Rob Bell, pastor of a 10,000-member church in Grand Rapids, has written a book that is stirring controversy among Evangelicals. It is called Love Wins: Heaven, Hell, and the Fate of Every Person Who Ever Lived.
The controversy centers on the doctrine of Heaven and Hell. Questioning conventional interpretation, Rob asks: "Will only a few select people make it into Heaven [while]billions of people burn forever in hell? And if that's the case, how do you become one of the few? Does it really make sense that God is a loving, kind, compassionate God who wants to know people in a personal way, but if they reject this relationship with Jesus, they will be sent to Hell where God will eternally punish them forever?" Bell arrives at the conclusion that, in the end, love wins.
Now, let me say I have no issue with people asking hard theological questions—especially when it comes to exploring the character of God. And not having read his book, I don’t know exactly what he means by “love wins.” But if Rob Bell wants to investigate the limits of God’s love, he need look no further than the Cross upon which Jesus died to save men from sin, death, and yes, Hell. I believe an alternate title for Rob’s book should be “Love Won”.
I haven't read the book yet either, so my comment isn't about Rob, but the concept at which we arrive at heaven or hell.
ReplyDeleteI have found it more understandable to be explained like this. We were made to serve/worship. Everyone worships someone or something. We are all ultimately following one of two people in life based on that. Either God or the devil. Following God leads you on the path to eternal life, while the path the devil is on is leading to the lake of fire, because that is where he is heading. God made the lake of fire for the devil, not us, but if you follow the devil there, that's where you'll end up.
That's just my simplified understanding. I just believe the love of God and His grace is so great, that everyone will have opportunities to receive or reject Him throughout their life. But He gave us the power to choose. It's not that some are better than others, not at all, because our flesh is the same. But, choosing God won't force your will.
-David S.
Not having read the book, I can't fairly comment on Rob, but I can share my concern or him and others when I read this.
ReplyDeleteFirst, if he wants to investigate the limits of God's love, he need look no further than himself and leave the rest in God's hands. Romans 11: 32-36; 1Corinthians 1:20-25
Second, it seems like more and more we are seeing pastors of large churches being used to bring in winds of doctrines in the church not to mention sowing seeds of doubt that draw. It sounds like a wake up call to me for somebody. Ephesians 5:6-14; Matthew 7:15-23
Good comments, both of you. Whatever may be Rob Bell's purpose, ironically, the "road to hell is paved with good intentions."
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