Hell Preaching

            Before I continue this series on atheism, I'll say a little something on evangelism. 

While the doctrine of Christianity is not rooted in fear, some spread the Gospel using it. 

Many Christians today think this is not the right path to take. In Philipians 1:15-18, Paul 

writes about people who spread the Gospel using questionable methods:

            (15) “Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will:

            (16) “The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction 

to my bonds:

            (17) “But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defense of the gospel.

            (18) “What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ 

is preached; and in this I rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.” (KJV)

            Even in the early church, Paul had to deal with people with questionable motives 

and tactics. What does he say? “Whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is preached… I 

rejoice.” (18) However the Gospel is preached, God can work.

            I agree with those who say that motives used in the past won’t be as useful. Fire-

and-brimstone preaching just doesn’t have the same effect it did in Spurgeon's day.

            On the other hand, the fact that this method of evangelization has "worked" is 

undeniable. “Hell preaching” has saved countless people. God’s wrath is to be feared. It is 

truly awe-inspiring (read some of the Psalms on God's wrath). Many have acknowledged 

the Creator of Heaven and Hell by learning about Hell.

            I just wouldn’t advise evangelism that is focused on Hell. We are to love Christ, so 

let’s tell others about Him (with Hell not being as important as Jesus).