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Who Were the Rich Man and Lazarus ?

The rich man and Lazarus are story characters in one of Jesus’ speeches. (Luke 16:19-31)

In the story, these men represented two groups of people:

(1) the proud Jewish religious leaders of Jesus’ day and

(2) the lowly but sincere people who responded to Jesus’ message.

What did Jesus say about the rich man and Lazarus?

In Luke chapter 16, Jesus describes two men who experience drastic changes in their circumstances.

Here is a summary of the story Jesus told: A rich man lived in luxury. A beggar named Lazarus was placed at the rich man’s gate; he hoped to be given any food that dropped from the rich man’s table.

In time, Lazarus died, and angels carried him to Abraham’s side. The rich man also died and was buried.

In the story, both men are portrayed as conscious after death. The dead rich man was being tormented by a blazing fire and asked Abraham to send Lazarus to cool his tongue with a drop of water from Lazarus’ finger.

Abraham denied the rich man’s request and said that both men had now experienced a complete reversal of their circumstances and that a great chasm had been formed between the two that could not be crossed.

Did this story really happen?

No. This is a parable that Jesus related in order to teach a lesson. The fact that this is a parable is acknowledged by scholars.

For example, a subheading in the 1912 edition of Luther’s Bible states that this is a parable. And the Catholic Jerusalem Bible, in a footnote, states that this is a “parable in story form without reference to any historical personage.”

Was Jesus teaching lessons about life after death? Did he mean that some people suffer in a hellfire when they die and that Abraham and Lazarus were in heaven? Several facts show that this could not be the case.

For example:

If the rich man were in a literal place of burning torment, would not the fire evaporate the water on Lazarus’ fingertip?

Even if it were not evaporated, would a single drop of water bring the rich man lasting relief from his suffering in a literal fire?

How could Abraham be alive in heaven, since Jesus clearly stated that up to the time Jesus related the parable, no one had gone to heaven?—John 3:13.

Does this story support the doctrine of hellfire?

No. Although this is not a literal story, some argue that it symbolizes the idea that good people go to heaven and bad people are tormented in hellfire.

Is that conclusion reasonable? No.

The teaching of hellfire does not fit in with what the Bible says about the condition of the dead. For example, it does not say that all good people who die experience bliss in heaven or that bad people are tortured in hellfire.

Some Bible translations use the word “hell” to describe the rich man’s location after death. However, the original Greek word (Hades) used at Luke 16:23 simply means mankind’s common grave.


Rather, the Bible clearly states: “The living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing at all.”—Ecclesiastes 9:5.

What is the meaning of the story of the rich man and Lazarus?

The story shows that two groups of people were about to experience a great change in circumstances.

The rich man evidently symbolized the Jewish religious leaders, “who were money lovers.” (Luke 16:14) They listened as Jesus spoke, but they opposed his message. These religious leaders looked down on the common people.—John 7:49.

Lazarus symbolized the common people who accepted Jesus’ message and who were despised by the Jewish religious leaders.

The change in circumstances was drastic for both groups.

The Jewish religious leaders thought that they enjoyed God’s favor. But they experienced death, as it were, when God rejected them and their form of worship because they did not accept Jesus’ message. And they were tormented by the message that Jesus and his followers preached.—Matthew 23:29, 30; Acts 5:29-33.

The common people—who had long been neglected by their religious leaders—were now experiencing favor. Many accepted the Scriptural message that Jesus taught and benefited from it. They now had the opportunity to enjoy God’s favor eternally.—John 17:3.

Did God Use Evolution to Create the Different Types of Life?

No. The Bible clearly stated that God created humans as well as different “kinds” of animal and plant life. (Genesis 1:12, 21, 25, 27; Revelation 4:11)

It says that the entire human family descended from Adam and Eve, our first parents. (Genesis 3:20; 4:1)

The Bible account does not support the theory that God used evolution to bring about the different kinds of life, sometimes called theistic evolution.

The fact is, though, that nothing in the Bible conflicts with scientific observations that variations occur within each kind of life.


Did God use evolution?

The term “theistic evolution” refers to a broad variety of ideas. According to the Encyclopædia Britannica, the term promotes the idea that “natural selection is one of the mechanisms with which God directs the natural world.”

Theistic evolution can also include the following ideas:

All living organisms descended from common ancestors in the distant past.

One kind of life-form can evolve into a completely different kind of life-form, a concept that is sometimes referred to as macroevolution.

God is somehow ultimately responsible for these processes.

Is evolution compatible with the Bible?

Theistic evolution implies that the Bible’s account of creation in Genesis is not completely accurate.

However, Jesus referred to the Genesis account as historical fact. (Genesis 1:26, 27; 2:18-24; Matthew 19:4-6)

The Bible says that before coming to earth, Jesus lived in heaven with God and was involved in helping God to bring “all things” into existence. (John 1:3) Therefore, the idea that God used evolution to bring about different life-forms is incompatible with Bible teachings.

What about the ability of plants and animals to adapt?

The Bible does not explain how much variation can occur within a kind. Neither does it contradict the fact that the different kinds of animals and plants created by God can vary as they breed or adapt to new environments. Although some view such adaptations as a form of evolution, no new kind of life is produced.

The Bible uses the word “kind,” which is much broader in meaning than the word “species” as used by scientists. Often, what scientists choose to call the evolution of a new species is simply a matter of variation within a kind, as the word is used in the Genesis account.

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First of all let consider what the scriptures says about this;

From everlasting to everlasting he is God.
Psalms 90:1,2

Jehovah is a God of all eternity.
Isaiah 40:28

He existed for all eternity.
Jud 25

He is the King of eternity.
1 Timothy 1:17

He will always exist in the future.
Revelation 1:8

This means that God has always existed, no matter how far back in time we can gaze.

He has no beginning and will have no end. He always exist.

This his eternal existence is the attributes of the almighty.

Draslo:
According to Christian doctrine, there is God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. 3-in-1, Holy Trinity. Na Mary born Jesus and Jesus is God the Son abi is he not?

Is God a Trinity?

Many Christian denominations teach that God is a Trinity. However, note what the Encyclopædia Britannica states: “Neither the word Trinity nor the explicit doctrine appears in the New Testament . . . The doctrine developed gradually over several centuries and through many controversies.”

In fact, the God of the Bible is never described as being part of a Trinity. Note these Bible passages:

“Jehovah our God is one Jehovah.”—Deuteronomy 6:4.

“You, whose name is Jehovah, you alone are the Most High over all the earth.”—Psalm 83:18.

“This means everlasting life, their taking in knowledge of you, the only true God, and of the one whom you sent forth, Jesus Christ.”—John 17:3.

“God is only one.”—Galatians 3:20.

What Does the Bible Say About Marriage?

After creating the first man and woman, God brought them together in marriage. He instituted marriage as a special bond between a man and a woman as a foundation for the family unit.—Genesis 1:27, 28; 2:18.

God wants married couples to be happy. (Proverbs 5:18) In the Bible, he provides standards for marriage as well as principles that can help a marriage succeed.

