Jesus spoke of hell often because He came to warn people about judgment, call them to repentance, and reveal the eternal consequences of rejecting God. His teachings about hell were not meant to instill fear for fear’s sake, but to show the seriousness of sin and the reality of eternal separation from God. Jesus, more than any other figure in Scripture, described hell in vivid and sobering terms.
He said:
“And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.”
(Matthew 10:28)
Jesus used the term “Gehenna,” referring to a valley outside Jerusalem associated with idolatry and fire, as a symbol of final judgment. His language was clear:
“If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter into life maimed, rather than having two hands, to go to hell, into the fire that shall never be quenched.”
(Mark 9:43)
He also spoke of outer darkness, weeping, gnashing of teeth, and eternal fire:
“Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels.’”
(Matthew 25:41)
Jesus did not speak of hell lightly or frequently without purpose. He did so because He loves sinners and wants them to escape judgment. He warned the religious leaders, His disciples, and the crowds alike. His messages made it clear that salvation was urgent.
The reality of hell also highlights the greatness of the cross. Christ endured wrath so others could escape it:
“For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
(1 Thessalonians 5:9)
Hell is not a metaphor. It is a place of eternal punishment for those who reject God’s mercy. Jesus’ many references to hell serve as both warning and invitation, to flee from wrath and run to the Savior.
