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What About Those Who Never Heard About God or Have Heard In a Cursory Manner?

Introduction to the Unevangelized


In addressing the question of what happens to those who have never heard about God or have only heard in a cursory manner, it is crucial to explore the biblical basis for understanding God's justice and mercy. Many grapple with the notion of eternal punishment for individuals who never had the opportunity to know God. This article seeks to provide a thorough biblical explanation, adhering to the Historical-Grammatical method of interpretation and considering the literal Bible chronology.



The Hope of Resurrection


The hope of resurrection is central to understanding God's plan for both the righteous and the unrighteous. As stated in Acts 24:15, "having a hope in God, which hope these men await, that there is going to be a resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous." This verse sets the stage for examining the fate of those who never had the chance to hear the gospel.


The Righteous

The righteous include individuals like Noah, Sarah, and Abraham, who lived in faithfulness to God. Genesis 6:9 describes Noah as "a righteous man, blameless in his generation. Noah walked with God." Similarly, Hebrews 11:11 commends Sarah's faith, and James 2:21 highlights Abraham's righteousness through his actions.


The Unrighteous

The unrighteous, on the other hand, are those who did not meet God's standards but lacked the opportunity to learn and follow them. These individuals are distinguished from the wicked, who actively rejected God's commands. God's foreknowledge plays a pivotal role here, as He knows how each person would have responded if they had been given the opportunity to hear and accept the gospel.



The Nature of God's Foreknowledge


Understanding God's foreknowledge helps clarify the distinction between predestination and divine omniscience. God’s foreknowledge does not causally determine human choices; rather, it is an infallible knowledge of future events. As stated, "God foreknows the event because it will happen, even though the foreknowledge is chronologically prior to the event." This understanding upholds human free will while acknowledging God's perfect knowledge.


Addressing Eternal Punishment


The notion of eternal punishment for those who never heard the gospel is widely debated. Some argue that it is unjust for God to condemn individuals who were never evangelized. Scripturally, the concept of hellfire as eternal torment is not supported. The Bible describes death as a state of sleep, awaiting resurrection.


Sheol, Hades, and Gehenna

The terms Sheol and Hades refer to the common grave of humanity, not a place of eternal torment. Ecclesiastes 9:10 states, "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might, for there is no work or thought or knowledge or wisdom in Sheol, to which you are going." Gehenna, historically a garbage dump outside Jerusalem, symbolized eternal destruction rather than perpetual suffering.


Salvation and Baptism


The assertion that baptism is necessary for salvation, as proposed by some traditions, is not a biblical teaching. John 3:5, often cited to support this view, must be understood in its broader context. The requirement for salvation is faith in Christ, as emphasized in numerous passages, including John 3:16, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life."


The Promise of Resurrection


Jesus' promise to the criminal on the cross illustrates the hope of resurrection for the unrighteous. In Luke 23:39-43, Jesus assures the repentant criminal, "Truly I say to you today, you will be with me in Paradise." This promise does not imply entrance to heaven but a future resurrection in a restored earthly paradise.


Resurrection of the Unrighteous

Acts 24:15 explicitly mentions the resurrection of the unrighteous, those who died without knowing God's will. This resurrection provides them with an opportunity to learn and follow God's commandments during Christ's thousand-year reign. Revelation 20:4-6 describes this period, where resurrected individuals will be taught and judged based on their post-resurrection actions.



The Judgment After Resurrection


Romans 6:7 indicates that death absolves individuals from their sins, "for he who has died is freed from sin." The unrighteous, resurrected in the future, will be judged based on their deeds after their resurrection, not their previous ignorance. Revelation 20:12-13 speaks of symbolic scrolls that will be opened, revealing God's laws and standards by which the resurrected will be judged.


The Misconception of Hellfire


The doctrine of hellfire as eternal punishment conflicts with the biblical portrayal of God's justice and love. Many Scriptures affirm that the penalty for sin is death, not eternal torment. Genesis 2:17, Ezekiel 18:4, and Romans 6:23 consistently teach that death is the consequence of sin.