What are God’s standards for marriage?
From the beginning, God created marriage to be a union of one man and one woman. (Genesis 2:24) God does not approve of polygamy, homosexual acts, or couples living together without marriage. (1 Corinthians 6:9; 1 Thessalonians 4:3) Jesus taught his followers to adhere to God’s original standard for marriage.—Mark 10:6-8.

In God’s eyes, marriage creates a permanent bond. When a man and a woman get married, they promise to be loyal to each other and to stay together for as long as they are both alive. God expects them to keep that promise.—Mark 10:9.

What about separation and divorce?

There may be times when a husband and wife must be apart from each other, such as when one mate needs to travel to care for a family emergency. But the Bible discourages separation resulting from marital problems. Instead, it urges couples in such a situation to work toward reconciliation.—1 Corinthians 7:10.

Adultery is the only Scriptural grounds for divorce. (Matthew 19:9) Hence, if a husband and wife decide to separate or to divorce for any reason other than adultery, neither partner is Scripturally free to date someone else or to remarry.—Matthew 5:32; 1 Corinthians 7:11.

Does a marriage need to be registered legally to be approved by God?

God expects Christians to obey secular laws regarding marriage. (Titus 3:1) When it is possible for a couple to register their marriage legally, their doing so shows respect for secular authorities and for God’s standard that marriage is a lasting commitment. a

What roles and responsibilities does the Bible assign to husbands and wives?

Shared responsibilities. Husbands and wives should treat each other with love and respect. (Ephesians 5:33) They should care for each other’s sexual needs in a loving way and avoid all forms of unfaithfulness. (1 Corinthians 7:3; Hebrews 13:4) If they have children, husbands and wives share the responsibility of raising them.—Proverbs 6:20

The Bible does not discuss in detail how married couples should share secular work and household chores. They can decide together what will work best for their family.

A husband’s role.

The Bible says that “a husband is head of his wife.” (Ephesians 5:23) He is the head in the sense that he should guide his family and make decisions that will benefit his wife and children.

He should strive to ensure that their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs are cared for. (1 Timothy 5: He shows that he values his wife’s qualities and capabilities by working closely with her and by carefully considering her opinion and feelings when making decisions. (Proverbs 31:11, 28) The Bible says that a husband ought to care for his responsibilities in a loving way.—Colossians 3:19.

A wife’s role.

The Bible says that a “wife should have deep respect for her husband.” (Ephesians 5:33) God is pleased when a wife respects the role that he assigned to her husband.

Her role is to assist her husband, helping him to make good decisions and supporting his headship. (Genesis 2:18) The Bible speaks highly of a wife who fulfills her important role in marriage.—Proverbs 31:10.

Does God require married couples today to have children?

No. In the past, God commanded some of his worshippers to have children. (Genesis 1:28; 9:1) But Christians are not bound by that instruction. Jesus never commanded his followers to have children. Neither did any of his early disciples say that married couples must have children. Couples can decide for themselves whether they will raise a family.

How can the Bible help your marriage?

The Bible contains principles that can help couples get their marriage off to a good start. Bible principles can also help couples to avoid or overcome difficulties.

Bible principles can help a married couple to . . .

show true love.—1 Corinthians 13:4-7; Colossians 3:14.

deal with differences.—1 Corinthians 10:24.

be good listeners.—James 1:19.

show respect.—Romans 12:10.

be forgiving.—1 Peter 4:8.

be loyal.—Mark 10:9.

be patient.—Ephesians 4:2, 3.

work as a team.—Ecclesiastes 4:9.

strengthen their commitment.—Song of Solomon 8:7.

Regarding the Bible’s view of customary or tribal marriages, see The Watchtower of October 15, 2006, page 21, paragraph 12.

Bible verses about marriage
Proverbs 18:22: “The one who finds a good wife has found something good.”

Meaning: The Bible speaks positively about marriage.

Malachi 2:15: “Do not deal treacherously with the wife of your youth.”

Meaning: God wants husbands and wives to be faithful to each other and to treat each other respectfully, even after many years of marriage.

Mark 10:9: “What God has yoked together, let no man put apart.”

Meaning: God intended for marriage to be a permanent bond of companionship.

Hebrews 13:4: “Let marriage be honorable among all.”

Meaning: Couples should place a high value on their marriage and work hard to protect it.

1 Corinthians 7:28: “Those who [marry] will have tribulation in their flesh.”

Meaning: No marriage is perfect; couples need to work together to overcome challenges.

OAM4J, prof800(m), UjSizzle(f), Mynd44, lalasticlala(m), Seun(m)

Belief in the immortality of the soul and in reincarnation can be traced back to ancient Babylon. Later, Indian philosophers formulated the doctrine of Karma. According to the Britannica Encyclopedia of World Religions, Karma is “the law of cause and effect, which states that what one does in this present life will have its effect in the next life.”​—Page 913.

Does the Bible Teach Reincarnation?

No, it does not. Neither the word “reincarnation” nor the idea appears in the Bible.

Belief in reincarnation is based on the teaching of the immortality of the soul. a However, the Bible teaches that the soul is the entire person and is thus mortal. (Genesis 2:7, footnote; Ezekiel 18:4) At death, a person ceases to exist.​—Genesis 3:​19; Ecclesiastes 9:​5, 6.

What is the difference between reincarnation and resurrection?

The Bible’s teaching of the resurrection is not based on the immortality of the soul. In the resurrection, people who have died will be brought back into existence by God’s power. (Matthew 22:23, 29; Acts 24:15) The resurrection offers the positive hope of coming back to a new earth with the prospect of never dying again.​—2 Peter 3:​13; Revelation 21:​3, 4.

Misconceptions about reincarnation and the Bible

Misconception: The Bible says that the prophet Elijah was reincarnated as John the Baptist.

Fact: God foretold: “I am sending to you Elijah the prophet,” and Jesus showed that John the Baptist fulfilled this prophecy. (Malachi 4:​5, 6; Matthew 11:13, 14)

However, this did not mean that Elijah had been reincarnated as John the Baptist. John himself said that he was not Elijah. (John 1:​21) Instead, John performed a work like Elijah’s, proclaiming God’s message calling for repentance. (1 Kings 18:36, 37; Matthew 3:1) John also proved to be “strong and mighty like the prophet Elijah.”​—Luke 1:​13-​17, Good News Translation.

Misconception: The Bible refers to reincarnation as being “born again.”

Fact: The Bible shows that being born again is a spiritual rebirth that takes place while a person is still alive. (John 1:​12, 13) This rebirth is, not an inevitable consequence of past actions, but a blessing from God, giving those who receive it a unique hope for the future.​—John 3:3; 1 Peter 1:​3, 4.

Several religious denominations teach that Mary is the mother of God. They may refer to her as “Queen of Heaven” or as Theotokos, a Greek word that means “God-bearer.



But, Is Mary really the Mother of God?

No, the Bible does not teach that Mary is the mother of God, nor does it suggest that Christians should either worship or venerate Mary.

Consider:

Mary never claimed that she was the mother of God. The Bible explains that she gave birth to “the Son of God,” not God himself.​—Mark 1:1; Luke 1:​32.

Jesus Christ never said that Mary was God’s mother or that she was worthy of special devotion. In fact, he corrected a woman who gave special attention to Mary’s happy role as his mother, saying: “No, rather, happy are those hearing the word of God and keeping it!”​—Luke 11:27, 28.

