Hell is one of the most sobering topics in the Bible. It’s not easy to think about, but it’s a reality that Scripture doesn’t avoid. The Bible speaks clearly and often about hell—not to scare us, but to warn us, guide us, and ultimately point us toward life, hope, and salvation through Jesus Christ.
The topic of hell in the Bible teaches us about the seriousness of sin, the justice of God, and the importance of our choices. But it also shows God’s mercy, because He wants no one to perish. Through these verses, we gain a deeper understanding of both the consequences of turning away from God and the beauty of His grace when we turn to Him.
Let’s take a look at 15 significant verses that teach us about hell and what it means from a biblical perspective.
1. 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.
Explanation:
Jesus reminds us to take spiritual matters seriously. Earthly threats are temporary, but eternal judgment is something only God has control over.
2. Revelation 20:15
And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.
Explanation:
This verse describes final judgment. The “book of life” represents those who belong to God. Being separated from God in the lake of fire is a picture of eternal punishment.
3. Mark 9:43
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.
Explanation:
Jesus uses strong imagery to show how serious sin is. He urges us to remove anything that leads us away from God—even if it means making difficult changes.
4. Luke 16:23
And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.
Explanation:
In this parable, Jesus describes the suffering of a rich man who ignored others in need. It illustrates that choices made in life affect our eternal destiny.
5. 2 Thessalonians 1:9
Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power.
Explanation:
Being separated from God is the most devastating part of hell. This verse emphasizes the eternal nature of that judgment.
6. Matthew 25:46
And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.
Explanation:
Jesus clearly speaks of two outcomes—eternal punishment or eternal life. The contrast shows the importance of our response to God’s offer of salvation.
7. Revelation 21:8
But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable… shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.
Explanation:
This verse lists the kinds of heart conditions and lifestyles that reject God. It serves as a warning and a call to repentance and faith.
8. Psalm 9:17
The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God.
Explanation:
David writes that rejecting God leads to destruction. This verse shows that both individuals and societies are accountable to God.
9. Jude 1:7
Even as Sodom and Gomorrha… are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire.
Explanation:
Jude points to past judgment as a symbol of future judgment. It reminds us that God’s justice is real and eternal.
10. Isaiah 66:24
And they shall go forth, and look upon the carcases of the men that have transgressed against me: for their worm shall not die, neither shall their fire be quenched…
Explanation:
Isaiah uses intense imagery to show the seriousness of rebellion against God. Jesus later quotes this verse when teaching about hell.
11. Matthew 13:42
And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.
Explanation:
This verse refers to judgment at the end of the age. The furnace of fire is symbolic of pain and separation from God for those who reject Him.
12. Proverbs 15:24
The way of life is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath.
Explanation:
Wisdom helps us choose the path that leads away from destruction. Following God’s wisdom is a safeguard against the road to hell.
13. 2 Peter 2:4
For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness…
Explanation:
Even angels were held accountable. This verse highlights that no one is exempt from God’s judgment and justice.
14. Daniel 12:2
And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.
Explanation:
Daniel speaks of resurrection and the two possible eternal outcomes—life or shame. It reflects the reality of judgment after death.
15. 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.
Explanation:
This verse is clear—faith in Jesus leads to life. Rejecting Him results in remaining under God’s judgment. But the good news is that belief brings eternal hope.
Hell in the Bible: A Warning and a Call to Hope
These verses about hell in the Bible are not meant to drive us into fear but into faith. They reveal the seriousness of sin and the reality of judgment, but they also point to the gift of salvation through Jesus. God doesn’t want anyone to be lost—He invites all to come to Him.
If this topic has stirred your heart, take time to reflect. Where do you stand with God? He offers forgiveness, freedom, and eternal life to everyone who believes.
Now it’s your turn!
Have these verses helped you understand more about hell in the Bible? Do you have a favorite Scripture on this topic or a personal story about turning toward God’s grace? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you.