So isn’t it possible that not everyone — if anyone — will stay in hell for eternity?

Questioning
From our e-mail bag

Dear Questioning:
Here it is in black and white: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). That’s Jesus speaking; not me.

I’d ask your pastor to back up what he’s teaching with Scripture. If he can’t, don’t believe him. Choose to believe the Bible — God’s Holy Word and absolute truth.

First John 4:1-4 tells us not to believe everything we hear about God, but to test it against His Word. If we can find in the Bible what we’re hearing from our teachers or pastor, and the teaching isn’t contradictory to God’s Word, then we can accept it as truth.

Hebrews 9:27 tells us that man dies once and faces judgment. Matthew 25:31-46 talks about the judgment each person will face. Look specifically at Matthew 25:46. “Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.”

Notice the word eternal. That means forever. Jesus didn’t say “temporary punishment” or “until they’ve learned their lesson.” He said eternal.

Interesting thing about heaven and hell — once you’re there, you’re there forever. And ever. And ever!

Thankfully, once you’re in heaven, there’s no chance of getting too close to the edge and accidentally falling into hell! But sadly, once you’re in hell, there’s no chance to rethink things and try again. Once you’re in hell, you’re there for all eternity.

This isn’t something Susie Shellenberger’s making up. I’ve given you Scripture to clearly show what God himself has said. Whether you believe and obey is your choice.

We have to trust God in His perfect wisdom as the perfect judge.

Dear Susie:
I’m really into sports: rodeo, motorcycle racing, dirt biking and other similar activities. My mom doesn’t understand me. She says I should act more like a girl. I always wear jeans and T-shirts, and she doesn’t think that’s appropriate for a teen girl.

I’ve tried talking with her, but it doesn’t work. How can I make her happy and not change who I am?

Wanting to Live Life to Its Fullest
From our e-mail bag

Dear WTLLTIF:
It sounds as though you and your mom have very different personalities, likes and dislikes. That’s OK. Hopefully, the two of you can learn to celebrate your differences. But the only way that’ll happen is through continued communication. I realize you feel you’re not getting through when you talk, but please keep trying!

I’m wondering how your dad feels about this and if he could help your mom understand you better. I’m guessing your dad may share some of your interests. I’m more like my dad, too, but I’ve learned to respect and appreciate the gifts my mom was blessed with.

About your clothing: Consider a compromise. Wear a skirt or dress once or twice a week to school and church. This will show your mom you’re not rebelling against her by what you wear, but you’re simply more comfortable in jeans and T-shirts because of the activities in which you’re involved. But she’ll also notice that you’re trying to please her.

The bottom line is twofold: (1) You’re not doing anything immoral. Dirt bikes and jeans aren’t sinful. So this really isn’t an issue your mom should lose sleep over. (2) However, God commands you to honor and respect your mom. So work toward a compromise and continue talking with her.

Dear Susie:
My boyfriend and I are strong Christians, but I can’t help but wonder if the Devil would try and separate us for fear that we’ll be stronger for the Lord when we’re together.

I know if you let the Devil into your life, he can be a strong influence; this has happened with past family members.

Wondering
From our e-mail bag

Dear Wondering:
I’m glad you and your guy are strong Christians. The static between the two of you could be (1) your personalities, (2) God bringing some things to your attention or (3) Satan trying to discourage you. How can you tell the difference?

Make your relationship a matter of constant prayer. Ask God to show you specifically if He wants you to call off the relationship. Let Him know you’re willing to do that, because He’s more important to you than any human relationship. God is faithful. If He wants the two of you separated, He won’t leave you guessing. He’ll make it clear.

You mentioned past family members who’ve allowed Satan into their lives, and that concerns me. I encourage you to talk with your pastor about that specifically. It’s no secret that Satan doesn’t want God’s work to thrive. Yes, he definitely can cause hardships and trials, but don’t jump to the conclusion that every difficult thing is caused by Satan; that’s simply not true.

Continue to keep your relationship before the Lord. Memorize Scripture that proves your strength in God against Satan (1 John 4:4; James 4:7), and talk with your pastor.