The concept of hell is one of the most sobering and discussed themes within the Christian faith and the broader biblical narrative. It serves as a critical reminder of the consequences of sin, the reality of divine justice, and the urgency of our spiritual state. While often portrayed in popular culture as a place of fiery torment, hell’s representation in the Bible encompasses a range of imagery and theological implications that call believers to consider their relationship with God seriously.
Throughout the Scriptures, hell is depicted as a place of separation from God, a realm of punishment for unrepentant sinners, and a condition of ultimate despair. Many verses address the nature of hell, the fate of the wicked, and the contrasting promise of eternal life for the faithful. Understanding what the Bible says about hell is essential for comprehending the broader narrative of redemption and the Gospel message.
In this article, we will explore 100 Bible verses about hell, categorized to provide a comprehensive view of what Scripture teaches on this weighty subject. Each verse will be accompanied by a brief explanation to facilitate deeper understanding and reflection.
Verses Describing Hell as a Place of Punishment
1. Matthew 5:22
“But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.”
This verse highlights the severe consequences of unchecked anger and contempt, equating them with hellfire.
2. Matthew 10:28
“And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.”
Jesus emphasizes the importance of revering God, who holds the power over eternal destinies.
3. Matthew 13:40-42
“As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world. The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity; and shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.”
This passage vividly illustrates the fate of the wicked, using the imagery of a furnace of fire.
4. Matthew 25:41
“Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels.”
Here, Jesus speaks of the final judgment, indicating hell as a prepared place for those who reject Him.
5. Mark 9:43-44
“And if thy hand offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter into life maimed, than having two hands to go into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched: Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.”
Jesus warns about the severity of sin and the eternal consequences of failing to repent.
6. Luke 16:23
“And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.”
This verse from the parable of the rich man and Lazarus illustrates the consciousness and torment experienced in hell.
7. Revelation 20:10
“And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever.”
This verse affirms the eternal nature of hell, where evil will face unending punishment.
8. 2 Thessalonians 1:9
“Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power.”
The ultimate punishment involves eternal separation from God’s presence.
9. Hebrews 10:27
“But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.”
This verse indicates that judgment awaits those who oppose God and His ways.
10. Revelation 21:8
“But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.”
This verse provides a sobering list of those who will face eternal punishment.
Verses Highlighting Separation from God
11. Isaiah 59:2
“But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear.”
Sin creates a chasm between humanity and God, leading to spiritual death and separation.
12. Matthew 7:23
“And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.”
The absence of a relationship with Christ results in eternal separation from God.
13. John 3:36
“He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.”
This verse highlights the consequences of rejecting Christ, resulting in enduring God’s wrath.
14. Romans 1:18
“For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness.”
God’s judgment is directed towards those who suppress the truth and live in sin.
15. 2 Peter 2:9
“The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished.”
God reserves judgment for the unrighteous, signifying separation from Him.
Verses That Portray Hell as Eternal
16. Matthew 25:46
“And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.”
This verse clearly distinguishes between eternal punishment and eternal life.
17. Revelation 14:11
“And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name.”
The imagery suggests that torment in hell is unending and relentless.
18. Mark 9:48
“Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.”
This phrase emphasizes the continuous nature of hell’s suffering.
19. Matthew 18:34
“And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him.”
This verse implies a sense of ongoing punishment until a debt is fulfilled, suggesting an unending nature of torment.
20. Luke 12:5
“But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.”
This verse affirms the final authority of God in determining eternal destinies.
Verses That Warn Against Unrepentance
21. Proverbs 15:24
“The way of life is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath.”
Wisdom leads to life, while foolishness leads to destruction.
22. Ezekiel 18:30
“Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways, saith the Lord God. Repent, and turn yourselves from all your offenses; so sin shall not be your ruin.”
This verse emphasizes the necessity of repentance to avoid judgment.
23. Revelation 2:11
“He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.”
Overcoming faith protects believers from the final judgment.
24. Romans 6:23
“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
Sin leads to death, highlighting the seriousness of living a life without repentance.
25. Galatians 6:7
“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.”
Our actions have consequences, and unrepentance leads to dire results.
Verses That Speak to the Nature of Hell
26. Matthew 8:12
“But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”
The description of outer darkness indicates separation from light and joy.
27. Luke 13:28
“There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out.”
This verse emphasizes the anguish of realizing one’s separation from God’s presence.
28. Revelation 20:14
“And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.”
The ultimate end of hell signifies complete defeat and the eternal nature of punishment.
29. Isaiah 14:9-10
“Hell from beneath is moved for thee to meet thee at thy coming: it stirreth up the dead for thee, even all the chief ones of the earth; it hath raised up from their thrones all the kings of the nations.”
This passage depicts hell as an active place, eager to receive the unrighteous.