The terms “Mother of God” and “Theotokos” (God-bearer) are not found in the Bible.

The expression “Queen of Heaven” in the Bible refers, not to Mary, but to a false goddess worshipped by apostate Israelites. (Jeremiah 44:15-​19) The “Queen of Heaven” may have been Ishtar (Astarte), a Babylonian goddess.

Early Christians did not worship Mary, nor did they give her any special honor. One historian states that early Christians “would have rejected cults and probably feared that undue attention to Mary might evoke a suspicion of goddess worship.”​—In Quest of the Jewish Mary.

The Bible says that God has always existed. (Psalm 90:​1, 2; Isaiah 40:28) Since he had no beginning, he cannot have a mother. Furthermore, Mary could not have held God in her womb; the Bible makes clear that even the heavens cannot contain him.​—1 Kings 8:​27.

Mary​—Mother of Jesus not “Mother of God”

Mary was Jewish by birth, and she was a direct descendant of King David. (Luke 3:​23-​31) She was highly favored by God for her faith and devotion. (Luke 1:​28) God chose her to become the mother of Jesus. (Luke 1:​31, 35) Along with her husband, Joseph, Mary had other children.​—Mark 6:3.

Although the Bible shows that Mary became a disciple of Jesus, not much additional information is given about her.​—Acts 1:​14.

Why do some consider Mary the mother of God?

The earliest evidence of devotion to Mary dates from the late fourth century C.E. At that time, the Catholic Church became the State religion of the Roman Empire. As a result, many who had a pagan background became nominal Christians. The church had also adopted the unscriptural teaching of the Trinity.

The doctrine of the Trinity led many in the church to conclude that if Jesus were God, then Mary must be the mother of God. In 431 C.E., a church council in Ephesus officially proclaimed Mary the “Mother of God.”

Mariolatry​—the excessive veneration of Mary​—flourished after this Council of Ephesus. And as those from a pagan background joined the church, images and icons of the Virgin Mary gradually took the place of their fertility goddesses, such as Artemis (Diana, to the Romans) and Isis.

In 432 C.E., Pope Sixtus III ordered a church to be built in Rome in honor of the “Mother of God.” It was built near the site of an earlier temple erected in honor of Lucina, the Roman goddess of childbirth. One author described this church as “an enduring symbol of the assimilation of the Great Mother of the pagan cults to the cult of Mary after the Christianization of Rome.”​—Mary​—The Complete Resource.

How to Be a Good Father

What is the role of a father?

Before your child is born. The kind of husband you are now indicates the kind of dad you will be later.

A father who helps his pregnant partner buy supplies, takes her to doctors’ visits, and sees the fetus on an ultrasound or hears its heartbeat is more likely to be involved with his partner and baby after the birth.

Bible principle: “Look out not only for your own interests, but also for the interests of others.”—Philippians 2:4.

After your child is born. You can create a bond by playing with and holding your infant. Share in caregiving tasks too. Your involvement as a father contributes significantly to your child’s development. The bond that you build shows that you view your child as precious to you.

You can Get down to your child’s level. Play. Be goofy. Don’t take yourself too seriously. Remember, a child’s first impression of love comes from you as a parent.

Bible principle: “Children are an inheritance from Jehovah; the fruit of the womb is a reward.”—Psalm 127:3.

As your child grows. Research shows that children who are close to their father do better at school, have fewer emotional problems, and are less likely to abuse drugs or get involved in delinquent behavior. Take the time needed to cultivate a good relationship with your child.

Bible principle: “Keep strict watch that how you walk is not as unwise but as wise persons, making the best use of your time.”—Ephesians 5:15, 16.

How is a father unique?

Traditionally, fathers have been viewed as material providers and physical protectors of the family, while mothers have been regarded as more sensitive to the family’s emotional needs. (Deuteronomy 1:31; Isaiah 49:15)

Those roles may overlap—in some families, to a large degree. Nevertheless, researchers say that a dad and a mom each contribute a unique ingredient to the parenting recipe.



A father brings a measure of stability and protection to the family that a mother may struggle to provide on her own. At the same time, a mother creates a nurturing environment as she listens with empathy. Both work together as a team.

Bible principle: “Listen, my son, to the discipline of your father, and do not forsake the instruction of your mother.”—Proverbs 1:8.

As a father, you teach your daughter how she deserves to be treated by men. She learns this lesson in the following two ways:

1) By observing how you treat her mother. When you love and respect your wife, your daughter sees the qualities that are important for her to look for in a spouse later in life.—1 Peter 3:7.

2) By observing how you treat her. When you show respect for your daughter, you teach her to respect herself. She also learns to expect that kind of treatment from other men.

In contrast, persistent criticism damages a girl’s self-worth and can cause her to look to other men for approval—men who do not have her best interests at heart.

A daughter who has the love and support of her father is not likely to be swept off her feet by a man who doesn’t have the qualities to be a good husband.


Review: How can I be a good Father?

Be involved before your child is born. The kind of husband you are during your wife’s pregnancy indicates the kind of dad you will be after your child is born.

Maintain a good relationship as your child grows. Children who are close to their father do better at school, have fewer emotional problems, and are less likely to abuse alcohol or drugs.

Be a good husband. Showing love and respect for your wife teaches girls what kind of treatment they should rightly expect from a man

15 Interesting Life Lessons

1. You were born with potential. You are not a mistake. You are not an accident. You were created with a purpose and a destiny.

2. Your potential is tied to your Creator. God created everything with the hidden ability to fulfill itself. In every seed there is a forest, in every fish, a school, in every bird, a flock, in every cow, a herd, in every girl, a woman, in every boy, a man, in every man, a nation.

3. You are responsible for releasing your potential. God has given you the ability to fulfill your purpose, but it is up to you to take action.

4. You need to know who you are. You need to understand your strengths and weaknesses, your passions and your purpose.

5. You need to set goals. What do you want to achieve in your life? Once you know what you want, you can start making a plan to get there.

6. You need to take action. Don't just sit around and dream about your goals. Take steps every day to make them a reality.

7. You need to be persistent. There will be times when you want to give up. But if you keep going, you will eventually reach your goals.

8. You need to be positive. A positive attitude will help you stay motivated and focused.

9. You need to be willing to learn. The world is constantly changing, so you need to be willing to learn new things in order to keep up.

10. You need to be patient. It takes time to achieve great things. Don't expect to reach your goals overnight.

11. The moment you realize that you are not your thoughts, you become free.

12. The present moment is the only reality. It’s the only place where life unfolds.

13. When the mind is full of thoughts, it loses its clarity. When it is mindful, it regains its clarity.

14. Don’t seek happiness outside yourself. It lies within, waiting to be discovered.

15. The mind is like a wild horse, running in all directions. Meditation is the art of taming this horse.


16. Be grateful for everything in life, big or small. Gratitude opens the doors to abundance.

17. Letting go is not about giving up; it’s about surrendering to what is and finding peace within.

18. Silence is not the absence of sound, but the presence of inner stillness.

19. In the silence of the mind, you can hear the whispers of your soul.

20. Be kind to yourself and others. Kindness is the language of love.

21. True freedom lies in breaking free from the limitations of the mind.

22. Don't dwell in the past or worry about the future. Find your peace in the present moment.

23. Life is a journey of self-discovery. The more you explore within, the more you understand the world.

24. Embrace the impermanence of life. It teaches you to cherish each moment.

25. The true essence of mindfulness is being fully present and engaged in whatever you are doing

6 Habits to transform your life in 21 days:

1. Attitude is crucial:

Every- thing that happens to you is a challenge and an opportunity at the same time.

