Setting Sail on a Quest(ion) about Heaven and Hell – Jesus, What Can I Do For You? (Part X)

Sermon Title: Setting Sail on a Quest(ion) – Jesus, What Can I Do For You?

Good News Statement: Jesus works for us but are we willing to work for Jesus

Preached: Sunday, August 3^rd, 2025 at Dogwood Prairie and Seed Chapel UMC

Pastor Daniel G. Skelton, M.Div.

 

Scripture (NRSVUE): 1 Corinthians 15:51-54 Heaven and Hell: two words that have captured the curiosity, imagination, and wonder of millions of people across several centuries. One of those words brings forth comfort and peace, an image of green pastures and still waters, and hope and eternal salvation. The other word subjugates fear, darkness, and a feeling of being at the lowest point. Today, we are given a choice. May the hearing and understanding of this scripture add a blessing to your life.

1 Peter 3:18-22

18 For Christ also suffered for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, in order to bring you to God. He was put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit, 19 in which also he went and made a proclamation to the spirits in prison, 20 who in former times did not obey, when God waited patiently in the days of Noah, during the building of the ark, in which a few, that is, eight lives, were saved through water. 21 And baptism, which this prefigured, now saves you—not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, 22 who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers made subject to him.

Acts 2:27, 31

27 For you will not abandon my soul to Hades

    or let your Holy One experience corruption.

31 Foreseeing this, David[a] spoke of the resurrection of the Messiah, saying, ‘He was not abandoned to Hades, nor did his flesh experience corruption.’

Ephesians 4:8-10

8 Therefore it is said, “When he ascended on high, he made captivity itself a captive; he gave gifts to his people.”

9 (When it says, “He ascended,” what does it mean but that he had also descended into the lower parts of the earth? 10 He who descended is the same one who ascended far above all the heavens, so that he might fill all things.)

1 Peter 4:5-6

5 But they will have to give an accounting to him who stands ready to judge the living and the dead. 6 For this is the reason the gospel was proclaimed even to the dead, so that, though they had been judged in the flesh as everyone is judged, they might live in the spirit as God does.

This is the Word of God for the People of God; And all God’s people said, “Thanks be to God.”

 

The following Sermon Series will be drawn from the words of Biblical Scholar, Alan W. Gomes, who explores 40 Questions about Heaven and Hell in his book 40 Questions about Heaven and Hell.

Alan W. Gomes (edited by Benjamin L. Merkle), 40 Questions About Heaven and Hell, Grand Rapids, Michigan: Kregel Publications, 2018.

 

 

Introduction:

In the ethereal[1] expanse of the cosmos, there exists a realm beyond mortal comprehension: it’s known as heaven. It is not a place dictated by religious dogma or mythical tales but rather a destination for all souls after their mortal journey concludes. In this celestial sanctuary, souls find themselves liberated from the constraints of physical existence: those who were tired, weak, and carrying heavy burdens have found rest (Matthew 11:28). They are met with an abundance of peace, harmony, and boundless opportunities for growth and fulfillment. Yet, amidst this infinite splendor, a conflict simmers—one not of divine decree, but of existential choice. Among the myriad of souls that populate Heaven, there exists a divergence in belief regarding its nature. Some perceive Heaven as a utopia, a paradise where individual desires reign supreme, and personal satisfaction is paramount. Others hold a different perspective. They believe that Heaven’s true essence lies in collective goodwill, in the shared bonds of love, empathy, and compassion. Is that really what Heaven is like?

For some, the opposite of this heavenly celestial sanctuary is Hell: the abode of the “unredeemed dead.”[2] In its archaic sense, the term Hell refers to the underworld, a deep pit or distant land of shadows where the dead are gathered. From the underworld its most terrible precincts sinners pay—some say eternally—the penalty for their crimes. The underworld is often imagined as a place of punishment rather than merely of darkness and decomposition because of the widespread belief that a moral universe requires judgment and retribution—crime must pay. More broadly, Hell figures in religious cosmologies as the opposite of heaven, “the nadir[3] of the cosmos,”[4] and the land where God is not. Hell itself is the preeminent symbol of evil, alienation, and despair. Is that really what Hell is like?

