Q9. Will the hellfire and punishment of the wicked last “forever and ever” (Revelation 14:11)? JTLD 381

Picture: Q9. Will the hellfire and punishment of the wicked last “forever and ever” (Revelation 14:11)? JTLD 381.1

The Bible makes clear the “second death” (Revelation 21:8) that the wicked suffer means their total annihilation (Malachi 4:1-3). “The wages of sin is death,” (Romans 6:23) not eternal torment in hell. To be tormented forever, the wicked would have to possess immortality, this belongs only to God and upon those to whom He bestows it (1 Corinthians 15:51-54). JTLD 381.2

Let’s consider some biblical uses of the word “forever:” JTLD 381.3

• Jonah 2:6 “forever” meant three days and nights
• Exodus 21:6 “forever” meant until death
• Jude 1:7 “forever” meant until the fire went out
• Isaiah 34:9, 10 “forever” meant until its destruction was complete
• Philemon 1:15 “forever” means as long as the person lives
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When “forever” is associated with God, its meaning is absolute—for God is immortal; when associated with mortal humans, the meaning of “forever” is limited. When the Bible speaks of eternal judgment, or forever burning, it refers to the eternal results of the judgment, not to eternal flames. Thus, those who are consumed by the second death will never rise again. The result of the judgment fire is death, which is final and eternal. Its consequences last forever. JTLD 381.4

• Bible Discovery: Psalms 37:20; 104:35; 145:20; 1 Timothy 6:16; 2 Peter 3:10; Revelation 20:10
• Further Reading: Ellen G. White, The Great Controversy, pp. 545.1; 548.3-549.1
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