30. Matthew 22:13
“Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”
The binding imagery suggests helplessness in the face of divine judgment.
Verses That Contrast Heaven and Hell
31. Luke 16:26
“And besides all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.”
This verse underscores the irreversible nature of the separation between heaven and hell.
32. John 14:2
“In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.”
The promise of heaven serves as a counterpoint to the fate awaiting the unrepentant.
33. Revelation 21:4
“And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.”
The hope of heaven emphasizes the absence of suffering compared to the reality of hell.
34. Philippians 3:20
“For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.”
Believers’ focus should be on their heavenly citizenship, contrasting with the fate of the lost.
35. Colossians 3:2
“Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.”
This verse encourages believers to prioritize their eternal destiny over worldly concerns.
Verses About God’s Justice
36. Psalm 9:17
“The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God.”
This verse affirms God’s justice in dealing with the wicked.
37. Jeremiah 51:6
“Flee out of the midst of Babylon, and deliver every man his soul: be not cut off in her iniquity; for this is the time of the Lord’s vengeance, and he will render unto her a recompense.”
God’s vengeance signifies the serious consequences of rebellion against Him.
38. Romans 2:6
“Who will render to every man according to his deeds.”
This verse underscores the certainty of God’s justice, as He rewards or punishes based on one’s actions.
39. 2 Peter 3:9
“The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”
God’s patience highlights His desire for repentance, yet judgment is inevitable for those who do not respond.
40. Psalm 34:21
“Evil shall slay the wicked: and they that hate the righteous shall be desolate.”
This verse confirms that evil leads to self-destruction and ultimately hell.
Verses Emphasizing the Urgency of Salvation
41. Matthew 4:17
“From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
The call to repentance is vital as the kingdom of heaven is approaching, indicating the need to turn from sin.
42. Acts 2:38
“Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.”
Repentance is essential for forgiveness and receiving the Holy Spirit.
43. Romans 10:9-10
“That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.”
Salvation hinges on confession and belief in Christ, avoiding the consequences of hell.
44. 1 Timothy 2:4
“Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.”
God’s desire is for all to experience salvation, highlighting the urgency of responding to the Gospel.
45. Hebrews 3:15
“While it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation.”
The immediacy of salvation is emphasized, warning against hardening one’s heart to God’s call.
Verses That Encourage Faithfulness
46. James 1:12
“Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.”
Endurance and faithfulness will be rewarded with eternal life, contrasting with the fate of the unfaithful.
47. Revelation 2:10
“Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.”
Faithfulness in trials leads to eternal reward.
48. 1 Peter 5:10
“But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.”
God promises restoration and eternal glory for those who persevere through suffering.
49. 2 Timothy 4:7-8
“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.”
Faithfulness to the end brings a reward, contrasting the fate of the unrepentant.
50. Philippians 1:6
“Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.”
Believers can trust in God’s faithfulness to complete His work in them.
Verses That Offer Hope in Christ
51. John 3:16
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
This foundational verse highlights God’s love and the hope of salvation through faith in Jesus.
52. John 14:6
“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”
Jesus presents Himself as the exclusive path to salvation, emphasizing the necessity of faith in Him to avoid hell.
53. Romans 5:8
“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”
God’s love is demonstrated through Christ’s sacrificial death, providing hope for sinners.
54. Ephesians 2:8-9
“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
Salvation is a gift, highlighting the grace that spares believers from hell.
55. 1 John 1:9
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
Confession and repentance offer forgiveness and the assurance of eternal life.
Verses That Illustrate God’s Mercy
56. Psalm 103:10
“He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.”
God’s mercy prevents us from receiving the full consequences of our sins.
57. Isaiah 1:18
“Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.”
God invites sinners to repentance and promises cleansing and redemption.
58. Lamentations 3:22-23
“It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.”
God’s mercies are renewed daily, offering hope and the chance for repentance.
59. Matthew 5:7
“Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.”
The principle of mercy extends to believers, encouraging them to show mercy to others.
60. 2 Chronicles 7:14
“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”
God’s promise to forgive emphasizes His mercy for those who repent.
Verses Highlighting the Eternal Nature of Hell
61. Mark 9:44
“Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.”
This imagery emphasizes the eternal nature of suffering in hell.
62. Matthew 25:41
“Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels.”
Hell is described as everlasting, intended for those who reject God.
63. Revelation 14:11
“And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name.”
The torment of hell is perpetual, with no escape.
64. Revelation 20:10
“And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever.”
Even the devil faces eternal punishment, underscoring the severity of hell.
65. Matthew 25:46
“And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.”
This verse contrasts the eternal fate of the unrighteous with the eternal life of the righteous.
Verses That Teach About Judgment Day
66. Matthew 12:36
“But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.”
Accountability for words emphasizes the seriousness of judgment.
67. 2 Corinthians 5:10
“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that everyone may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.”