2. How you respond is key:

what hurts us is not what happens to us, but our response to what happens to us. The most important thing is how we RESPOND to what happens to us in our lives. And that is a CHOICE!

3. Keep your self talk positive:

Keep the conversation with yourself positive, such as "I want to achieve success", "I want to be slim", "God, I am good", because your subcon- scious mind doesn't understand the little word "NO". It sees your words as IMAGES.

4. Choose your thoughts carefully:

"If you realized how powerful your thoughts are, you would never think a negative thought,"

5. New habits new life:

The coaching process is, in its essence a process of changing the client's habits over time by introducing new ways of doing things

If you keep doing what you are doing, you will keep getting the results you are getting.

6. Watch your words:

The words that we use to describe our experiences become our experiences!..

Onyiiobi7735:
Very wonderful post, brother.

Thanks 😊

We can remain positive despite the serious problems we face today. But can we realistically expect things to get better? Yes!
The Bible gives us a solid hope for a better tomorrow.

What hope does the Bible provide?

The Bible acknowledges that humankind faces tremendous problems. However, it promises that these problems will not afflict us indefinitely. Consider a few specific examples.

1) Problem: Homelessness

What the Bible says:
“They will build houses and live in them.”—Isaiah 65:21.

What it means for the future: People will enjoy their own home.

2) Problem: Unemployment and poverty

What the Bible says:
“The work of their hands my chosen ones will enjoy to the full.”—Isaiah 65:22.

What it means for the future: All humans will have satisfying, enjoyable, and rewarding work.

3) Problem: Injustice

What the Bible says: “Princes will rule for justice.”—Isaiah 32:1.

What it means for the future: Racial, social, and economic injustice will be eradicated forever. Everyone will be treated fairly.

4) Problem: Malnutrition and Hunger

What the Bible says:
“There will be an abundance of grain on the earth; on the top of the mountains it will overflow.”—Psalm 72:16.

What it means for the future: Everyone will have access to an abundance of healthy food. No one will go to bed hungry or suffer from malnutrition.

5) Problem: Crime and violence

What the Bible says: “They will sit, each one under his vine and under his fig tree, and no one will make them afraid.”—Micah 4:4.

What it means for the future: Everyone will feel safe and secure because wicked people will be gone, and “the righteous will possess the earth.”—Psalm 37:10, 29.

5) Problem: War

What the Bible says: “Nation will not lift up sword against nation, nor will they learn war anymore.”—Isaiah 2:4.

What it means for the future: Peace will prevail earth wide. (Psalm 72:7) No one will need to mourn the death of a loved one killed in war or seek refuge from war zones.

6) Problem: Sickness and disease

What the Bible says: “No resident will say: ‘I am sick.’”—Isaiah 33:24.

What it means for the future: People will no longer suffer from disabilities or get sick. (Isaiah 35:5, 6) The Bible even promises that “death will be no more.”—Revelation 21:4.

7) Problem: Damage to the environment

What the Bible says: “The wilderness and the parched land will exult, and the desert plain will be joyful and blossom as the saffron.”—Isaiah 35:1.

What it means for the future: The earth will become a global paradise for humans to inhabit, as God originally intended.—Genesis 2:15; Isaiah 45:18.

Is the hope the Bible offers us too good to be true?

Understandably, you may feel that it is. However, we encourage you to examine further what the Bible says about the future. Why?

The promises found in the Bible are different from the promises and predictions that people make. The promises found in the Bible are from God. Here is why that makes a big difference:

God is trustworthy.

The Bible says that God “cannot lie.” (Titus 1:2) In addition, only God has the ability to foretell the future. (Isaiah 46:10)

The Bible contains countless examples that prove that what God foretells always comes true. For more information, watch the video How Can We Be Sure the Bible Is True?

God has the power to solve our problems.

The Bible says that God has the power to do “everything he pleases to do.” (Psalm 135:5, 6) In other words, nothing can stop God from fulfilling his promises. What is more, God wants to help us because he loves us.—John 3:16.

Naturally, you may wonder, ‘If God wants to help us and has the power to help us, why do we still experience so many problems?’ To answer that question, watch the video Why Does God Allow Suffering? At www.jw.org

How will this hope come about?

God will use his Kingdom, a government in heaven, to fulfill his promises. He has appointed Jesus Christ as Ruler of that Kingdom, and he has given him authority to care for the earth and the people on it.

When Jesus was on earth, he cured the sick, fed the hungry, controlled the weather, and even resurrected the dead. (Mark 4:39; 6:41-44; Luke 4:40; John 11:43, 44) He thus showed what he would do as King of God’s Kingdom.

Watch the video What Is God’s Kingdom? to learn more about how God’s Kingdom will benefit you. At www.jw.org

When will this hope be fulfilled?

Soon! How can we be sure? The Bible foretold events that would signal that God’s Kingdom is about to begin its rule over the earth. (Luke 21:10, 11) Present world conditions match what the Bible foretold.

To learn more, read the article “When Will God’s Kingdom Rule the Earth?” At www.jw.org

How can the hope the Bible offers us help you today?

One Bible writer compared the hope that the Bible gives to an “anchor for the soul.” (Hebrews 6:19) Just as an anchor keeps a ship steady during a storm, the Bible’s solid hope for the future can help us weather the problems we face today. Our hope can protect our emotional and mental stability, and even our physical well-being.—1 Thessalonians 5:8.

Peace on Earth—How Will It Come?

Peace on earth will come, not by human efforts, but by means of God’s Kingdom, a heavenly government ruled by Christ Jesus. Notice how the Bible teaches us about this wonderful hope.

God will make “wars to cease to the extremity of the earth,” fulfilling his promise to bring “peace on earth to those with whom he is pleased!”—Psalm 46:9; Luke 2:14, Good News Translation.

God’s Kingdom will rule from heaven over the entire earth. (Daniel 7:14) As a world government, it will eliminate nationalism, which is at the root of many conflicts.

Jesus, the Ruler of God’s Kingdom, is called the “Prince of Peace,” and he will ensure that “to peace there will be no end.”—Isaiah 9:6, 7.

People determined to keep fighting will not be allowed to live under the Kingdom, since “anyone loving violence [God’s] soul certainly hates.”—Psalm 11:5; Proverbs 2:22.

God teaches his subjects how to live in peace. Describing the results of this instruction, the Bible says: “They will have to beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning shears. Nation will not lift up sword against nation, neither will they learn war anymore.”—Isaiah 2:3, 4.

The only solution to mankind problems including war is God's kingdom that's why Jesus admonishes us to pray for it to come.

OAM4J, prof800(m), UjSizzle(f), Mynd44, lalasticlala(m), Seun(m)

What Is the Bible?

