented after death forever. If God supposedly has such control over happiness, why not use the same power over rebelliousness?

And, all loved ones may go to heaven eventually even according to the Bible? 

Many may reject universalism because they believe the Bible teaches against it. Many who reject universalism often resort to name calling rather than defending their views – referring to those who reject their claims as heretics. What many may not know is there are many biblical scholars who believe the Bible can be interpreted to teach God saves all eventually. See: All Will End Up Heaven According To The Bible!

The main reason to think God doesn’t accept all in heaven when meeting their Creator is because the Bible supposedly says otherwise. Does God’s loving nature allow stopping to forgive? There are consequences in this life and there may be painful reckonings in the life to come, but a loving God can’t stop showing grace. Why would God undergo a complete character lobotomy after we take our last breath here on earth? Is a thief going to enter Paradise but not others with lesser sins because they weren’t next to Jesus hanging on a Cross right before their last breath? God’s grace doesn’t depend on whether one has more opportunities to respond to God than others. The Bible doesn’t rule out decisions after life here on earth. Even imperfect human parents wouldn’t cut off a child who eventually accepts responsibilities for their actions. Universalism is possible or even probably true because there can’t be a deadline or time limit on God’s love. There isn’t on my love for my children. Am I a better lover than God?  We are told to forgive our enemies as many times as necessary but God doesn’t?

Even the Bible doesn’t rule out decisions after death regarding one’s eternal destination

John 5:25 says that the dead will hear the voice of God and those who hear will live. Verse 29 says those who have done evil will be condemned but we do not know whether repentance will take place. Romans 14:11-12 says: “It is written: As surely as I live, says the Lord, “every knee will bow before me; every tongue will confess to God.” So then, we will all give an account of ourselves to God.” Why couldn’t some make a decision at Judgment? I Peter 3:18-20 speaks of Jesus preaching to those in Noah’s day who were disobedient. Preaching is normally for the opportunity to respond.  I Peter 4:6 goes on to say that the dead can live according to God’s spirit. Eternal decisions after death doesn’t diminish the blessings of changing here on earth. A perfect, merciful God can best decide when enough chances are given.

A loving God can’t be a God of chance!

A loving God wouldn’t only let Christians into heaven when the majority of people born into this world died without knowledge of Jesus the Christ. Besides, one’s religion or rebellion against a certain religion is often based on the family born into whether it is Christian, Muslim, Buddhist, etc. No human or spiritual parent brings children into the world requiring that one’s eternal destination is based on circumstances out of one’s control.

What about justice though?

The Bible talks about everyone, whether having faith here on earth or not, will be judged (2 Cor 5:10; Rom 14:12). Punishment doesn’t bring back a victim’s robbed memories of the future due to the murder of a loved one. Justice can be understanding your victim’s pain and accepting the harmfulness of your actions. After death God may seek for all to face every action of betrayal and how it felt to their victims. The cleansing and educative effect may take longer for some than others. Humans, like God may forgive their enemies if they truly regret their actions and seek forgiveness. Justice from a fair, merciful God is possible despite people being given a second chance after death.

Happiness in Heaven possible even if loved one not there

I supposed it is possible some may reject God and Heaven when meeting their Creator and chose final death. So, God may not be able to save all. But, if my loved one sees what God is really like meeting and still reject God, I can better except it is their choice than God rejecting them. I can better accept their death than forcing them to be in heaven is fair and I can be content with that decision.

Mike Edwards was added as a writer and has been a great addition to the site. Mike provides many interesting views and various ways of looking at things. He is not afraid to ask questions and he keeps an open mind as to teachings of the institutional church. Mike also has his own site where he writes at What God May Really Be Like

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What Do You Tell A Child About Hell?

Posted in Bible, christian living, Love of God, tagged , , , , , , on February 8, 2026|

by Mike Edwards

Okay. My kids are nearing their 40s. What I wish I had said and now have a chance with my grandchildren.

I linked below my last two Posts written about hell.