Heaven and Hell: two words that have captured the curiosity, imagination, and wonder of millions of people across several centuries. One of those words brings forth comfort and peace, an image of green pastures and still waters, hope and renewal, grace and eternal salvation, empathy and compassion. The other word subjugates fear, worry, devastation, darkness, despair, and a feeling of being at the lowest point—walking in the shadows of the valley of death. These two words have caught the attention of both religious and non-religious persons throughout the ages: asking what is heaven like and what is hell like? Even those who have chosen to believe in the words of Jesus Christ wonder about heaven and hell: asking what do I need to do to be in heaven and what do I need to do to avoid hell?

For the next few weeks, with the help of Alan W. Gomes, a professor of theology at Talbot School of Theology, we will be taking time to examine both Heaven and Hell from a biblical perspective. In his book, 40 Questions about Heaven and Hell, Gomes asks questions such as: “What should we conclude about those who claim to have seen heaven or hell?, What will the resurrected body be like?, What is hell like?, What is heaven like?, and How can a God of love send people to an eternal hell?” Most of us are familiar with the concepts of Heaven and Hell, but yet we still have questions. The time has come to examine a few of those questions as we explore the celestial sanctuary and dive into the abode of the unredeemed.

 

Body:

In 2014, when I graduated from High School, my kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Pearson, who is now retired, gave me a book written by Dr. Seuss. As a matter of fact, the book she gave me was the last book Dr. Seuss published during his lifetime, before his death on September 24, 1991, at the age of 87. The cover of the book showcases several colors in a ring-like pattern with some sort of abstract mountain in the middle of those rings with an individual standing on top of that mountain.

The book follows an unnamed protagonist—the leading character—on a journey through life’s adventures and challenges. The book portrays life as a journey filled with both positive and negative experiences, encouraging readers to embrace the full spectrum of emotions and situations. The protagonist is empowered to make their own decisions and choose their own path, highlighting the importance of taking responsibility for one’s life. The book also acknowledges that life will present challenges and setbacks, but it also emphasizes the importance of getting back up after falling and continuing to move forward.[5] Lastly, the book inspires readers to find their own unique path to success, regardless of the obstacles they face, and to believe in their own potential. Ultimately, the book highlights the importance of embracing new experiences, learning from failures, and believing in one’s own potential to overcome obstacles.

Do any of you know the title of the book I am talking about? It’s Oh, the Places You’ll Go. I was thinking about this book this past week as I was preparing this message: not so much the content and message it provides, but the title: Oh, the Places You’ll Go. Many of you have been many places in your life: you’ve travelled to different towns, different counties, different states, and some of you have travelled to different countries and continents. All of us have travelled in some degree during our life. Essentially, we have been to many different places.

Have you ever wondered about the many places Jesus travelled? For example, as a child Jesus was born in Bethlehem, travelled to Egypt, and then to Nazareth. During his ministry, Jesus travelled to places in Galilee: Bethsaida, Cana, Capernaum, and Nazareth. While travelling in the Judean region, Jesus travelled to Bethany, Jericho, and Jerusalem. He even travelled to regions that rejected him: Samaria, Sidon, and Tyre. It is said that Jesus also went to Damascus and Emmaus, and is now sitting at the right hand of God in heaven. In the words of Johnny Cash, Jesus by the end of his ministry was probably saying, “I’ve been everywhere, man. I’ve been everywhere.”[6]

During the time of Jesus, where he travelled was where he needed to go, specifically in the regions of Galilee and Judea. But today, because of his good news and the work of his disciples, Jesus has been everywhere. Jesus is omnipresent: in all places. Oh, the places Jesus went so that we could be here today. Did you know that scripture mentions an additional place upon which Jesus may or not have travelled? In just a few places, we read that Jesus travelled to “hell”, to “Hades”, to “prison” to preach the gospel. So the question we ask ourselves today is, “Did Jesus travel to hell and back from the time of his death to the moment he appeared outside the tomb?”