Eternal Destruction, Not Eternal Torment

2 Thessalonians 1:9 clarifies that the wicked will face "eternal destruction, from before the Lord and from the glory of his strength," not eternal suffering. This aligns with the understanding that God's justice involves permanent removal from life rather than perpetual agony.


God's Impartiality and Justice


God's impartiality ensures that every individual is judged fairly. Acts 10:34-35 emphasizes that "God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears him and works righteousness is acceptable to him." This principle underscores God's just and equitable treatment of all humanity, regardless of their exposure to the gospel during their lifetime.


The Example of Nineveh

The story of Nineveh, as recounted in the book of Jonah, exemplifies God's willingness to forgive and spare those who repent. Despite their initial ignorance of God's will, the Ninevites' repentance led to their deliverance from impending judgment. This narrative supports the concept that God judges individuals based on their response to His revealed will.



The Scope of Evangelism


Matthew 24:14 underscores the global scope of evangelism, "And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed in all the inhabited earth as a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come." This verse highlights the importance of spreading the gospel to all corners of the earth, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to hear and respond to God's message.


The Role of Christians

Christians are entrusted with the responsibility of evangelizing, as seen in the Great Commission. Matthew 28:19-20 instructs believers, "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you." This mission reflects God's desire for all people to come to the knowledge of the truth.


The Assurance of God's Justice


Ultimately, the Bible assures us that God's justice will prevail. Psalm 33:5 declares, "He loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of the steadfast love of the Lord." This assurance comforts believers, knowing that God will judge all individuals with perfect fairness and compassion.


The Future Restoration

The future restoration of the earth, as prophesied in Isaiah 65:17, promises a renewed creation where righteousness dwells. This vision includes the resurrection of the righteous and the unrighteous, who will have the opportunity to live in harmony with God's will.



The Role of Jesus Christ


Jesus Christ, as the central figure in God's plan of salvation, ensures that all individuals have the opportunity for redemption. John 14:6 affirms, "Jesus said to him, 'I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'" This statement underscores the necessity of faith in Christ for salvation.


The Intercessory Work of Christ

Christ's intercessory work, described in Hebrews 7:25, guarantees that He "is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them." This ongoing intercession reflects Christ's commitment to the salvation of all who seek Him.


The Comprehensive Nature of God's Plan


Understanding the fate of those who never heard about God or only heard in a cursory manner requires an examination of various biblical teachings and principles. God's justice, mercy, and impartiality ensure that all individuals are judged fairly. The promise of resurrection provides hope for both the righteous and the unrighteous, offering them the opportunity to learn and follow God's commandments.


God's Foreknowledge and Human Free Will


God's foreknowledge is a crucial aspect of His divine nature, enabling Him to know all future events without determining them. This distinction preserves human free will and accountability. The Bible illustrates this concept through numerous examples, such as God's knowledge of future events in Isaiah 46:10, "declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose.'"


The Example of Pharaoh

The story of Pharaoh in Exodus provides insight into how God's foreknowledge interacts with human free will. God foreknew Pharaoh's stubbornness, yet Pharaoh's decisions were his own. Exodus 9:12 states, "But the Lord hardened the heart of Pharaoh, and he did not listen to them, as the Lord had spoken to Moses." This hardening was a judicial response to Pharaoh's prior actions and decisions.


The Justice of God


God's justice ensures that individuals who never had the opportunity to hear the gospel will not be unfairly condemned. Romans 2:12-16 explains that those without the law will be judged by their conscience, "For when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do what the law requires, they are a law to themselves, even though they do not have the law." This passage highlights the principle that God's judgment is based on one's response to the knowledge they have received.


The Law Written on Hearts

Romans 2:15 elaborates on the concept of the law written on hearts, "They show that the work of the law is written on their hearts, while their conscience also bears witness, and their conflicting thoughts accuse or even excuse them." This internal moral compass reflects God's justice, ensuring that all individuals are judged fairly.



The Parable of the Talents


Jesus' parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30 further illustrates the principle of being judged according to one's opportunities and abilities. The servants were rewarded or punished based on their use of the talents entrusted to them. This parable underscores the idea that God holds individuals accountable for their actions in light of the opportunities they have been given.