12 Reasons To Believe Hell Is A Myth!

Why Hell Can’t Be True!

And a Site with several articles about Heaven:

What Religion Goes To Heaven

No one would think a loving God or caring parent would create a place to torture those who didn’t believe while a short time here on earth. Such pain serves no purpose. Most humans wouldn’t even treat their enemies that way. The only reason one may believe in Hell is because it is believed to be claimed to be real in a Book (Bible) that supposedly God inspired (controlled the writers having correct views of God written down). But it turns out the Bible can be interpreted to not believe Hell is a literal place. See articles above.

What I tell a young child about heaven and hell when they bring it up.

Heaven is a place everyone goes after death here on earth to be with God. See link above about Heaven. It case you don’t believe that, you tell your kid Santa Claus is real and surely you don’t believe that is true – overweight guy visits every house in the world in one night on a sled pulled by reindeers and goes down every chimney. You tell them they will always be safe flying, but you don’t know for sure their plane won’t crash.

I may ask a child what they have heard Hell is. I would tell a child Hell is not a literal place. It is sometimes mentioned in the Bible as a place people don’t believe in God’s or don’t want God’s influence- not treating others kindly or like you want to be treated. I tell adults Hell is a metaphor (There is a heavenly or hellish way to live life).

Parents – God’s influence in life is similar to the influence you hope to have in your kid’s life.

Mike Edwards was added as a writer and has been a great addition to the site. Mike provides many interesting views and various ways of looking at things. He is not afraid to ask questions and he keeps an open mind as to teachings of the institutional church. Mike also has his own site where he writes at What God May Really Be Like

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Which Religion Leads To Heaven?

Posted in Bible, christian living, Love of God, religion, tagged , , , , , , on September 1, 2025|

by Mike Edwards

We don’t know what happens after life here on earth. No one can claim the Bible, subject to fallible interpretation, has the definitive answer. We are free to speculate what a loving God might do.  There are certain beliefs Christians often declare that understandably are stumbling blocks for others wanting a relationship with God. We are told God is a hellish, sadistic torturer according to beliefs while here on earth, but even humans wouldn’t create Hell for their worse enemies. Hell is a myth. See here.  Another misbelief is that God condemns gays. I doubt it. See here. Another stumbling block is the claim that only Christians go to heaven because of certain beliefs.

Whatever you believe, I hope that we all can love one another despite our differences. Love should not require us to agree on everything

What did Jesus really say?

Jesus said: “I am the way, the truth, and the life, no one comes to the Father except through me” (Jn 14:6). Did Jesus really mean God only saves those who accept Jesus? Keep in mind the majority of people born into this world have never heard of Jesus or had a Bible. This verse could easily be interpreted to mean Jesus’ way of life is the best path toward God. The path to God is through love. (See God After Deconstruction, Oord/Fuller Chapter 9). We Christians need to be less condemning and more open to God’s love and message to people of all religions.

What beliefs is required to get into Heaven?

Even Christians don’t all agree necessary beliefs for God to let you enter heaven after death. Christianity has thousands of denominations who have different beliefs. Interpretation of the Bible is not an infallible/exact science. Many agree to understand Jesus is to understand God. Jesus in his interactions didn’t seem to demand a certain prayer to repeat for salvation. Jesus in choosing disciples simply asked to follow him – Jesus’ path to love. The disciples didn’t believe many of Jesus’ claims until after his resurrection. If you saw someone come back from the dead, you might believe too.

Jesus came to advise how to start living here on earth, not what awaited in the afterlife, when asked how to have eternal life. He simply said to love God and your neighbor (Lk10:25-37). Jesus understood loving God leads to loving your neighbor. One, if so inclined, can ask for God’s help in living a meaningful life here on earth. See here for more of Jesus’ interactions with others. So, many agree on actions encouraged for a godly life. Please tell me you don’t believe killing infidels in this life, opposing freedom of beliefs, is godly. Neither did Jesus in the afterlife.

