Why is hell eternal?

First Echelon said:

I mean that no human is constant.

No human can stand by one thing to the end of time.

Do you not think that after so long of suffering this soul would eventually truly and completely wish to repent with all of its being?

Does this eventual purity truly deserve a continuation of its suffering?

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Well, you have to think about it in context somewhat. The soul has had its chance to repent, and it chose not to. Also, a repentence under suffering and torture is never a true one, it is merely regret that they made the wrong decission while the decission was still theirs!

First Echelon said:

Your metaphors are far too ambigous to be straightforward.

To say that eternal damnation is just is to deny choice.

Forever means forever, and humans change, but eternity does not.

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Please point out what is ambiguous, and I'd be pleased to clarify. But on what basis do you feel we have choice, especially when we had nothing to do with our own existence? The dependece may be distasteful to some, but the question isn't whether hell is tasteful, but if it is true.

I did not understand God's time table.

I say that we have choice because it is true beyond a doubt that we choose what we do, no matter if it is decided beforehand.

First Echelon said:

I did not understand God's time table.

I say that we have choice because it is true beyond a doubt that we choose what we do, no matter if it is decided beforehand.

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Do you mean you're not sure why God would want it to last forever?

You're right- our actions are a fruit of our choices. As we choose to seek God in accordance with the grace He has given us, we receive more grace and are empowered by His Holy Spirit to achieve the rightesouness that comes by grace through faith. But many reject this grace-a choice. Very good point.

I almost forgot to add, though, that the judgment is God's choice as Sovereign of the universe. It's a cooperation between Him and us. We ultimately get what we want, even if it is separation from God. Although Jesus does mention that some will want to overcome when it is too late.

But with this doctrine, it is so important to remeber the promises of God, too, so we don't get the wrong impression.

His wrath is eternal, but so is His reward, and He promises to reward everyone who diligently seeks Him.