The Fate of the Unrighteous


The fate of the unrighteous, those who never had the opportunity to learn about God's will, is addressed through the promise of resurrection. Revelation 20:11-13 describes the final judgment, where all the dead are judged according to their deeds. This judgment includes those who were ignorant of God's will during their lifetime.


The Book of Life

The Book of Life, mentioned in Revelation 20:12, symbolizes the record of those who have demonstrated faith and obedience to God. Those whose names are found in the Book of Life are granted eternal life, while those not found in the book face eternal destruction. This judgment is based on the totality of one's life and response to God's revelation.


The Hope of Eternal Life


The hope of eternal life is central to the Christian faith. John 17:3 defines eternal life as knowing God and Jesus Christ, "And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent." This relationship with God is made possible through faith in Jesus Christ.


The Role of Grace

Ephesians 2:8-9 emphasizes that salvation is a gift of grace, "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." This grace is available to all who seek God and respond to His revelation.


Those with Receptive Hearts and the Gospel


The gospel message is for those rightly disposed to salvation, offering salvation to all who believe. Romans 10:12-13 affirms, "For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him. For 'everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.'" This free will receptiveness, or rejection reflects God's desire for all people to come to the knowledge of the truth.


The Great Commission

The Great Commission, as recorded in Matthew 28:18-20, underscores the responsibility of Christians to spread the gospel to all nations. Jesus commands His disciples, "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you." This mission continues until the end of the age, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to hear and respond to the gospel.



The Role of the Church


The church plays a vital role in evangelism and discipleship, equipping believers to fulfill the Great Commission. Ephesians 4:11-13 describes the purpose of church leadership, "And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ."


The Ministry of Reconciliation

2 Corinthians 5:18-20 highlights the ministry of reconciliation entrusted to believers, "All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God."



The Assurance of Salvation


Believers have the assurance of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. Romans 8:38-39 provides comfort, "For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord." This assurance is grounded in the unchanging nature of God's love and promises.


The Seal of the Holy Spirit

Ephesians 1:13-14 speaks of the seal of the Holy Spirit as a guarantee of our inheritance, "In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory." This seal signifies God's ownership and the believer's secure position in Christ. This does not mean that a person cannot reject Christ in the same way Adam rejected God. There is no Calvinistity Eternal Security ("once saved, always saved").


Ephesians 2:8-9


“For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not your own doing, it is the gift of God—not because of works, lest any man should boast.” (RSV)


This passage emphasizes that salvation is entirely a gift from God, granted by His grace and received through faith. It underscores that no human effort or works can earn salvation; it is solely the result of God's kindness and mercy. This foundational truth does not contradict the necessity of perseverance, obedience, and faithfulness as highlighted in other scriptures. Instead, it complements them by showing that the initial and ongoing work of salvation is rooted in God's grace.


Jude 5


“I desire to remind you, though you were once for all fully informed, that he who saved a people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed those who did not believe.” (RSV)


This verse serves as a sobering reminder that initial deliverance or salvation does not guarantee final security if one turns away from faith. The analogy to the Israelites, who were saved from Egypt but later faced destruction due to unbelief, illustrates that continuous faith and perseverance are essential. It underlines the importance of remaining steadfast in belief and warns against the consequences of falling away.


Explanation: Jude 5 serves as a reminder that while salvation is initiated by God's grace, continued belief and faithfulness are necessary. The destruction of those who did not believe after being saved from Egypt illustrates that initial deliverance does not guarantee final salvation without ongoing faith. This does not contradict Ephesians 2:8-9, as the initial act of saving the Israelites was by God's grace, but their continued unbelief led to their downfall.


Matthew 24:13


“He who endures to the end will be saved.” (RSV)


This verse emphasizes the necessity of perseverance in the faith journey. Salvation is not seen as a one-time event but as a process that requires sustained commitment and endurance. The statement underscores that the final outcome of salvation is contingent upon enduring faith and steadfastness until the end of one's life or until Christ's return. It implies that the journey of faith is ongoing and necessitates continuous devotion and resilience.


Explanation: This verse emphasizes the importance of perseverance in faith. While salvation is a gift of grace, it requires enduring faith to the end. This complements Ephesians 2:8-9 by showing that the faith through which we are saved must be enduring. The grace of God empowers believers to persevere, and it is through this sustained faith that final salvation is realized.


