Capstone and Integration
30 min read
A course on hell should leave the student with more than information. It should leave him with conviction. One way to solidify that conviction is to write a personal theology of hell: a brief statement of what you believe, why you believe it, and how it affects your life. This lesson guides you through that process.
Your personal theology should be biblical, concise, and practical. It is not a seminary paper. It is a statement of faith that you can explain to a friend, teach to your children, and return to in moments of doubt.
Your statement should include several elements. First, the reality of hell. Hell is real because Jesus said it is real. Second, the nature of hell. It is conscious, eternal separation from God in punishment. Third, the cause of hell. Sin against a holy God deserves judgment. Fourth, the escape from hell. Repentance and faith in Jesus Christ alone. Fifth, the purpose of the doctrine. It awakens compassion, fuels evangelism, and deepens gratitude for the cross.
A doctrine that does not change how you live is not really believed. If you believe in hell, you will pray for the lost. You will speak the gospel. You will examine your own soul. You will mortify sin. You will live with eternity in view. Your personal theology should include commitments that flow from the doctrine.
A personal theology is meant to be shared. When someone asks why you believe in hell, you should be able to answer clearly and kindly. When someone objects, you should be able to respond with Scripture. When someone is indifferent, you should be able to explain what is at stake. The goal is not to win an argument but to point to Christ.
Common student mistake: Writing a theology of hell that is only intellectual, without including practical commitments and compassion for the lost.
Practice assignment: Write your own one-page personal theology of hell. Include the five elements listed in this lesson and three practical commitments.
Worksheet idea: "My Theology of Hell" — a fillable template for the five elements and practical commitments.
Completion requirement: Student can write and articulate a brief personal theology of hell that is biblical, clear, and practical.
ANSWER: A brief, biblical statement of what you believe about hell, why you believe it, and how it affects your life.
ANSWER: The reality, nature, cause, escape from, and purpose of the doctrine of hell.
ANSWER: Because a doctrine that does not change how we live is not genuinely believed.