Required reading
Dogmatic Theology Vol 2 by William G.T. Shedd (Available from Amazon or here) - Continue Chapter VI 'Hell' by reading up to the paragraph beginning 'The argument thus far goes to prove that retribution in distinction from correction, or punishment in distinction from chastisement, is endless from the nature of the case: that is, from the nature of guilt.' (page 730 of my edition).
My summary
Today Shedd begins to teach us the rational argument for endless punishment.
Firstly, the doctrine of hell is supported by the fact that sin is voluntary. Therefore guilt is punished in hell, not chastised or for the public good.
It is also supported by the continuous and indivisible nature of guilt.
What grabbed me
I liked the comparison of the punishment of a human court with the divine court: 'Earthly courts and judges look at the transgression of law with reference only to man's temporal relations, not his eternal. They punish an offence as a crime against the State, not as a sin against God. Neither do they look into the human heart, and estimate crime in its absolute and intrinsic nature, as does the Searcher of hearts and the Omniscient Judge.'
A temporal judge can only give a temporal punishment. An infinite judge, understands the infinite crime and gives an infinite punishment.
Next week's reading
Conclude Chapter VI 'Hell'.
Now it's your turn
Please post your own notes and thoughts in the comments section below.
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