Don’t I have to least believe in God and Jesus’ resurrection?

God isn’t a God of chance! The majority of people born into this world never had a Bible? The truth is the majority of people accept or rebel against a certain religion based on the family born into whether it be Christian, Muslim, Buddhist, etc. A child who was sexually abuse by their father may struggle to accept a God who is most often betrayed as our Father in Heaven. Do you really think a loving God is going to judge all based on their beliefs during a short time here on earth influenced by so many random factors?

I am not sure if Jesus was God in human form or God’s representative here on earth. Jesus did seem to have a lot in common what seems true about a loving God. I am convinced Jesus’ resurrection isn’t legend and has solid historical verification, but others may not. Jesus told followers He was coming back from the dead and they didn’t believe Him despite witnessing Jesus’ miracles beforehand. They only believed after seeing Jesus resurrected with their own eyes. I would like to think more of us if we witness a man or woman coming back from the grave, after killed on a cross, would believe in that person’s message. Don’t let doubts prevent taking steps toward God.

Isn’t God love and a  perfect parent’s love the same?

Your religion doesn’t matter here on earth. I am convinced those who enter heaven meet with God and a decision is made together. Want to live with God’s ways? You probably will be welcomed by God. God’s love surely is the same as supreme parents. Love gets excited when we do well and make a difference in the lives of others. God’s love anticipates, hopes for my success, believes in me, pulls for me even when failing, because I do the same for my children. God even loves doubters. Parents bring children into the world hoping their children freely reciprocate their love for authentic relationships. My kid can reject me all they want. When they express regret or beliefs in my ways whenever, I am all ears. Why would God’s love be any different?

Want to go to heaven. Start living now according to God’s ways. You will likely have fewer regrets in life after leaving this earth. Or take a chance your character won’t form here on earth and you do the unthinkable – when you meet God in the afterlife – you reject God’s ways.

There are good and bad religions

I am convinced Jesus of all people and prophets was the most like the true God. Decide from those who declare to be God’s messenger who is the most like a loving God. It should be investigated if Mohammed married a 6-year old and had intercourse when the child was 9. If true I am not following Mohammed. Jesus said “If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea” (Mt 18:6). Jesus’ message rings true to me of a prophet to follow. I reject any prophet or God who rejects freedom of beliefs while here on earth or be killed. God doesn’t even do that in the afterlife aka hell.

How can we proceed without required beliefs? 

Billions in the past have believed in the possibility of a Creator. They couldn’t all be lunatics. Do you want to be more “in” with God? I am not sure there is anything to lose in beginning a journey of faith if the desire is to live life with fewer regrets. Personally, the biggest reason for being a God-follower is the inspiration and encouragement I sense in striving to be a better human being. Give God’s influence in your life a chance if so inclined. Moral values aren’t just found in a supposed inspired Book. It is only intuitive that a Creator loves the ways their creations ought to love one another. We all seem to know the question we ought to ask ourselves – am I loving others perfectly? Or am I loving others like I want to be loved.

See link below for further Posts concerning the afterlife and who is going to heaven

Which Religion Leads To Heaven

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Mike Edwards was added as a writer and has been a great addition to the site. Mike provides many interesting views and various ways of looking at things. He is not afraid to ask questions and he keeps an open mind as to teachings of the institutional church. Mike also has his own site where he writes at What God May Really Be Like 

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Hell No! Hell Is A Myth!

Posted in Bible, christian living, Love of God, religion, tagged , , , , on August 19, 2025|

by Mike Edwards

I can’t prove Hell or Heaven is real. But, why would we think a loving God would create a place to torture forever those who held certain beliefs while here on earth a short period of time. The only place one might get such an idea that God – lights you on fire and doesn’t let the fire go out – is because many believe a supposed inspired Book by God says so. Of course ancient literature is subject to interpretation. I am convinced Hell isn’t real according to the Bible! A torturous, loving God is an oxymoron.