The Bible is a collection of 66 sacred books. It was written over a period of approximately 1,600 years. The Bible contains a divine message—“the word of God.”—1 Thessalonians 2:13.

Facts about the Bible

Who wrote the Bible?

God is the Author of the Bible, but he used approximately 40 different men to write it. Some of these men were Moses, King David, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. God put his thoughts into the minds of the writers for them to record his message.—2 Timothy 3:16.

To illustrate: If a businessman directs his secretary to write a message on his behalf, perhaps even giving the gist of it, the businessman is still the author of the message. Likewise, even though God used men to write his message, he is the real Author of the Bible.

What does the word “Bible” mean?

“Bible” comes from the Greek word biblia, meaning “little books.” In time, biblia came to describe the whole collection of smaller books that together make up the Bible.

When was the Bible written?

The Bible began to be written in 1513 B.C.E. and was completed over 1,600 years later, about 98 C.E.

Where is the original Bible?

No original Bible writings are known to have survived. This is because Bible writers used perishable materials available at the time, such as papyrus and parchment. However, professional scribes meticulously copied and recopied Bible writings for centuries, preserving their contents for future readers.

What are the “Old Testament” and the “New Testament”?

What is commonly called the Old Testament describes the part of the Bible that was written mainly in Hebrew, also known as the Hebrew Scriptures.
What is called the New Testament refers to the section written in Greek, known as the Christian Greek Scriptures. The two parts together form one complete book, also called the Holy Scriptures.

What is in the Bible?

The various parts of the Bible contain history, laws, prophecy, poetry, proverbs, songs, and letters.

What is the Bible about?

The Bible begins with a brief overview of the creation of the heavens and the earth by Almighty God. By means of the Bible, he introduces himself by his name, Jehovah, inviting humans to get to know him.—Psalm 83:18.

The Bible explains that God has been misrepresented, and it shows how he will restore his reputation.

The Bible reveals God’s purpose for mankind and the earth. It shows how God will eliminate the causes of human suffering in the future.

The Bible provides practical advice for daily life. Examples of this include:

1. Maintaining good relationships.

“All things, therefore, that you want men to do to you, you also must do to them.”—Matthew 7:12.

Meaning: We should treat others the way we would like to be treated.

2. Dealing with stress.

“Never be anxious about the next day, for the next day will have its own anxieties.”—Matthew 6:34.

Meaning: Instead of worrying excessively about what may happen in the future, we do well to live one day at a time.

3. Enjoying a happy marriage.

“Each one of you must love his wife as he does himself; on the other hand, the wife should have deep respect for her husband.”—Ephesians 5:33.

Meaning: Love and respect are vital to a successful marriage.

Has the Bible been changed?

No. Scholars have carefully compared ancient Bible manuscripts with today’s Bible and have found that the Bible’s original message is basically unchanged. This makes sense—after all, if God wants his message to be read and understood, is it not reasonable that he would ensure that the message would not be changed? —Isaiah 40:8.

Why are there so many different translations of the Bible?

Most modern readers cannot understand ancient Bible languages. Yet the Bible has “good news” for “every nation and tribe and language.” (Revelation 14:6, ) For that reason, people need a translation of the Bible in a language they understand so that they can read and properly understand God’s message.

Bible translations reflect three basic styles:

1. A word-for-word translation is as literal as possible.

2. A thought-for-thought translation uses words that represent the meaning of the original-language text.

3. A paraphrase translation freely rewords the text, aiming to make it enjoyable to read. However, the freeness of paraphrased translations may at times obscure the true meaning of the passage.

A good Bible translation balances literal translation with understandable modern language to convey God’s message to mankind accurately.

Who decided what should be included in the Bible?

As its Author, God decided what belongs in the Bible. He first chose the ancient nation of Israel to be “entrusted with the sacred pronouncements of God,” acting as custodians of the Hebrew Scriptures.—Romans 3:2.

Are there lost books of the Bible?

No. The Bible is complete; there are no “lost” books. Some may claim that certain ancient books that were long concealed rightly belong in the Bible. However, the Bible contains its own internal measure of authenticity. (2 Timothy 1:13) Using this standard, Bible books that are inspired by God completely harmonize with one another. This cannot be said for all ancient writings that some individuals claim belong in the Bible.

How to find Bible verses

List of Bible books
Hebrew Scriptures (“Old Testament”)

- History and laws

Genesis

Exodus

Leviticus

Numbers

Deuteronomy

- History of the nation of Israel

Joshua

Judges

Ruth

1 and 2 Samuel

1 and 2 Kings

1 and 2 Chronicles

Ezra

Nehemiah

Esther

- Poetry

Job

Psalms

Proverbs

Ecclesiastes

Song of Solomon

- Prophecy

Isaiah

Jeremiah

Lamentations

Ezekiel

Daniel

Hosea

Joel

Amos

Obadiah

Jonah

Micah

Nahum

Habakkuk

Zephaniah

Haggai

Zechariah

Malachi

Christian Greek Scriptures (“New Testament”)

- History of Jesus’ life and ministry (Gospels)

Matthew

Mark

Luke

John

- History of the early Christian congregation

Acts

- Letters to various Christian congregations

Romans

1 and 2 Corinthians

Galatians

Ephesians

Philippians

Colossians

1 and 2 Thessalonians

- Letters to individual Christians

1 and 2 Timothy

Titus

Philemon

- General letters to Christians

Hebrews

James

1 and 2 Peter

1, 2, and 3 John

Jude

- Prophecy

Revelation

The Bible is a great gift and guidance from god.

The Bible itself provides many of the keys to understanding it. Regardless of your background, God’s message in the Bible “is not too difficult for you, nor is it far away.”—Deuteronomy 30:11.

Keys to understanding the Bible

1. Have the right attitude.

Accept the Bible as God’s Word. Be humble, since God opposes the proud. (1 Thessalonians 2:13; James 4:6).

However, avoid blind faith—God wants you to use your “power of reason.”—Romans 12:1, 2.

2. Pray for wisdom.

“Do not lean upon your own understanding,” the Bible says at Proverbs 3:5. Instead, “keep on asking God” for wisdom in understanding the Bible.—James 1:5.

3. Be consistent.

You will benefit much more from Bible study if you do it regularly rather than sporadically.—Joshua 1:8.

4. Study by topic.

A topical study, in which you analyze what the Bible says about a particular topic or subject, is an effective way to learn what the Scriptures teach.

Start with “the beginning lessons,” as it were, and then “go forward to more mature (advanced) teaching.” (Hebrews 6:1, 2, Easy-to-Read Version)

You’ll find that you can compare scripture with scripture and learn that various parts of the Bible explain each other, even the parts that are “hard to understand.”—2 Peter 3:16.

5. Get help from others.

The Bible encourages us to accept help from others who understand the Bible. (Acts 8:30, 31)

Things you don’t need

1. High intellect or education.

Jesus’ 12 apostles understood the Scriptures and taught them to others, even though the apostles were considered by some to be “unlettered and ordinary.”—Acts 4:13.

2. Money.

You can learn what the Bible teaches without cost. Jesus told his disciples: “You received free, give free.”—Matthew 10:8.

What Does the Bible Say About Living Together Without Marriage?