Philippians 2:12


“As you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” (RSV)


Paul's exhortation to the Philippians highlights the active and participatory nature of salvation. "Working out" one's salvation involves a diligent and reverent approach to living out one's faith. It suggests that believers should remain vigilant and proactive in their spiritual lives, recognizing that salvation is a dynamic process that requires effort and dedication. The phrase "with fear and trembling" conveys a sense of seriousness and humility, acknowledging the gravity and responsibility of one's spiritual journey.


Explanation: Paul’s exhortation to "work out your own salvation" does not imply earning salvation through works but rather living out the implications of the salvation already received by grace. The "fear and trembling" reflect a reverent and serious approach to one's faith journey. This aligns with Ephesians 2:8-9 by recognizing that while salvation is a gift, it involves an active response of faith and obedience.


Hebrews 10:26-27


“If we sin deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a fearful prospect of judgment, and a fury of fire which will consume the adversaries.” (RSV)


This passage warns about the severe consequences of willful sin after having come to the knowledge of the truth. It indicates that persistent, unrepentant sin can lead to a forfeiture of the benefits of Christ's sacrifice. The prospect of judgment and fiery punishment serves as a stern caution against taking grace for granted and highlights the importance of ongoing repentance and faithfulness. It underscores the biblical teaching that salvation requires continual adherence to the truth and avoidance of deliberate sin.


Explanation: This passage warns against willful sin after receiving the truth, indicating that persistent, unrepentant sin can lead to judgment. This does not contradict the concept of salvation by grace but highlights the necessity of ongoing repentance and faithfulness. The grace that saves also calls for a transformed life, avoiding deliberate sin. This complements Ephesians 2:8-9 by showing that the grace of God not only saves but also empowers believers to live righteously.


Hebrews 6:4-6


“For it is impossible to restore again to repentance those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, and have become partakers of the Holy Spirit, and have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the age to come, if they then fall away, since they are crucifying once again the Son of God to their own harm and holding him up to contempt.” (RSV)


This passage further elaborates on the potential for a believer to fall away from the faith. It describes a scenario where those who have experienced the full blessings and knowledge of the gospel can still turn away, and if they do, their restoration becomes exceedingly difficult. This reinforces the concept that initial salvation experiences do not guarantee persistence without continued faith and adherence to God's will. It stresses the seriousness of apostasy and the importance of maintaining one's commitment to the faith.


These passages collectively emphasize that salvation is not merely a one-time event but a continuous process requiring sustained faith, perseverance, and obedience. They caution against complacency and deliberate sin, highlighting the necessity of ongoing commitment and reverence in the Christian life. The overarching message is that believers must actively participate in their spiritual journey, remaining faithful and vigilant to secure their final salvation.


Paul and James: Complementary Teachings


Paul on Faith and Works


Paul emphasizes that salvation is by grace through faith and not by works (Ephesians 2:8-9). He teaches that no one can earn salvation through their deeds; it is a gift from God.


James on Faith and Works


James, on the other hand, emphasizes that genuine faith produces good works. He states, “Faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead” (James 2:17). James is not contradicting Paul but rather complementing him by showing that true faith is evidenced by actions.


Harmonizing Paul and James:


  • Paul: Salvation is initiated by grace through faith, not by works.

  • James: True faith, which is a result of grace, naturally produces good works.


Both apostles agree that salvation is a gift of grace. Paul focuses on the root (faith by grace), while James focuses on the fruit (works as evidence of faith). Together, they present a holistic view of the Christian life: saved by grace through faith, which is evidenced by a life of good works.


The explanations of Jude 5, Matthew 24:13, Philippians 2:12, and Hebrews 10:26-27 do not violate the principle of salvation by grace through faith as stated in Ephesians 2:8-9. Instead, they complement it by emphasizing the necessity of ongoing faith, perseverance, and obedience as the natural outworking of the grace received. Paul and James are not at odds but rather provide a complete picture of the relationship between faith and works in the life of a believer.



