The Unpopular JesusSample

It is unpopular to talk about both heaven and hell

How often did Jesus speak of heaven and the kingdom of heaven? Most people are excited about heaven and believe in it. And yet, how soon those same people are offended by the concept of hell? Some people who find it easy to believe in God when the Bible speaks of heaven find it hard to believe that a God of love will send people to hell. A careful study of Jesus' words in the New Testament makes it clear that He spoke more about hell (the broad road) than heaven. Why? To point people to its reality and warn against it (John 3:36).

In many churches, some people are offended when someone talks about hell. "No," is the request, "talk to us about Jesus and the love of Jesus and his gentleness and His care. We live in a modern age, after all. Now is not the time to make demands on people, give people orders, or warn about hell." There are even church leaders who don't talk about Jesus in their preaching — oh yes, no problem talking about God — but people are going to "be offended when we talk about Jesus and his cross — it's too bloody."

Yet the same Bible that speaks of heaven also speaks of hell. If we want to believe one, we must also accept the other (Matt.10:28). God does not change to meet the demands of men, nor for modern humans.

As long as Jesus gives us eternal life, makes life beautiful and gives abundance, Jesus is popular, and it is popular to be a Christian. When we join a "nice" church and can be a Christian among our own people, then it is great. When we are saved and can contribute to those in need (a T-shirt or a few cans of food), Jesus is popular. But when Jesus asks us to talk to the unsaved about salvation, winning souls, loving outside of our language and culture preference, and even worshipping with them, many are offended.

Spiritual freedom, joy and victory come when only Jesus remains, and He is enough for us.