The Bible says that God’s will is for people to “abstain from sexual immorality.” (1 Thessalonians 4:3)

As used in the Bible, the term “sexual immorality” includes adultery, homosexual acts, and sex between a man and a woman who are not married.

Why does it matter to God whether couples marry or not?

The marriage arrangement comes from God. He instituted it when he brought the first human couple together. (Genesis 2:22-24) He did not intend for a man and a woman to live together without the commitment of marriage.

God knows what is best for humans. He designed marriage to be a permanent union between a man and a woman that would benefit and protect all family members.

Consider a simple illustration. Just as the instructions that come from the manufacturer show you how to assemble a piece of furniture correctly, God’s instructions tell us how to build successful family relationships. God’s standards always benefit those who follow them.—Isaiah 48:17, 18.

A manufacturer’s instructions show you how to assemble a piece of furniture. God’s instructions tell us how to build a successful family

Sex outside of marriage can have serious consequences. For example, it can result in unwanted pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, and emotional turmoil.

God gave men and women the ability to procreate by means of sex. God views life as sacred, and the ability to procreate is a precious gift. God wants us to treat that gift with respect by honoring his arrangement for marriage.—Hebrews 13:4.

What about living together before marriage to test compatibility?

The key to a successful marriage is not a preliminary “trial period” during which either partner can freely leave. Instead, relationships thrive when both partners are strongly committed to each other and work together to overcome problems. Marriage strengthens commitment.—Matthew 19:6.

How can couples build a strong marriage?

There are no perfect marriages. However, couples can build a successful marriage by applying the Bible’s advice. Here are some examples:

Put the needs of your mate ahead of your own.—1 Corinthians 7:3-5; Philippians 2:3, 4.

Cultivate love and respect for each other.—Ephesians 5:25, 33.

Learn to control your speech.—Proverbs 12:18.

Be patient and quick to forgive.—Colossians 3:13, 14.

What Is Baptism?

Baptism refers to a person’s being submerged in water and coming up out of it. That explains why Jesus was baptized in a sizable river. (Matthew 3:​13, 16) Likewise, an Ethiopian man asked to be baptized when coming to “a body of water.”​—Acts 8:​36-​40.

The meaning of baptism

The Bible compares baptism to burial. (Romans 6:4; Colossians 2:​12) Water baptism symbolizes a person’s dying to his past course of life and beginning a new one as a Christian dedicated to God.

Baptism and the steps that lead up to it are God’s arrangement for a person to gain a clean conscience based on his faith in the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. (1 Peter 3:​21) Thus, Jesus taught that his disciples must get baptized.​—Matthew 28:19, 20.

Does water baptism wash away sin?

No. The Bible teaches that we can be cleansed from sin only through Jesus’ shed blood. (Romans 5:​8, 9; 1 John 1:7) To benefit from Jesus’ sacrifice, however, a person must exercise faith in Jesus, change his course of life to live in harmony with Jesus’ teachings, and get baptized.​—Acts 2:​38; 3:​19.

What is christening?

The terms “christen” and “christening” do not appear in the Bible. They refer to a ceremony performed by some churches in which an infant is “baptized” (by having water sprinkled or poured on his head) and named.

Does the Bible teach infant baptism?

No, it does not. Christian baptism is for those old enough to understand and believe in “the good news of the Kingdom of God.” (Acts 8:​12) It is linked with hearing God’s word, accepting it, and repenting​—actions that an infant cannot take.​—Acts 2:​22, 38, 41.

In addition, the Bible shows that God views the young children of Christians as being holy, or clean in his sight, because of the parents’ faithful course. (1 Corinthians 7:​14) If infant baptism were valid, those children would not need to have the merit of someone else extended to them. b

Misconceptions about Christian baptism

Misconception: Sprinkling or pouring water on a person is an acceptable substitute for complete immersion.

Fact: The baptisms mentioned in the Bible all involved immersion. For example, when the disciple Philip baptized the Ethiopian man, they “went down into the water” for the baptism. Afterward, “they came up out of the water.”​—Acts 8:​36-​39.

Misconception: The Bible implies that infants were included when entire households were baptized. For example, it says of a jailer in Philippi: “He and his entire household were baptized.”​—Acts 16:31-​34.

Fact: The account of the jailer’s conversion indicates that those who were baptized understood “the word of Jehovah” and that they “rejoiced greatly.” (Acts 16:32, 34) Those facts lead to the conclusion that any infants in the jailer’s household would not have been included in the baptism, because they could not understand the word of Jehovah.

Misconception: Jesus taught infant baptism by saying that the Kingdom belongs to young children.​—Matthew 19:13-​15; Mark 10:13-​16.

Fact: Jesus was not discussing baptism when he said those words. Instead, he was showing that those who would qualify for the Kingdom of God must be childlike​—meek and teachable.​—Matthew 18:4; Luke 18:16, 17.

What Does It Mean to Be Born Again?

The term “born again” refers to a new beginning in the relationship between God and the person who is born again. (John 3:​3, 7) God adopts those born again as his children. (Romans 8:​15, 16; Galatians 4:5; 1 John 3:1) Similar to those who are legally adopted, they experience a change of status, becoming part of God’s family.​—2 Corinthians 6:​18.

Why is a person born again?

Jesus said: “Unless anyone is born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God.” (John 3:3)

So being born again prepares a person to rule with Christ in God’s Kingdom. This Kingdom rules from heaven, so the Bible describes the “new birth” as providing an inheritance that is “reserved in the heavens.” (1 Peter 1:​3, 4)

Those who are born again are given the conviction that they will “rule together as kings” with Christ.​—2 Timothy 2:​12; 2 Corinthians 1:​21, 22.

How is a person born again?

When Jesus discussed the subject, he said that those born again would be “born from water and spirit.” (John 3:5) This expression refers to baptism in water followed by baptism with holy spirit.​—Acts 1:5; 2:​1-4.

Jesus was the first person to be born again. He was baptized in the Jordan River, after which God anointed (or, baptized) him with holy spirit.

Jesus was thus born again by holy spirit as a son of God with the hope of returning to life in heaven. (Mark 1:​9-​11) God fulfilled this hope by resurrecting Jesus as a spirit creature.​—Acts 13:33.

Others who are born again are also baptized in water before they receive the holy spirit.(Acts 2:​38, 41) They then have the sure hope of life in heaven, which God will fulfill in the resurrection.​—1 Corinthians 15:42-​49.

Misconceptions about being born again

Misconception: A person must be born again to gain salvation or to be a Christian.

Fact: Christ’s sacrifice provides salvation not only for those who are born again as the ones who will rule with Christ in heaven but also for the earthly subjects of God’s Kingdom. (1 John 2:​1, 2; Revelation 5:​9, 10)

That second group of Christians have the opportunity to live forever in Paradise on earth.​—Psalm 37:29; Matthew 6:​9, 10; Revelation 21:​1-5.

Misconception: A person can choose to be born again.

Fact: The opportunity to have a relationship with God and gain salvation is open to all. (1 Timothy 2:​3, 4; James 4:8 )
However, God chooses those who will be born again, or anointed with holy spirit.

According to the Bible, being born again “depends, not on a person’s desire or on his effort, but on God.” (Romans 9:​16) The expression “born again” can also be rendered “born from above,” confirming that the selection of those who are born again comes “from above,” or from God.​—John 3:3.