 

Movement One: What Scripture Says…

Let’s first begin with what scripture offers regarding this question by examining a passage that states that Jesus did not descend into hell. In Acts 2:27 and 31, Luke states, “For you will not abandon my soul to Hades or let your Holy One experience corruption…. Foreseeing this, David spoke of the resurrection of the Messiah, saying, ‘He was not abandoned to Hades, nor did his flesh experience corruption.’” Several weeks ago, when asking about hell, it was made very clear from scripture that hell is “where the beast and the false prophet were, and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever” (Revelation 20:10). Hell is the place where the corrupted, the sinful, go to experience the punishment of agonizing flames that never consume but continue to burn. So, for Luke, how can Jesus—someone incorruptible, someone perfect, someone without sin—end up in Hades? Luke does not have Jesus descending to hell.

Before his last breath, Jesus promised the criminal on the cross that “today, you will be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:39-43). Jesus didn’t tell the criminal tomorrow you will be with me in paradise. Jesus didn’t tell the criminal a few days from now you will be with me in paradise. And Jesus certainly didn’t tell the criminal that he will be with him in paradise once he returns from hell. Jesus said today. For Luke, Jesus going to hell rebuke’s his promise to the criminal and to all of us that Jesus is in paradise waiting for us whenever we are called home.

Moving on from Luke, we hear from Paul, who wrote to the people of Ephesus, “Therefore it is said, ‘When he ascended on high, he made captivity itself a captive; he gave gifts to his people.’ (When it says, ‘He ascended,’ what does it mean but that he had also descended into the lower parts of the earth? He who descended is the same one who ascended far above all the heavens, so that he might fill all things)” (Ephesians 4:8-10). Notice, that the portion about “descending into the lower parts of the earth” is in parentheses; so, it is appears this might be an afterthought, a later addition to the original text. Second, certain biblical commentators, ancient and modern, take the reference to Christ’s descent “into the lower parts” or “lower regions” as having a descent into hades in view. Paul is attempting to answer the very question that we are asking ourselves today to the people of Ephesus. For Paul, unlike Luke, Jesus did descend to hell. The same person that sits at the right hand of the Father, who ascended to heaven, is the same person, who after being crucified on the cross, descended into hell—the lower parts of the earth.

However, Paul doesn’t tell us why Jesus descended into the lower parts of the earth. Some believe that by Paul simply affirming the fact that Jesus went to hell suggests what Alan Gomes provides for his readers: by descending into hell, “Christ proclaimed victory over the hostile principalities and powers”[7] of the underworld. Therefore, suggesting that Christ is more powerful than sin and death and that Christ is the one who will “judge the living and the dead” (2 Timothy 4:1)[8] wherever they happen to be. So, for Paul, Jesus descending into hell proves Jesus’ authority and power over all things so that he “might fill all things.”

Our next scripture passage comes from 1 Peter 4:5-6. Peter, one of Jesus’ apostles, stated, “But they will have to give an accounting to him who stands ready to judge the living and the dead. For this is the reason the gospel was proclaimed even to the dead, so that, though they had been judged in the flesh as everyone is judged, they might live in the spirit as God does.” [9] Based upon this text, some have used this text to teach that Christ offered a “postmortem”—life after death—opportunity of salvation for unbelievers, either to those who never heard the gospel or to those who rejected it when alive.[10] Others see a reference to Old Testament believers, who were waiting for Christ to preach the gospel to them (i.e. the prophets).

Essentially, Peter is saying that Jesus descended into hell to proclaim the good news to those waiting for Jesus, to those who deserved a second chance, and to those who hadn’t heard the good news but needed to hear it. Jesus descended to hell to teach the people about himself and to hopefully grow the Kingdom of God. Peter could be drawing from the words of Matthew who wrote about the events that conspired after Jesus died on the cross: “At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. The earth shook, and the rocks were split. The tombs also were opened, and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised (Matthew 27:51-52).

