Questions & Answers

Harold S. Paisley

Question: Is it scriptural to speak of a literal Hell of fire?

Answer: It is indeed true that Hell is a literal place of fire. We believe this solemn truth because we believe God’s holy word. If one believes the Bible to be true and the words of the Lord Jesus as recorded therein to be true, then he must believe in a literal Hell of which the Son of God warned when He said “Where their worm dieth not and the fire is not quenched” (Mark 9:46-48). Hell is eternal as is heaven. Everlasting life is promised to all who believe in the Lord Jesus alone as Saviour. All others will go to everlasting fire. John 3:16 promises everlasting life but Matthew 25:41, everlasting fire.

Such vital matters will introduce solemnity into gospel preaching and yet softness of spirit in presenting God’s provision for all who believe and God’s judgment upon all who die unforgiven.

These serious truths must be spoken faithfully but with feeling lest any listening would perish in Hell fire.

Question: I have been very interested in comparing the presentation of the Lord Jesus in the four gospels. Could what is found in the closing portions of the respective gospels be given some research and application?

Answer: We are fully assured that there is very much in the presentation of Christ in the four gospels in which are manifested divine perfections and distinctive beauties of the blessed Lord. We appreciate young believers who have spiritual desires to explore the inexhaustible depths of the things concerning Himself. Regarding the closing of each gospel, it is remarkable to observe the Holy Spirit’s guidance in the striking order observed. At the close of Matthew’s gospel, we read of the Victorious Resurrection of Christ (Matt. 28:1-8). At the close of Mark’s gospel, we read of the Visible Ascension of Christ (Mark 16:9). At the close of Luke, we read of the Valid Promise of Christ to send the promise of the Father, the presence of the Holy Spirit (Luke 24:49). While at the close of John’s gospel, we read of the Veritable Return of the Lord (John 21:23). In light of these precious truths, may we study His word more diligently and follow His steps more carefully.

Question: Two features are prominently mentioned in the commands and directions given for the Lord’s Supper. Could some explanation be given on these, viz: Remembrance and Proclamation?

Answer: The will of the Lord Jesus Christ, in the matter of the Supper which He instituted in the evening before His death, is clearly set forth for us in the records of the four gospels.

Luke records His words “in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:19). Paul likewise, when given instructions from the risen Lord from heaven, states that truth of remembrance. The person of the Lord Jesus as He was down here in lowly grace, but now exalted in eternal glory, is to engage the thoughts and affections of the heart. Paul also uses the word “proclaim.” The word is not to set forth. The acts of partaking are a proclamation not a representation. We proclaim as a message that our blessed Lord died for us. Thus we sing: