Welcome to Apologetics with Carl Kerby!
Today, we’re talking about annihilationism.
Besides being unscriptural, the idea that God will annihilate the wicked instead of punishing them in Hell really is a disincentive in sharing the Gospel. After all, if unbelievers don’t have to worry about going to a place of eternal torment, why should believers bother trying to save their souls?
As Charles Spurgeon said, “If I believed that sinners could be annihilated, I should have no particular reason for preaching to them; in fact, I should have a very urgent reason for never doing anything of the kind.”
You see, knowing that our unsaved friends and loved ones are on the path to eternal punishment – what Hebrews 10:27 tells us is “a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation” (KJV) – will motivate us to share the Good News that Jesus can save them from Hell and give them eternal life in Heaven.
What about the idea of purgatory? We’ll discuss that another time.
For additional resources, go to www.hopetools.net. Stay bold!
Carl Kerby is the founder of Reasons for Hope and co-creator of the DeBunked apologetic video series. His radio feature, Fast Facts, is heard weekly on VCY America, Saturdays at 9:25 AM Central.