Peter’s teaching of Jesus’ descent into hell goes against the words of Luke when Luke retells the parable of Lazarus and the Rich Man. Luke notes, “The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham’s side. The rich man also died and was buried. In Hades, where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his side. So he called to him, ‘Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.’ But Abraham replied, ‘…Between us and you a great [canyon] has been set in place, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us’” (Luke 16:22-24, 26). For Luke, those in hell remained in hell. They had their chance while living on this earth to seek redemption. Therefore, Jesus didn’t preach to those in hell nor did he bring others back from hell is how Luke sees this parable.

As you can tell, the Bible, much like us today, is torn on the issue of whether or not Jesus actually descended into hell after his death and before his resurrection. Luke is against Jesus’ descent, while Paul and Peter are in favor of Jesus’ descent. What are your thoughts? Whatever you believe, keep in mind that whether or not Jesus did go to hell is something to ponder but the meaning behind this discrepancy is the message that during those three days after his last breath, death could not stop him from finding ways to share the good news. Jesus was working on the cross, in the tomb, and while spending 50 days on this earth in his resurrected body. The question we should be asking ourselves at this point is, “How are we making sure that the good news is being shared with all people everywhere?”

 

Movement Two: The Apostle’s Creed…

Now, scripture isn’t the only place in which we hear of Jesus’ potential descent into hell. The Apostles’ Creed, written about 150 years after the apostles had all died, contains the phrase, “He descended into hell” or “He descended to the dead.” (Keep in mind, The Apostles’ Creed was not written by the apostles nor is found in the Bible.) The Apostles’ Creed is a foundational Christian statement of belief, summarizing core doctrines about God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit. It’s not a detailed theological treatise, but rather a concise declaration of faith used in worship and instruction. The Apostles’ Creed is structured around the Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) and key events in the life, death, and resurrection n of Jesus. The Apostles’’ Creed is as follows:

I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of heaven and earth.

I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord,

who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary,

suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried;

he descended to the dead.

On the third day he rose again;

he ascended into heaven, is seated at the right hand of the Father,

and will come again to judge the living and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic (or universal) church,

the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins,

the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.[11]

When The Apostles’ Creed says that Jesus “descended to the dead,” the idea, according to Adam Hamilton, is that “Jesus experienced what we experience when we die”[12] a period of waiting. The church also came to believe that Jesus, during his time between his death and resurrection, offered salvation to those in death’s clutches since the beginning of the world. Therefore, Jesus’ actions during that time are referred to as the “harrowing of hell” notes Hamilton.[13] This triumphant event is often captured in icons that show Jesus tearing the gates of hell off their hinges in order to release the righteous dead from Sheol or Hades. Jesus is often portrayed holding Adam and Eve by the wrist and pulling them out of hell and to heaven. This image could also shed light on why, from our scripture passage, Jesus mentions Noah, who died before Jesus died on the cross; therefore, giving hope to already fallen believers.

I like what Hamilton says about the phrase “descended to the dead.” He stated in his book, Creed: What Christians Believe and Why, Exploring the Apostles’ Creed, “I think there is great power in the image of Christ descending to the realm of the dead, tearing the doors off their hinges, and offering salvation and life to those who had died from the beginning of the human race up until his time. In this image, Christ is seen as triumphantly defeating death itself.”[14] As Revelation 1:18 asserts, “I have the keys of death and the grave.” This phrase suggests that Jesus has the power over death and that he will do whatever he needs to do to rescue those from the “valley of the shadow of death” (Psalm 23:4)., to bring them to salvation. There is power in the decisions of Jesus.

So, even outside of scripture, we read of Jesus descending to the dead. And like scripture, how one interprets the idea of Jesus descending to hell or not is up to them. However, no matter how one interprets this idea, we must remember that Jesus is more powerful than death: “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death is your sting?” (1 Corinthians 15:55).

