Rethinking hell from a classical Pentecostal perspective: Some ethical considerations

Abstract

The traditional view of hell as everlasting punishment for sinners remains a significant element of classical Pentecostal proclamation. However, the issue of hell has become contentious in contemporary times, for several ethical reasons, leading to the development of alternative ways in which hell is interpreted. On the one hand some argue for terminal punishment or conditional immortality, on the other hand for a universalism where all are saved. It is argued that to end the stalemate when "proof-texts" are used to justify one position, Pentecostals should utilise their distinctive hermeneutic to reconsider the view of hell because of the ethical challenges of their traditional view. In encountering the Spirit in the biblical text, the reader learns to reflect Christ's interest in and concern for non-believers.