See links below about Hell, Heaven, and the Afterlife that I have written over the decades. Articles first listed are the most recent articles written. What kind of relationship comes forth when threatened with endless torture if you don’t obey? Maybe God gives second chances, even after death!

Hell No!. Hell Is A Myth!

Mike Edwards was added as a writer and has been a great addition to the site. Mike provides many interesting views and various ways of looking at things. He is not afraid to ask questions and he keeps an open mind as to teachings of the institutional church. Mike also has his own site where he writes at What God May Really Be Like 

Read Full Post »

Why Is It Important To Know Hell Is A Myth?

Posted in Bible, christian living, Love of God, tagged , , , , , , on March 2, 2025|

By Mike Edwards

I write a good bit about the topic of Hell to defend biblical and moral reasons to reject. See here.  See here. Polls in the past few years suggest about 60% of Americans believe in Hell as a place many go after their death. I would suggest a large percentage who believe in Hell think it may be a literal place of everlasting torture/suffering. That is a lot of people, when including their relationships, where such views negatively influence others about God’s character. Is God a sadistic torturer? I think it is important to put this view of Hell to bed for many reasons.

Hell gives people a wrong impression of God, thus turning people away 

A loving God couldn’t possibly torture anyone forever since such pain serves no lasting purpose. Humans wouldn’t even create such a place for their worst enemies. Hitler was condemned for torturing millions of Jews; God is said to torture billions unending. The only reason to think a loving God would create such as a place as Hell would be if we believed a Book taught such a horrific thing. It doesn’t. (See links above) If we humans really believed Hell made moral sense, we would never cease from warning our friends to repent to escape Hell.  A moral God can’t be a hellish, sadistic, torturer. 

Hell prevents a genuine relationship with God   

What kind of relationship comes forth when threatened with endless torture if you don’t obey. Are you close to your parents because of fear or respect. Fear doesn’t lead to change but trying to avoid getting caught. God isn’t saving you from Hell, but hoping to help you become more the person you desire to be while here on life. Fear may work temporarily in the religion or political arena, but it can’t last. Jesus came to encourage living a life worth living – not to get you out of Hell. The advantage of a relationship with a loving God is that there is a voice outside imperfect beings – a God who inspires, forgives, and encourages. Genuine changes result when knowing you are deeply loved by a parent or God empowering you to reflect such love to others.

Hell encourages a hidden agenda in our relationships 

Conversations with God-followers often feels like them trying to change your beliefs. We all hate when our partner doesn’t listen and just wants to give advice. Many avoid spiritual discussions because they can smell a hidden agenda a mile away. It’s wrong to engage in friendships with others for the purpose of converting them to believe as you do, without advising upfront your agenda. I was taught God’s good news was saving people from Hell so they could get into Heaven. I was wrong according to Jesus. See here.  All I know to do is to focus on living where actions speak louder than words in case others want to pursue convos about God. God may truly exist! 

Hell can impact one’s view of justice in God’s name 

Many interpret the Quran or the Bible advocating killing Jews or condemning gays respectively, because Allah or God supposedly approves such actions. Extremists don’t acknowledge their interpretation could be wrong or that the writers possibly didn’t understand God perfectly.  God supposedly ordered Israel to commit hundreds of atrocities in the OT – “… put to death men and women, children and infants, cattle and sheep, camels and donkeys.” (I Sam. 15:3) God’s possible justification of violence can lead to imitation of violent solutions such as capital punishment, blowing up abortion clinics, or unnecessary wars in the name of God.  

Hell represents wrongly the main message of the Bible and Jesus

The main message of the Bible and Jesus isn’t about avoiding Hell to get into Heaven. It is so important to know that God cares about you here and now and not about just the afterlife. Jesus spoke of a life worth living being a loving life empowered by God. Jesus’ salvation was about living a meaningful life here on earth with God’s help. The Bible/Jesus/God’s message isn’t dropping to your knees to avoid Hell to go to Heaven after death, but start loving now – a path toward great relationships.  See here.