 

Movement Three: A Closer Examination of 1 Peter 3:18-22

Returning to our scripture passage for the day, we hear from the words of Peter, again, of Jesus’ descent to hell or “prison.” Peter wrote, “For Christ also suffered for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, in order to bring you to God. He was put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit, in which also he went and made a proclamation to the spirits in prison, who in former times did not obey, when God waited patiently in the days of Noah, during the building of the ark, in which a few, that is, eight lives, were saved through water. And baptism, which this prefigured, now saves you—not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers made subject to him” (1 Peter 3:18-22). Let’s break this text down:

First Peter 3:18 states that Christ suffered for our sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring us to God. Christ’s suffering leads us to victory: to salvation. Verses 19-20 refer to Christ’s preaching to “spirits in prison.” There are various interpretations of this. First, Jesus, after his death but before his resurrection, descended into hell and preached to those who had died in the flood during Noah’s time. There are several variations of this view, but generally speaking it holds that Jesus descended into hell. This is likely the most common view among Christians because it’s been somewhat popularized. There’s even a music video out there that shows Jesus descending into hell after he died and fighting Satan in a boxing ring. He beats Satan, and then is raised back to life. Obviously it didn’t happen like that at all. But, is this view possible? Yes. It’s possible. Second, Jesus, after his death but before his resurrection, descended into hell and preached to fallen angels. Ok? So, this view still holds that he went to hell, the place of the dead, but specifically to proclaim judgment upon fallen angels.

Keep in mind, Jesus did not preach the gospel to these spirits or these human beings to give them a chance to repent and believe. There is no biblical evidence for that. Whether these spirits are those who died from the flood, or fallen angels sent to hell before Judgment Day—either way, if this one or both of these views is true, Jesus proclaimed judgment over them. He didn’t preach the gospel and offer a chance for repentance. He proclaimed defeat for them. In other words, if one or both of these views is correct, Jesus proclaimed the Truth to them. Period. The very truth Pontius Pilate asked about before Jesus was turned over to the people (John 18:38).[15]

The third option is Jesus did not descend into Hell. Jesus preached in the Spirit through Noah. I think this is what Peter is getting at. Jesus was put to death in the flesh, verse 18, but made alive in the spirit, in which he went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison because they formerly did not obey, when God’s patience waited in the days of Noah. Basically, Noah proclaimed repentance to all the people before the flood came. But they didn’t obey, which is why only eight were spared. That was Noah and his wife, and Noah’s three sons and their wives. Needless to say, some interpret this passage to mean that Jesus did not descend into hell but that his spirit spoke through Noah, who basically said that because you didn’t listen to me the first time, you are stuck here for eternity.

The key point is that Christ’s preaching signifies his victory over all powers and dominions. Just as God delivered Noah and his family through the ark, He can deliver believers who suffer for righteousness. This highlights the theme of God’s faithfulness and deliverance amidst suffering. The overarching context of 1 Peter 3:18-22 is to encourage believers to endure suffering for doing good. Christ’s example, and the example of Noah, demonstrates that suffering for righteousness is not in vain but leads to ultimate victory and deliverance.

 

Movement Four: Jesus Travels for You…

The next question we have to ask ourselves based upon the idea of Jesus descending to hell or not is, “What does this mean for us today?” Whether you believe that Jesus descended to hell or not, there is a powerful message to what Luke, Paul, Peter, and The Apostles’ Creed is hinting at. The message is: Jesus is willing to do whatever it takes to help you believe in him so that you can be saved. Jesus travelled to many places for you. Jesus embraced ridicule and harassment for you. Jesus was mocked for you. Jesus entered towns and villages that despised him for you. Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey receiving praise but knowing the end was near for him for you. Jesus was beaten and tortured and wounded for you. Jesus died on the cross for you. Jesus left an empty tomb for you. Jesus was resurrected for you. And Jesus may or may not have travelled to hell and back for you. Jesus is willing to do whatever it takes to get you to believe in him. Jesus is willing to go wherever to make sure you trust him. Jesus is willing to pave multiple paths so that you don’t get lost but retain your faith in him. Jesus is willing to do whatever he can, as often as he can, in as many places as he can, whenever he can, for you. If Jesus is willing to do all these things and so much more for you, then I have to ask you, “What are you willing to do for Jesus?”

