The Kingdom of God, Student Workbook, SW02

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T H E K I N G D O M O F G O D

2. The judgment will be irreversible, as is evident in Luke 16.19-31.

3. Note the terrifying reality of finality associated with this judgment in Matthew 25:41.

4. The doctrine of annihilationism

a. This view suggests that although not everyone is saved (called “universalism”), the unrighteous will be destroyed, annihilated; they do not exist forever.

b. It holds that the wicked simply cease to exist, while the righteous continue to enjoy God’s endless blessing.

c. While this view is enjoying some popularity now, we must grapple with the language associated with the judgment given in Scripture, speaking of its unending nature.

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(1) The judgment is associated with “unquenchable fire,” Mark 9.48.

(2) With everlasting burning, Matt. 25.41

(3) With everlasting contempt, Dan. 12.2

(4) With eternal destruction, 2 Thess. 1.9

(5) With everlasting torment, Rev. 14.11

(6) With everlasting punishment, Matt. 25.46