Who Was Cain’s Wife?

Cain, the eldest child of the first human couple, married one of his sisters or another close female relative. This conclusion may be drawn by considering what the Bible says about Cain and his family.

Facts about Cain and his family

All humans descended from Adam and Eve. God “made out of one man [Adam] every nation of men to dwell on the entire surface of the earth.” (Acts 17:26) Adam’s wife, Eve, became “the mother of everyone living.” (Genesis 3:​20) Therefore, Cain must have married a fellow descendant of Adam and Eve.

Cain and his brother Abel were the first of a number of children born to Eve. (Genesis 4:​1, 2) When Cain was banished for killing his brother, he complained: “Anyone who finds me will certainly kill me.” (Genesis 4:​14) Of whom was Cain afraid? The Bible says that Adam “became father to sons and daughters.” (Genesis 5:4) Evidently, these other descendants of Adam and Eve could have posed a threat to Cain.

Early in human history, marrying one’s relative was not uncommon. The faithful man Abraham, for example, married his half sister. (Genesis 20:12) The first prohibitions against such marriage appeared in the Mosaic Law, which was codified centuries after Cain’s day. (Leviticus 18:​9, 12, 13) It seems that children born to close relatives back then were not as prone to birth defects as they are today.

The Bible presents the account of Adam, Eve, and their family as accurate history. Detailed genealogies going back to Adam can be found not only in the book of Genesis, written by Moses, but also in the writings of the historians Ezra and Luke. (Genesis 5:​3-5; 1 Chronicles 1:​1-4; Luke 3:​38) Bible writers cite the story of Cain as a historical event.​—Hebrews 11:4; 1 John 3:​12; Jude 11.

Is Hell Real? What Is Hell According to the Bible ?

Various Bible translations, such as the King James Version, use the word “hell” in some verses. (Psalm 16:10; Acts 2:27 )

Many people believe that hell is a place of eternal fire where the wicked are punished. But is that what the Bible teaches?

Is hell a place of eternal suffering?

No. The original words translated as “hell” in some older Bible translations (Hebrew, “Sheol”; Greek, “Hades”) basically refer to “the Grave,” that is, the common grave of mankind. The Bible shows that people in “the Grave” are in a state of nonexistence.

The dead are unconscious and so cannot feel pain. “Neither work, nor reason, nor wisdom, nor knowledge, shall be in hell.” (Ecclesiastes 9:10, Douay-Rheims Version)

Hell is not filled with sounds of pain. Instead, the Bible says: “Let the wicked be ashamed, and let them be silent in the grave [hell, Douay-Rheims].”—Psalm 31:17; King James Version (30:18, Douay-Rheims); Psalm 115:17.

God has set death, not torment in a fiery hell, as the penalty for sin.

God told the first man, Adam, that the penalty for breaking God’s law would be death. (Genesis 2:17)
He said nothing about eternal torment in hell.

Later, after Adam sinned, God told him what his punishment would be: “Dust you are and to dust you will return.” (Genesis 3:19)

He would pass out of existence. If God were actually sending Adam to a fiery hell, He surely would have mentioned it. God has not changed the punishment for defying his laws. Long after Adam sinned, God inspired a Bible writer to say: “The wages sin pays is death.” (Romans 6:23) No further penalty is justified, because “the one who has died has been acquitted from his sin.”—Romans 6:7.

The idea of eternal torment is repugnant to God. (Jeremiah 32:35) Such an idea is contrary to the Bible’s teaching that “God is love.” (1 John 4:8 ) He wants us to worship him out of love, not fear of eternal torment.—Matthew 22:36-38.

Good people went to hell. The Bibles that use the word “hell” indicate that faithful men, such as Jacob and Job, expected to go to hell. (Genesis 37:35; Job 14:13) Even Jesus Christ is spoken of as being in hell between the time of his death and his resurrection. (Acts 2:31, 32) Obviously, then, when “hell” is used in these Bibles, it simply refers to the Grave.

What about Jesus’ parable of the rich man and Lazarus?

This parable was used by Jesus and recorded at Luke 16:19-31. Parables are illustrations that teach moral or spiritual truths. The parable of the rich man and Lazarus was not a real-life account. (Matthew 13:34)

Does hell represent separation from God?

No. The doctrine that the dead can be aware of being separated from God contradicts the Bible, which clearly teaches that the dead are not conscious of anything.—Psalm 146:3, 4; Ecclesiastes 9:5.

Has anyone been released from hell?

Yes. The Bible provides detailed accounts of nine people who went to the Grave (translated as “hell” in some Bibles) and were brought back to life by resurrection.

If they had been aware of their surroundings in hell, they would have been able to speak about that from personal experience. Significantly, though, none mentioned being in torment or experiencing anything at all. The reason? As the Bible consistently teaches, they had been unconscious, as if in a deep “sleep.”—John 11:11-14; 1 Corinthians 15:3-6.

Most modern English translations do not use the word “hell” in Acts 2:27. Rather, some use expressions such as “the grave,” (New Century Version); “the realm of the dead,” (New International Version); “the dead” (The Passion Translation). Others simply transliterate the Greek word as “Hades.”​—Holman Christian Standard Bible, NET Bible, New American Standard Bible, English Standard Version.

See 1 Kings 17:17-24; 2 Kings 4:32-37; 13:20, 21; Matthew 28:5, 6;
Luke 7:11-17; 8:40-56; John 11:38-44; Acts 9:36-42; Acts 20:7-12.

Bible verses about hell, or the Grave

1) Job 14:13: “O that in the Grave [“hell,” Douay-Rheims Version] you would conceal me, . . . that you would set a time limit for me and remember me!”

Meaning: The faithful man Job knew that hell (the Grave) would bring him relief from his pain and that God could restore him to life from there.

2) Psalm 145:20: “Jehovah guards all those who love him, but all the wicked he will annihilate.”

Meaning: God will annihilate, or permanently destroy, the wicked. He will not keep them alive in hell in order to torment them.

3) Ecclesiastes 9:10: “There is no work nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom in the Grave [“hell,” Douay-Rheims Version], where you are going.”

Meaning: Those in the Grave, or hell, are unconscious and cannot suffer. Moreover, those to whom the Bible writer addressed his words of wisdom obviously included good people.

4) Acts 2:31: “He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell.”—King James Version.

Meaning: Jesus Christ went to hell (the Grave) when he died.

5) Romans 6:23: “The wages sin pays is death.”

Meaning: Death, not torment in hell, is the full penalty for sin.

6) Revelation 20:13: “Death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them.”—King James Version.

Meaning: Those in hell are dead. They will come back to life by means of the resurrection.

7) Revelation 20:14: “Death and hell were cast into the lake of fire.”—King James Version.

Meaning: After being emptied by means of the resurrection, hell (the Grave) will be destroyed forever, as if by fire. Thereafter, death resulting from Adam’s sin will be no more.​—Romans 5:12.

Original-language Bible words
As the following list shows, Bible translators have created confusion by using the word “hell” for original-language words with different meanings. In some cases, it seems that they wanted to promote the idea that the wicked will be eternally tormented, not destroyed.