I have noticed that we ask a lot of Jesus. For example: Jesus can you get me through the day; Jesus can you help me with this upcoming test; Jesus can you bring healing and comfort upon so-and-so; Jesus can you give me a sign that everything will be okay; Jesus can you take away this pain; Jesus can you grant me just a little bit of peace right now; Jesus, I need a more time; Jesus will you watch over so-and-so and remind them that they aren’t alone; Jesus is there a way you can end all battles, conflicts, and wars; and the list goes on and on and on. We ask a lot of Jesus, and Jesus will continue to do all that he can for us as he hears and answers our prayers. But maybe the idea of Jesus descending to hell is our chance to ask Jesus, “Jesus, what can I do for you? You have gone above and beyond for me—even when I didn’t feel worthy enough to have you in my life. What can I do for you?”

Have you ever asked Jesus what you can do for him? Have you ever listened to what he was telling you or inviting you to do? I’m sure most of you here have heard Jesus calling you, have had Jesus lay something upon your heart that he wanted or wants you to do. Maybe, he is telling you to trust him as you embark on a new path. Maybe, he is telling you try something new, to take a leap of faith. Maybe, there is something in your life that you have continually put off and now he wants you to stop making excuses and do that thing. Maybe, he has been inviting you to find ways to invest more in the church. Maybe, Jesus needs our church to do something for him that will not only benefit those here but also those in the community. Maybe, Jesus needs all of us to take a leap of faith for him—do something new, make investments, take risks—so that the good news finds ways to meet people where they are. I know many of you have taken many risks and invested so much into this church. As a pastor, it makes me proud knowing that you all give to the church in some way. I know some of you have worked—and continue to work—behind the scenes doing things and getting things for the church that people stop and ask, “Where did this come from? Who got this for the church?” and you say nothing. But let me tell you, I notice; and it brings joy to my heart when things are done in the church by you. Sometimes, the best way to exemplify our faith is not to tell Jesus what we want but to ask Jesus what he needs, what our church needs.

In a way, we need to consider the statement from former President John F. Kennedy when he demanded of this nation in his inaugural address from 1961, “Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.” Church, friends, children of God, Jesus descending to hell and returning for our sake provides us with the reality that, yes, we are called to seek Jesus whenever and wherever we need him—don’t stop leaning on Jesus—but it is also our Christian obligation to not always ask Jesus what he can do for us but what we can do for Jesus. If Jesus is willing to travel to hell and back—to preach the gospel, to prove his triumph over death and his power over hell for us—then what are we willing to do for Jesus? Where are we willing to go to share the gospel? What can you do make sure you remain a volunteer for Jesus, doing what he needs you to do today and not wait until tomorrow?

 

Conclusion…

To bring this message to a close, I return to the book I was given when I graduated from High School in 2014. Oh, the Places You’ll Go sits on my bookshelf as a reminder that life is always moving—coming and going—with ups and downs and moments of waiting. I never really know where I am going or the places I will end up or even the successes and failures I will endure. But what I do know is that no matter where I go, Jesus has already been there and is still there. No matter what happens in my life, I know that Jesus went through so much so that I can be the best person I can be for those in my life. He went to places that I don’t want to go to assure my salvation. He died on the cross for my sins. He endured pain and torture to symbolize the importance of unconditional love. Jesus, like many of you, has done so much for me. Now it is my turn—our turn—to do so much for Jesus: to go where Jesus needs us to go and to do what Jesus needs us to do.