God only seeks to inspire you to avoid a life full of regrets

I believe Jesus spoke of loving God not to get into heaven but to receive help in loving others as you love yourself now. You may be different than me, but I get help from God in pursuing a life not full of regrets. Try it! It’s on God to come through for you if you choose to follow. Jesus when leaving this earth spoke of having God’s spirit within us. If you refuse to love, you may end up a lonely, regretful soul.

Why Is It Important To Know Hell Is A Myth?

Mike Edwards has been writing for Done with Religion for some time and has been a great addition to the site. He couldn’t find enough people to discuss God openly so he started blogging years ago. Mike also has his own site where he writes that can be found at What God May Really Be Like  He can be contacted by email at: medwar2@gmail.com

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What Is Main Message about Bible/Jesus That Christians Get Wrong?

Posted in Bible, christian living, Love of God, religion, The church, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , on November 17, 2024|

By Mike Edwards

Hell is certainly a message Christians get wrong. I am convinced a literal Hell is a biblical myth.  See here.  We get wrong that God thinks women can’t serve in the same religious or marriage roles that men can. Another myth. See here. Also, we get wrong that God condemns gays according to the Bible. Another myth. See here. But the biggest myth may be that God’s main message according to the Bible is that salvation is about going to Heaven or Hell rather than how to live life here on earth. People reject God based on claims about hell, women, or gays. But it is so important to know that God cares about you here and now and not about just the afterlife.

The main message isn’t about a literal Hell somewhere other than on earth

Gehenna, the Greek word translated as Hell in the New Testament, was the name of a real valley near Jerusalem with a history of terrible, ending slaughter.  Gehenna is best translated Gehenna just as Mount Everest is best translated Mount Everest. There is no word in Hebrew or Greek for “hell.” Jesus used Gehenna to illustrate that spiritual death is as tragic as physical death. God creating a literal Hell where people are tortured for billions of years for beliefs held a short time here on earth isn’t possible biblically or morally.   See here.  See here. 

The main message isn’t about God saving us to enter Heaven away from Earth 

Jesus taught as if God’s Kingdom was near, not coming in distant future. “Truly I tell you, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see that the kingdom of God has come with power.” (Mk 9:1) The Good News throughout the Gospels refers to a Kingdom here on earth now. The kingdom of God “has come upon you” (Mt 12:28) and “is in your midst.” (Lk 17:21) The word “heaven” appears the most in the Gospel of Matthew. The Kingdom of Heaven isn’t a place to go after life on earth. Jesus sought to bring heavenly love to earth – “on earth as in heaven.”

What about eternal life?

Jesus was asked by a religious leader how to have eternal life. (Lk.10:25-37). Jesus elsewhere defined eternal life as beginning in the here and now (Jn 17:3), not what awaited in the afterlife. I doubt the leader had in mind how to get into Heaven away from this Earth. Jesus simply said to love God and your neighbor. “Eternal” appears to be on the quality not quantity in life. Jesus spoke of a life worth living being a loving life empowered by God. Jesus’ salvation was about living a meaningful life here on earth with God’s help. The Bible/Jesus/God’s message isn’t dropping to your knees to avoid Hell to go to Heaven after death, but start loving now – a path toward great relationships.

What did the earliest Gospel says how Jesus spoke to others? 

I read through the Gospel of Mark to see what Jesus’ main message was to others. Mark’s Gospel is considered the earliest written from which Matthew and Luke cited. In all the Gospels Jesus never advises to preach to the masses to save them from Hell in the afterlife. Jesus sought to help others avoid hell here on earth. Sin is destructive. It has natural consequences.

