Teaching Tip of the Week
2/15/99
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Do Children Need To Know About Hell?
If you wish to be honest with the children about the consequences of sin, you must tell them
about Hell.
“Hell” is a word most Christians seen uncomfortable with, perhaps in part because it is sometimes
used to curse, but probably mostly because because of the world’s attempt to make Christians feel
guilty of being “judgemental” with the mere mention of Hell. Be assured that you won’t damage a
child for life psychologically for teaching them that there is a real place called Hell.
When teaching about Hell, do it in a manner that demonstrates that both you and God are concerned that they don’t end up there. Jesus loves sinners most of all and He talked more about Hell than
about Heaven. Some points to bring out:
- Just as the best part of Heaven is being with God, the worst part of Hell is separation
from God.
- God does not want you to go there. In fact, He wants to keep you from there so much that He
was willing to pay the price Himself to save you.
- Hell is a terrible place – you don’t want to go there either! Jesus described it in
very graphic terms (see Mark 9:44 and Matthew 8:12) to leave no doubt that there is no reason to
desire to be there.
Just as you would warn someone (especially someone you love) of terrible consequences to certain
actions, when you talk to the children of Hell, don’t speak flippantly or angrily but tell them
in a caring way that also carries a sense of urgency.
Back to The Teaching Tip of the Week.