Did Jesus really descend into hell? I don’t know. Did Jesus bring people back from hell, if he went to hell? I don’t know. What did Jesus really do from the time he was crucified until the time he was resurrected three days later? I don’t know. However, what I do know is that whatever he did, he did for all of us. His power reigns. His authority is true. And his love is for all. What are you willing to do for Jesus? What does Jesus need you to do for him? Where are you willing to go for Jesus? What is Jesus laying upon your heart today?

In the words of Dr. Seuss, “[You’re] off to Great Places! Today is your day… So get on your way!”[16] Get on your way doing things for Jesus! Let it be so…

 

Holy Communion (transition)

 

Closing Prayer:

Let us Pray… Dear Jesus, you have answered our prayers, you have gone to many places, and you have done many things for our sake. We have been blessed by all that you have done for us. So, now we what want to do something for you. Guide our heart and mind in such a way that motivates us to do your will on this earth today and always. In your name we pray, Amen.

 

Benediction:

Jesus has done many things for you. Jesus has gone to many places for you. Jesus has been through life, death, and resurrection for you. You have been blessed! This week, thank Jesus for all that he has done for and in return ask Jesus what you can do for him. May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; and May the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace (Numbers 6:24-26). In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit go forth living as if heaven is in your heart today. And all God’s people said, Amen. Amen. Amen.

 

 

[1] Ethereal: extremely delicate and light in a way that seems too perfect for this world.

[2] Carol Zaleski, “Hell,” Britannica Online, updated 16 May 2025 and accessed 28 May 2025: https://www.britannica.com/topic/hell/Greece-and-Rome

[3] Nadir: the lowest point in the fortunes of a person or organization

[4] Carol Zaleski, “Hell,” Britannica Online, updated 16 May 2025 and accessed 28 May 2025: https://www.britannica.com/topic/hell/Greece-and-Rome

[5] A notable section of the book depicts “The Waiting Place,” a metaphorical space where people procrastinate and wait for things to happen instead of actively pursuing their goals.

[6] “I’ve Been Everywhere” is a song written by Australian country singer Geoff Mack in 1959, and popularized by Lucky Starr and Hank snow in 1962. Johnny Cash further popularized the song 1996 with Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. (https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-country/flashback-ive-been-everywhere-puts-hank-snow-johnny-cash-on-the-map-666807/)

[7] Alan W. Gomes (edited by Benjamin L. Merkle), 40 Questions About Heaven and Hell, Grand Rapids, Michigan: Kregel Publications, 2018, pg. 357.

[8] “In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I solemnly urge you: proclaim the message; be persistent whether the time is favorable or unfavorable; convince, rebuke, and encourage with the utmost patience in teaching” (2 Timothy 4:1-2).

[9] As cited above, Timothy is also recorded offering the same sentiment in his epistle—letter—about Jesus judging the living and the dead (2 Timothy 4:1).

[10] Alan W. Gomes (edited by Benjamin L. Merkle), 40 Questions About Heaven and Hell, Grand Rapids, Michigan: Kregel Publications, 2018, pg. 358.

[11] Ecumenical Version: https://www.umc.org/en/content/apostles-creed-traditional-ecumenical

[12] Adam Hamilton, Creed: What Christians Believe and Why, Exploring the Apostles’ Creed, Nashville, Tennessee: The United Methodist Publishing House, 2017, pg. 69.

[13] Adam Hamilton, Creed: What Christians Believe and Why, Exploring the Apostles’ Creed, Nashville, Tennessee: The United Methodist Publishing House, 2017, pg. 69.

[14] Adam Hamilton, Creed: What Christians Believe and Why, Exploring the Apostles’ Creed, Nashville, Tennessee: The United Methodist Publishing House, 2017, pg. 70.

[15] 2 Peter 2:4-5: “For if God did not spare angels when they sinned, but cast them into hell and committed them to chains of gloomy darkness to be kept until the judgment; if he did not spare the ancient world, but preserved Noah, a herald of righteousness, with seven others, when he brought a flood upon the world of the ungodly…”

[16] Dr. Seuss, Oh, the Places You’ll Go, New York City, New York: Random House Publishing, 1990.