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Mark

Mark 
Day 
Day 215

2 Peter 3:2 "That you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us, the apostles of the Lord and Saviour." 2 Peter 3:2"

Day 215 – Mark 9

“That you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us, the apostles of the Lord and Saviour.” 2 Peter 3:2

THE TEACHING CONCERNING “HELL”

The doctrine of “hell” is hardly the most popular of teachings. The following attitudes taken must be noted:-

1. Outright rejection

There are those who deny the doctrine of “hell”. However, they would have a hard time explaining this text (Mark 9:43-48).

2. Used as a threat

Some have used the doctrine of hell, to threaten people. (There may be some “immediate gains”.) But this approach runs contrary to how Jesus taught this doctrine.

UNDERSTANDING THE DOCTRINE OF HELL

Let us examine how Jesus taught this doctrine. The following things may be highlighted:-

1. Hell is a doctrine found in the Scriptures

a) Tracing this teaching to the Book of Isaiah
The following text from Isaiah has direct bearing on the subject of “hell”.

“And they shall go forth and look upon the corpses
of the men who have transgressed against Me.
For their worm does not die, and their fire is not quenched.”
ISAIAH 66:24

b) Reiterating this doctrine as valid and relevant

Jesus personally taught that hell exists. This is borne out in the following texts:-

i)Reference made to hell (Mark 9:43, 45, 47)
ii)Reference is also made to hell-fire (Mark 9:44, 46, 48)
(Some ancient manuscripts do not include Verses 46, 48; nevertheless they contain Mark 9:44; a single mention is sufficient!)

2. Understanding a peculiar phrase

Many are puzzled (and frightened) as they read this text.

“Their worm does not die, and the fire is not quenched.”
MARK 9:44

a) This is an illustrative reference to the Valley of Hinnom (a rubbish dump in ancient Israel; this place of disposal had a fire that burned continually, and its application to hellfire is apt.
b) Worms (maggots) are aplenty; a reference to the many who will end up in hell.