The Holy Post Episode 208: Talking About Hell! With John Walton
Jul 11, 2016
OT scholar Dr. John Walton discusses the concept of hell in the Old Testament, exploring ancient beliefs and contrasting them with neighboring cultures. The podcast also delves into the disconnect between beliefs and actions in Christianity, cultural influences on theology in the New Testament, and the importance of re-examining distorted views of hell.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Chick Tracts and Hell
- Phil Vischer recalls reading Jack Chick tracts as a child, which depicted graphic images of hell.
- These tracts influenced his early understanding of hell as a place of eternal torment.
Old Testament View of Hell
- The Old Testament does not depict hell as a place of post -death punishment.
- Ancient Israelites believed Sheol, the netherworld, was for everyone, regardless of their actions in life.
Israelite vs. Egyptian Afterlife Beliefs
- Ancient Israelites didn't share the elaborate afterlife views of surrounding cultures like the Egyptians.
- Their focus was on living faithfully in the present and fulfilling God's purpose for their community.