READING: Zechariah 9-12, Revelation 20
“This is the second death, the lake of fire.”
Revelation 20:14
I still remember the movie, even though I first saw it when I was a teenager. It was called, “The Burning Hell,” and it was a dramatic, graphic, agonizing portrayal of hell as only a 1970s Christian film could do it. As I recall, the cinematography was not good. I don’t remember much of a plot. I do remember preachers painting the picture of hell and helping their listeners to understand just how long eternal judgment will be. Looking back, I’m sure I’d see the movie today as cheesy, if not emotionally manipulative.
On the other hand, I can’t ignore the words of today’s New Testament reading: “And if anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire” (Rev. 20:15). All who had not turned from sin and trusted Christ for salvation – that is, whose names were not in the book of life – would suffer in the lake of fire eternally. Their deeds would condemn them forever.
Thus, I’m reminded that whatever hell is like, it will be much worse than anything Hollywood can create to describe it. The devil will be tormented there “day and night forever and ever” (Rev. 20:10), but so will those who do not know Jesus. That truth ought to break our hearts.
ACTION STEPS:
- Read Revelation 20 again and consider the reality of coming judgment.
- If you are not yet a follower of Jesus, turn to Him today. Talk to Him about walking away from your sin and trusting Him—and then share your decision with someone.
PRAYER: “God, I pray for those I know who are right now destined for eternal hell. Please draw them to you today.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Zechariah 13-14, Revelation 21