1) Sheol (Hebrew שְׁאוֹל), Hades (Greek ᾅδης)

Meaning: Common grave of mankind.—Psalm 16:10; Acts 2:31

Renderings: Grave, hell, pit (King James Version); realm of the dead (New International Version)

2) Gehenna (Greek γέεννα)

Meaning: Eternal destruction.—Matthew 5:30

Renderings: Gehenna; hell (King James Version, New International Version)

3) Tartarus (Greek ταρταρόω)

Meaning: Abased condition of the demons, who are wicked spirit creatures.—2 Peter 2:4

Renderings: Tartarus; hell (King James Version, New International Version); lower hell (Douay-Rheims Version)

4) Apoleia (Greek ἀπώλεια)

Meaning: Destruction.—Matthew 7:13

Renderings: Destruction; hell (Good News Bible)

5) Pyr (Greek πῦρ)

Meaning: Fire, literally or figuratively.—Luke 17:29; Jude 23

Renderings: Fire; fire of hell (God’s Word Translation)

The history of hellfire

1) Pagan origin: The ancient Egyptians believed in a fiery hell. The funerary text Book Ȧm-Ṭuat (Amduat), which historians date back to the 16th century B.C.E., describes those who “shall be cast down headlong into the pits of fire; and . . . shall not be able to flee from the flames.”—The Egyptian Heaven and Hell.

Not taught by the earliest Christians: “It is noteworthy that in the N[ew] T[estament] we do not find hell fire to be a part of the [early Christian] preaching.”—A Dictionary of Christian Theology.

2) Greek philosophy crept in: “From the middle of the 2nd century [C.E.] Christians who had some training in Greek philosophy began to feel the need to express their faith in its terms . . . The philosophy that suited them best was Platonism [the teachings of Plato].” (Encyclopædia Britannica) That philosophy included belief in fiery torment after death. “Of all classical Greek philosophers, the one who has had the greatest influence on traditional views of Hell is Plato.”—Histoire des enfers (The History of Hell).

3) Hellfire was used to justify torture: During the time period commonly referred to as the Spanish Inquisition, those convicted of heresy and burned at the stake were said to be given “a taste of what perpetual hellfire would be like,” supposedly in hopes that they would repent before dying. (The Spanish Inquisition, by Jean Plaidy) Similarly, Queen Mary I of England burned some 300 Protestants at the stake, reportedly believing that “as the souls of heretics are afterwards to be eternally burning in hell, there could be nothing more proper than to imitate the divine vengeance, by burning them on earth.”—Universal History, by Alexander Tytler.

Modern changes: Some denominations have softened their teaching about hell, apparently based more on a desire to please their members than to reject a false teaching. (2 Timothy 4:3) “People want a God who’s warm and fuzzy . . . It’s counter to the culture of today to talk about sin and guilt.”—Professor Jackson W. Carroll.

Who Go to Heaven?

God selects a limited number of faithful Christians who, after their death, will be resurrected to life in heaven. (1 Peter 1:​3, 4)

Once they have been chosen, they must continue to maintain a Christian standard of faith and conduct in order not to be disqualified from receiving their heavenly inheritance.​—Ephesians 5:5; Philippians 3:​12-​14.

What will those who go to heaven do there?

They will serve alongside Jesus as kings and priests for 1,000 years. (Revelation 5:​9, 10; 20:6)

They will form the “new heavens,” or heavenly government, that will rule over the “new earth,” or earthly society.

Those heavenly rulers will help restore mankind to the righteous conditions that God originally intended.​—Isaiah 65:17; 2 Peter 3:​13.

How many will be resurrected to heaven?

The Bible indicates that 144,000 people will be resurrected to heavenly life. (Revelation 7:4)

In the vision recorded at Revelation 14:​1-3, the apostle John saw “the Lamb standing on Mount Zion, and with him 144,000.”

In this vision, “the Lamb” represents the resurrected Jesus. (John 1:​29; 1 Peter 1:​19)

“Mount Zion” represents the exalted position of Jesus and the 144,000 who rule with him in the heavens.​—Psalm 2:6; Hebrews 12:22.

Those “who are called and chosen” to rule with Christ in the Kingdom are referred to as a “little flock.” (Revelation 17:14; Luke 12:32)

This shows that they would be relatively few in comparison with the complete number of Jesus’ sheep.​—John 10:16.

Misconceptions about those who go to heaven

1) Misconception: All good people go to heaven.

Fact: God promises everlasting life on earth for most good people.​—Psalm 37:11, 29, 34.

Jesus said: “No man has ascended into heaven.” (John 3:​13)

He thus showed that good people who died before him, such as Abraham, Moses, Job, and David, did not go to heaven. (Acts 2:​29, 34)

Instead, they had the hope of being resurrected to life on earth.​—Job 14:13-​15.

The resurrection to heavenly life is called “the first resurrection.” (Revelation 20:6) This indicates that there will be another resurrection. It will be an earthly one.

The Bible teaches that under the rule of God’s Kingdom, “death will be no more.” (Revelation 21:​3, 4) This promise must apply to the earth, since death has never existed in heaven.

2) Misconception: Each person chooses whether he or she will receive life in heaven or on earth.

Fact: God determines which faithful Christians receive “the prize of the upward call,” that is, the hope of heavenly life. (Philippians 3:​14) Personal desire or ambition has no bearing on a person’s being chosen.​—Matthew 20:20-​23.

3) Misconception: The hope of everlasting life on earth is an inferior one, offered only to those not worthy of going to heaven.

Fact: God calls those who will receive everlasting life on earth “my people,” “my chosen ones,” and “those blessed by Jehovah.” (Isaiah 65:21-​23)

They will have the privilege of fulfilling God’s original purpose for humankind​—everlasting life in perfection on a paradise earth.​—Genesis 1:​28; Psalm 115:16; Isaiah 45:18.

4) Misconception: The number 144,000 mentioned in Revelation is symbolic, not literal.

Fact: Although Revelation contains symbolic numbers, some of the numbers it uses are literal.

For example, it speaks of “the 12 names of the 12 apostles of the Lamb.” (Revelation 21:14) Consider the evidence for concluding that the number 144,000 should likewise be taken literally.

Revelation 7:4 records “the number of those who were sealed [or, confirmed for life in heaven], 144,000.”

In the immediate context of this verse, a second group is contrasted: “a great crowd, which no man was able to number.” Those of the “great crowd” also receive salvation from God. (Revelation 7:​9, 10) If the number 144,000 were symbolic, referring instead to a group without number, then the contrast between the two groups would be lost.

In addition, the 144,000 are described as being “bought from among mankind as firstfruits.” (Revelation 14:4) The expression “firstfruits” refers to a small representative selection. It aptly describes those who will rule in heaven with Christ over an undetermined number of subjects on earth.​—Revelation 5:​10.

In conclusion not all good people go to heaven same as not everyone are rulers but only those selected by Jehovah god.The subject being the greater number will live here on Earth. The problems facing humans today on Earth would be eradicated.

The money won't reach everyone but the impact of the subsidy removal (suffering) will affect all.

OAM4J, prof800(m), UjSizzle(f), Mynd44, lalasticlala(m), Seun(m)