  • When Jesus met his disciples, he only said “follow me.” (Mark 1: 16:17, 2:14) A set of beliefs wasn’t required. The main message to the disciples was living a life worth living.
  • People were bringing children to Jesus and he said “anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” (Mark 10:15) The kingdom of God was not a future home but a current reality. Jesus has just said “some who are standing here will not taste death before they see that the kingdom of God has come with power.” (Mark 9:1)
  • A rich person asked how to have eternal life. Jesus said sell everything and follow me. (Mark 10: 17-31) Surely Jesus’ point was to love people more than possessions. What does following Jesus mean? When asked what was the greatest commandments, Jesus only said to love God and your neighbors (Mark 12:30-31). What! Not drop to your knees and say a prayer!
  • The above interactions are like when Jesus dealt with the women caught in adultery. (Jn. 7:53-8:11) Jesus only encouraged the woman to go and sin no more. Where was his evangelical spiel. He might never see her again! Apparently, Jesus came to encourage living a loving life toward others and yourself.

Didn’t Paul though preach repent to avoid punishment? 

The Apostle Paul did say “believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Rm 10:9) Paul recognized Jesus’ death and resurrection, but Jesus’ sacrifice was to draw attention to the Good News already proclaimed by Paul – God’s desire to empower unselfish living. Paul preached about the Kingdom of God being here (Acts). Paul did say “the wages of sin is death.” (Rm. 6:23) But Paul is speaking of spiritual death because Paul is still alive though sin has put him to death (Rm. 7:11). Paul mentions Heaven twice in Romans, yet says nothing about Jesus dying so we can go to Heaven (Rm. 1:18, 10:6). The Apostle Paul who wrote most of the NT never refers to Hell. No prophet in the OT warned of Hell as a consequence for behaviors here on earth.

What about life after death?

We don’t know exactly what happens after life here on earth. We are free to speculate what a loving God might do. Go ahead and live like Hell while here on earth! Careful the regrets you, your family, and friends will feel at the end of your life. Careful that our character developed here on earth may make the change process longer and more painful in the life to come. It is reasonable to believe a loving God can choose to take forever in this life and the life to come to save everyone from themselves. It is possible to interpret the Bible as claiming all eventually go to be with God after death.  See here.

God only seeks to inspire you to avoid a life full of regrets

We are told the message of the Bible is Jesus coming to give you salvation to save you from Hell so you could enter Heaven. I believe Jesus spoke of loving God not to get into heaven but to receive help in loving others as you love yourself now. You may be different than me, but I get help from God in pursuing a life not full of regrets. Try it! It’s on God to come through for you if you choose to follow. Jesus when leaving this earth spoke of having God’s spirit within us.  If you refuse to love, you may end up a lonely, regretful soul.

What Is Main Message About Bible/Jesus That Christians Get Wrong?

Mike Edwards has been writing for Done with Religion for some time and has been a great addition to the site. He couldn’t find enough people to discuss God openly so he started blogging years ago. Mike also has his own site where he writes that can be found at What God May Really Be Like  He can be contacted by email at: medwar2@gmail.com

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Who Goes To Heaven?

Posted in Bible, christian living, Love of God, tagged , , , , , , on November 10, 2024|

By Mike Edwards

I don’t believe the main message of the Bible and Jesus is about saving you from Hell so you can enter Heaven, but most of us wonder what happens after death. I am convinced Jesus spoke of loving God not to get into heaven but to receive help in loving others as you love yourself here on earth. Jesus seemed more focused on life here on earth than life after death. Jesus when leaving this earth spoke of having God’s spirit within us (John 16), not waiting to be rescued from earth to heaven. Besides, the Bible’s message couldn’t be about avoiding Hell.

Hell is morally and biblically impossible! 

Many who believe God exist suggest God has given us moral intuitions to discern evil from good. We don’t need a Book to know sexual abuse or murder is wrong. God creating a literal Hell where people are tortured for billions of years for beliefs held a short time here on earth isn’t possible morally or biblically. See here. See here. Humans wouldn’t even create such a place for our enemies. God or humans can’t possibly be happy in heaven if loved ones are tormented after death forever.