The Final Judgment


The final judgment will reveal God's perfect justice and mercy. Revelation 20:11-15 describes the scene of the great white throne judgment, where all the dead are judged according to their deeds. This judgment includes those who never had the opportunity to hear the gospel during their lifetime.


The New Heaven and New Earth

Revelation 21:1-4 portrays the new heaven and new earth, where God will dwell with His people, "Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, 'Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.'"


The Tree of Life

Revelation 22:1-2 describes the tree of life in the new Jerusalem, providing healing for the nations, "Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb through the middle of the street of the city; also, on either side of the river, the tree of life with its twelve kinds of fruit, yielding its fruit each month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations." This imagery symbolizes the restoration and eternal life available to all who follow God.


The Role of Faith


Faith in Jesus Christ is essential for salvation. Hebrews 11:6 emphasizes, "And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him." This faith involves trust in God's promises and a commitment to follow His will.


The Faith of Abraham

Abraham's faith serves as a model for believers. Romans 4:3 cites Genesis 15:6, "For what does the Scripture say? 'Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness.'" Abraham's faith was demonstrated through his obedience and trust in God's promises, even when they seemed impossible.


The Witness of Creation


Creation itself testifies to the existence and attributes of God. Romans 1:19-20 declares, "For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse." This general revelation provides evidence of God's existence to all humanity.


The Psalms on Creation

The Psalms frequently reflect on the testimony of creation. Psalm 19:1-4 states, "The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork. Day to day pours out speech, and night to night reveals knowledge. There is no speech, nor are there words, whose voice is not heard. Their voice goes out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world." This poetic expression underscores the universal witness of creation to God's glory.



The Necessity of the Gospel


While general revelation through creation provides knowledge of God's existence, the gospel message is necessary for salvation. Romans 10:14-15 emphasizes the importance of preaching, "How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, 'How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!'"


The Urgency of Evangelism

The urgency of evangelism is reflected in Jesus' command to His disciples in Mark 16:15, "And he said to them, 'Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.'" This mandate underscores the necessity of spreading the gospel to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to hear and respond to God's message.


The Comfort of God's Sovereignty


Believers can find comfort in God's sovereignty and perfect justice. Psalm 103:19 affirms, "The Lord has established his throne in the heavens, and his kingdom rules over all." This sovereignty ensures that God's plans and purposes will be accomplished, including the fair and just judgment of all individuals.


Trust in God's Justice

Isaiah 30:18 encourages trust in God's justice, "Therefore the Lord waits to be gracious to you, and therefore he exalts himself to show mercy to you. For the Lord is a God of justice; blessed are all those who wait for him." This assurance of God's justice provides comfort to believers as they trust in His righteous judgment.


The Promise of Redemption


The promise of redemption through Jesus Christ offers hope to all humanity. Ephesians 1:7 declares, "In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace." This redemption is available to all who place their faith in Christ.


The New Covenant

The new covenant, established through Jesus' sacrifice, guarantees forgiveness and a restored relationship with God. Hebrews 8:10-12 quotes Jeremiah 31:31-34, "For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the Lord: I will put my laws into their minds, and write them on their hearts, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. And they shall not teach, each one his neighbor and each one his brother, saying, 'Know the Lord,' for they shall all know me, from the least of them to the greatest. For I will be merciful toward their iniquities, and I will remember their sins no more."


Conclusion: The Comprehensive Nature of God's Plan


In conclusion, the fate of those who never heard about God or only heard in a cursory manner is addressed through the biblical teachings of resurrection and judgment. God's perfect justice and impartiality ensure that every individual will be judged fairly, based on their response to His revealed will. The resurrection of both the righteous and the unrighteous provides hope for all, affirming God's desire for all to come to the knowledge of the truth and receive eternal life.


This article has provided an extensive examination of the biblical basis for understanding the fate of the unevangelized, adhering to the Historical-Grammatical method of interpretation and avoiding modern critical biases. Through careful exegesis and scriptural support, we have explored the hope promised in the Bible, the nature of God's foreknowledge, the promise of resurrection, and the assurance of God's justice. In doing so, we have upheld the biblical truth that God is not partial and that His plan for humanity is both just and merciful.


Discover what the Bible really says about hellfire. Explore the various interpretations and theological perspectives on eternal punishment.


About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220 books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).


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