This verse reminds believers that their actions will be evaluated.
68. Romans 14:12
“So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.”
Individual accountability underscores the importance of living righteously.
69. Hebrews 9:27
“And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.”
Judgment follows death, emphasizing the finality of one’s earthly life.
70. Revelation 20:12
“And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.”
The judgment of the dead highlights the importance of one’s actions and the eternal consequences.
Verses That Highlight God’s Desire for Repentance
71. Ezekiel 33:11
“Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O house of Israel?”
God’s longing for repentance illustrates His love and mercy.
72. Luke 15:7
“I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.”
Heaven rejoices when a sinner turns to God, emphasizing the importance of repentance.
73. Romans 2:4
“Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?”
God’s kindness serves as a catalyst for repentance.
74. Acts 17:30
“And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men everywhere to repent.”
The universal call to repentance emphasizes God’s desire for all to turn to Him.
75. 2 Chronicles 30:9
“For if ye turn again unto the Lord, your brethren and your children shall find compassion before them that lead them captive, so that they shall come again into this land: for the Lord your God is gracious and merciful, and will not turn away his face from you, if ye return unto him.”
God’s grace and mercy await those who return to Him.
Verses That Describe the Nature of Hell
76. Job 26:6
“Hell is naked before him, and destruction hath no covering.”
The verse illustrates God’s omniscience, as He sees all, including hell.
77. Proverbs 15:24
“The way of life is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath.”
Wisdom leads to a path that avoids hell.
78. Luke 16:23
“And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.”
The rich man’s awareness of his suffering highlights the conscious nature of hell.
79. Matthew 13:42
“And shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.”
This imagery emphasizes the intense suffering found in hell.
80. Mark 9:48
“Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.”
The perpetual state of suffering in hell is reiterated.
Verses that Warn Against False Security
81. Matthew 7:21-23
“Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.”
Mere profession of faith is insufficient; one must live in obedience to God’s will.
82. Luke 13:24
“Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.”
The necessity of striving for salvation emphasizes the effort required to follow Christ.
83. Matthew 25:11-12
“Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us. But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.”
Being unprepared for Christ’s return leads to exclusion from His kingdom.
84. Hebrews 6:4-6
“For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, and have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, if they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.”
This passage warns against the dangers of falling away from the faith.
85. 1 Corinthians 9:27
“But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.”
The importance of self-discipline in the Christian life is emphasized to avoid judgment.
Verses That Encourage Sharing the Gospel
86. Matthew 28:19-20
“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.”
The Great Commission emphasizes the urgency of spreading the Gospel to save souls from hell.
87. Romans 10:14
“How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?”
The necessity of preaching the Gospel is highlighted, as faith comes by hearing.
88. 2 Timothy 4:2
“Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.”
Believers are called to be proactive in sharing the Gospel message.
89. 1 Peter 3:15
“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear.”
The importance of being prepared to share one’s faith is emphasized.
90. Mark 16:15
“And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.”
The call to evangelism is clear, underscoring the need for the lost to hear the Good News.
Verses on God’s Justice and the Consequences of Sin
91. Psalm 7:11
“God judgeth the righteous, and God is angry with the wicked every day.”
This verse emphasizes God’s justice and His wrath against sin.
92. Galatians 6:7
“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.”
The principle of reaping what one sows highlights the consequences of actions.
93. Romans 2:6
“Who will render to every man according to his deeds.”
Accountability before God reinforces the reality of divine justice.
94. Proverbs 11:21
“Though hand join in hand, the wicked shall not be unpunished: but the seed of the righteous shall be delivered.”
God’s justice will prevail, ensuring that the wicked face consequences.
95. Revelation 21:8
“But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.”
The ultimate fate of the unrepentant is clearly stated, emphasizing the reality of hell.
Verses That Promote Hope and Assurance in Christ
96. John 10:28-29
“And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.”
The assurance of eternal security for believers emphasizes God’s faithfulness.
97. Romans 8:1
“There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.”
Believers are assured of their position in Christ, free from condemnation.
98. 2 Timothy 1:12
“For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.”
Paul expresses confidence in God’s ability to safeguard what is entrusted to Him.
99. Hebrews 10:23
“Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)”
The faithfulness of God is a foundation for believers to maintain their faith.
100. John 3:36
“He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.”
The contrast between belief and unbelief highlights the urgency of accepting Christ for eternal life.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Bible clearly portrays a dual reality of God’s mercy and the grave consequences of sin. God’s desire for all to come to repentance is evident, yet the warnings of eternal punishment serve as a serious reminder. As believers, it is our responsibility to embrace God’s mercy and share the hope of salvation with others while living a life that reflects our faith in Christ.
This collection of verses encourages reflection on our relationship with God and the urgency of sharing the Gospel. Let us strive to live in obedience, promote repentance, and hold fast to the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ.
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