The Bible might even declare all go to heaven

It is suggested by many religious leaders that according to the Bible some go to hell and some go to heaven, though doubtful a literal Hell exist. Some may suggest that some will simply die and others go to heaven. The problem is the Bible, being literature, requires interpretation. It is possible to interpret the Bible as claiming all eventually go to be with God after death.  See here.

What did Jesus say about heaven or eternal life?

The word “heaven” appears the most in the Gospel of Matthew. The Kingdom of Heaven isn’t a place to go after life on earth. Jesus sought to bring heavenly love to earth – “on earth as in heaven.” Jesus was asked by a religious leader how to have eternal life. Jesus elsewhere defined eternal life as beginning in the here and now (Jn 17:3), not what awaited in the afterlife. I doubt the leader had in mind how to get into Heaven. Jesus simply said to love God and your neighbor (Lk.10:25-37). The emphasis appears to be on the quality not quantity in life. Jesus spoke of a life worth living being a loving life empowered by God. Jesus’ salvation was about living a meaningful life here on earth with God’s help!

More of what Jesus said through the eyes of Mark

Most Christians believe to understand Jesus is to understand God. I read through the Gospel of Mark to see what Jesus’ message was to others. Mark’s Gospel is considered the earliest written from which Matthew and Luke cited. In all the Gospels Jesus never advises to preach to the masses to save them from Hell in the afterlife. Jesus seemingly sought to help others avoid hell here on earth. Sin is destructive. It has natural consequences.

  • When Jesus met his disciples, he only said “follow me.” (Mark 1: 16:17, 2:14) A set of beliefs wasn’t required. I don’t see any message to the disciples other than living a life worth living.
  • Jesus said “Whoever does God’s will is my brother and sister and mother.” (Mark 3:35) Being close to God or Jesus isn’t claiming certain beliefs or traditions; Jesus simply encouraged actions that lead to loving others as yourself. “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.” (Mark 9:35)
  • People were bringing children to Jesus and he said “anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” (Mark 10:15) The kingdom of God was not a future home but a current reality. Jesus has just said “some who are standing here will not taste death before they see that the kingdom of God has come with power.” (Mark 9:1)
  • A rich person asked how to have eternal life. Jesus said sell everything and follow me. (Mark 10: 17-31) Surely Jesus’ point was to love people more than possessions. What does following Jesus mean? When asked what was the greatest commandments, Jesus only said to love God and your neighbors (Mark 12:30-31). What! Not drop to your knees and say a prayer!
  • The above interactions are similar to when Jesus dealt with the women caught in adultery. (Jn. 7:53-8:11) Jesus only encouraged the woman to go and sin no more. Where was his evangelical spiel. He might never see her again! Apparently, Jesus came to encourage living a loving life toward others and yourself.

Why not live like hell here on earth?

One may think that if Hell isn’t a reality and who knows about Heaven – why not live our sinful fantasies? I experience such actions end up in misery. I know I am a better husband, father, and friend because of God’s influence. God only wants to help you become the person you deep down desire to come. We will fail but God is quick to forgive and help us to get back up. Go ahead and live like Hell while here on earth! Careful the regrets you, your family, and friends will feel at the end of your life. Decide on short or long-term happiness. Careful that our character developed here on earth may make the change process longer and more painful in the life to come. 

What’s next in afterlife?

The Bible suggests, whether having faith here on earth or not, all will be judged. After death God may bring to memory actions of betrayal and how it felt to their victims. The cleansing and educative effect may take longer for some than others. Justice from a fair, merciful God is possible despite people being given a second chance after death. We don’t know exactly what happens after life here on earth. We are free to speculate what a loving God might do. It is just as reasonable, if not more reasonable, to believe a loving God can choose to take forever in this life and the life to come to save everyone from themselves.

Who Goes To Heaven?

Mike Edwards has been writing for Done with Religion for some time and has been a great addition to the site. He couldn’t find enough people to discuss God openly so he started blogging years ago. Mike also has his own site where he writes that can be found at What God May Really Be Like  He can be contacted by email at: medwar2@gmail.com

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