THE WRATH OF GOD

We recognize that false teachers have often used fear as a method to control their followers. We should fear no man, for no man can separate us from the love of God (Rom. 8: 38).

On the other hand, we need to have a healthy fear of God to fulfill the command: "Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling" (Phil. 2:12).

Unfortunately, many are now teaching that there is no such thing as punishment in hell. This does not change reality, and this misperception will cost souls. It is difficult to imagine anyone in heaven who does not have the proper understanding of hell.

Consider the following scriptures that clearly show that God will exercise His wrath:

"He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him" (Jn. 3:36).

"For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience" (Col. 3:6).

"The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb" (Rev. 14:10).

"And the angel thrust in his sickle into the earth, and gathered the vine of the earth, and cast it into the great winepress of the wrath of God" (Rev. 14:19).

"It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God" (Heb 10:31).

These should be sufficient to motivate us away from sin. However, the presence of fear is not sufficient -- we must act upon it and through obedience and faithfulness turn it into boldness (Heb. 4:16).