Hell Must Be Empty

When Jesus tells us in the Sermon on the Mount that we ought to be nonviolent in the face of violence (Matt. 5:39-40/Luke 6:29) isnt it because God is a long-time pacifist? When Jesus tells us we ought to be generous and give to everyone (Matt. 5:42/Luke 6:30) isnt it because Gods personal policy on giving is open and generous? When Jesus tells us to love everybody, even those who dont reciprocate (Matt. 5:44/ Luke 6:27-28) isnt it because Gods style of loving is unconditional and universal? When Jesus tells us to show mercy and compassion to all (Matt. 5:48/Luke 6:36) isnt it because Gods compassion and mercy is boundless? When Jesus tells us to forgive without limit (Matt. 6:14-15/Luke 6:37) isnt it intended as an appropriate response to Gods infinite forgiveness? When Jesus tells us to refrain from judging others (Matt. 7:3-5/Luke 6:41-42) isnt the implication that God is not, and never has been, in the judgment business? Surely God operates by the same standards of behavior that Shes set out for us.

Can a woman forget her nursing child, or show no compassion for the child of her womb? Even these may forget, yet I wont forget you. (Deutero-Isaiah 49:15) You see these nursing babies? They are like those who enter Gods kingdom. (Gospel of Thomas 22:22)

A publication of the Mennonite Universalist Association Tract & Propaganda Department. Written by Charlie Kraybill on behalf of the Mennonite Universalist Association. Visit the Mennonite Universalist Association Facebook page, and like us. Revised: January 21, 2013.