In most conversations about universal reconciliation, a handful of verses are frequently cited as proof texts for the existence of an eternal hell. However, in this article, we aim to provide an alternative understanding of these verses from a universalist perspective. It is important to note that different universalists may interpret these verses in varying ways, and this article presents my understanding of these verses, based on the Bible, the Greek text, and the beliefs of some of the greatest church fathers. While this is not an exhaustive exegesis of each verse, it offers a concise overview to challenge prevailing notions of eternal punishment and encourage deeper exploration of these scriptural passages.
[Read more…] about The most common hell verses explained from a biblical universalist perspective
Poem: God’s restorative justice
In this poem, I put into words my deep belief in God’s restorative justice. His judgment is driven by love, refining us through fire (metaphorically speaking; not literal flames!) and bringing forth our true selves. I acknowledge the painful yet transformative process of His justice, ultimately leading to restoration and wholeness. Through refining fire and the unveiling of truth, His justice will reconcile all things and lead every heart to authentic repentance and salvation without violence or manipulation.
[Read more…] about Poem: God’s restorative justice
Book Summary: “Universalism: The Prevailing Doctrine of the Christian Church During its First Five Hundred Years.”
Thought you guys might enjoy this summary of miscellaneous points I did several years ago from J.W. Hanson’s classic book “Universalism: The Prevailing Doctrine of the Christian Church During its First Five Hundred Years.”
[Read more…] about Book Summary: “Universalism: The Prevailing Doctrine of the Christian Church During its First Five Hundred Years.”
Jesus rejecting deniers, sinners who can’t enter the kingdom and universal reconciliation
“But whoever denies me before people, I will deny him also before my Father in heaven.” (Mt 10:33, NET) “Those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God!” (Gal 5:21, NET) In this article, I’ll answer how verses like this fit together with the belief that God will reconcile the whole cosmos.
[Read more…] about Jesus rejecting deniers, sinners who can’t enter the kingdom and universal reconciliation
God wants to save everyone, and he can, so he will.
Some Christians (e.g., Calvinists) believe that God doesn’t want to save everyone. Some (e.g., Arminians) believe that God can’t save everyone. In this article, I argue from the Bible that God wants to save everyone, that he can save everyone, and that therefore he will save everyone.
[Read more…] about God wants to save everyone, and he can, so he will.
FAQ about Universal Reconciliation
What is universal reconciliation? Is universal reconciliation biblical? Why did Jesus have to die if all people will be saved? Why missions if there is no hell at all? What is the gospel, if it is not salvation from hell? Here you will find short and concise answers to these and many other questions about universal reconciliation.
[Read more…] about FAQ about Universal Reconciliation
Quotes About Universal Reconciliation
This article contains a collection of quotes about universal reconciliation. It is a work in progress. New quotes will be added from time to time.
[Read more…] about Quotes About Universal Reconciliation
Was the Doctrine of Universal Reconciliation the Dominant Belief of the Early Christians?
Sometimes I hear people say that the idea of God saving everyone (The Victorious Gospel) is a rather modern idea. Nothing could be further from the truth. Actually, the Victorious Gospel was not only a doctrine a few exotic believers held but it was taught at most theological schools in the first five centuries.
[Read more…] about Was the Doctrine of Universal Reconciliation the Dominant Belief of the Early Christians?