Running head: CRITIC OF FOUR VIEWS OF HELL

Four Views of Hell by William Crockett.

Jerry Hope ID #23805541 Liberty University

THEO530_B02 Deadline: 6/19/2011 Date of Submission: 6/22/2011 Instructor: Dr. Moody

Introduction The Counterpoints series, published by Zondervan, has produced nearly a dozen books in which a wide range of biblical topics are addressed, each provided the reader with diverse points of view. This book, Four Views on Hell continues the series tradition by providing the views of four distinguished authors; each qualified to represent his position. Represented in the book are the literal, metaphorical, purgatorial, and conditional views of Hell. Each author attempts to persuade the reader as to the strength of their view while also respectfully pointing out the flaws of the other authors view on the subject. Each author expresses his view regarding their version of Hell, followed by a peer review from the other contributors. These peer critiques range from total agreement on specific points to what appears at times to be personal attacks. None the less, each argument carries enough strength to cause the reader to closely review ones own position on the subject. Summary John Walvoord presents the first view examined. In his explanation of the Literal View, Walvoord first approach is to affirm the inerrancy of Scripture. Walvoord states that the problem is one of understanding the message Scripture is actually teaching. Walvoord points out that while few people disagree with the idea of an eternal Heaven where Christians have full access to God and the Saints, many people struggle with the idea of an eternal Hell where non-believers are condemned to suffer for all eternity.i Walvoord argues the concept of hell in the Old Testament teaches is that there is judgment for the unsaved after this life.ii Walvoord places the weight of his argument with evidence from the New Testament; more specifically with the
i

Walvoord, John F., William V. Crockett, Zachary J. Hayes, and Clark H. Pinnock. Four Views On Hell. (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1996), 11-12. ii Ibid, 15.

teaching of Jesus himself. Walvoord clearly states that the without a clear understanding of the conflict between infinite sin and the righteousness of God, one cannot truly understand the eternal punishment.iii Walvoord concludes his argument by stating that punishment of the wicked is eternal and that it is quite painful. The general editor, William Crockett, presents the Metaphorical View. Crockett argues that instead of the literal translation of fire and brimstone, Hell is viewed metaphorically; in that Hell may not be a physical place, but more of a state of being. However, Crockett states Hell is a place void of a relationship with; an opinion he shares with Valvoord. He even contends that most evangelicals today interpret the fires of hell metaphorically or at least allow for the possibility.iv Zachary Hayes offers the Purgatorial View. The Purgatorial view has been a cornerstone difference between the Roman Catholic Church and other Christian denominations. Hayes spends a great deal of time arguing his point of view. He then provides the historical development of purgatory that serves to familiarize non-Catholics with the concept. Hayes argues
that, aside from the giants of faith, are not properly prepared to enter into Heaven. v Because of

this lack of preparedness, a place is needed in which the believer can complete the purification process and move into Heaven complete sanctified. Clark Pinnock presents the fourth view, the Conditional View. This view, also known as the Annihilationist View, supports the idea of Hell resulting in the annihilation of the impenitent sinner. Pinnock reviews the traditional view, presented earlier by Walvoord, and outlines the

iii iv v

Ibid, 27. Ibid, 44. Ibid, 95-96.

errors of this view. Pinnock argues that the eternal torment of non-believers of God is something one would associate with Satan rather than a loving God. vi Critique of the Views The book, Four Views on Hell is a compilation of views from four passionate theologians. Each author clearly believes in the concept of Hell in some form or fashion. From the passion with which each author writes, no one could reasonable doubt the sincerity of his or her arguments. One exception should be noted however. In Pinnocks response to Hayes Purgatorial View, Pinnock suggests the inclusion of the Roman Catholic view of purgatory by evangelical theologians into their own theology. A point I doubt will receive serious consideration. As a Dispensationalist, Walvoords Literal View comes as no surprise. Dispensationalist has as a core belief a literal interpretation of the Scriptures.vii As such, Walvoord is bound to reject the Metaphorical View as this view modifies the literal meaning of the Scripture. Walvoord does offer a powerful argument concerning the Literal Views standing on tradition. However, Pinnock responds to Walvoord, pointing out that Walvoord on occasion offers what he calls correctives to traditions that he feels have gone astray.viii If this were the case, any reader then has the same right to offer corrective as one may see fit. Walvoord uses extensive Scripture references and relies heavily on the traditions in supporting his position. However, perceived inconsistency does seem to hinder his argument. Crocketts argument for the Metaphorical View of Hell is shows detail and exemplifies his dedication to researching this view before signing his name to it. Crocketts extensive work
Ibid, 138-140. Millard J. Christian Theology 2nd Edition. (Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 1998), 1168. viii Walvoord, John F., William V. Crockett, Zachary J. Hayes, and Clark H. Pinnock. Four Views On Hell. (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1996), 37.
vii vi

and his dedication to the science of research, adds to the strength of his argument concerning the Metaphorical View. One may also see how Crocketts research may work against his argument in that much of his research sited is from reference other than biblical sources. Admittedly, these sources are respected Hebrew writers, but one should not place a higher sense of authenticity than one places on the Holy Scriptures. A review of Crocketts bibliography will show many sources but one will find a lack of biblically sound references. Although Crockett makes a compelling argument for the Metaphorical View, the use of more Scriptures would have made even more of an impact on this reader. One will find the Purgatorial View offered by Hayes, to be full of useful information, especially if one is not familiar with Catholic doctrine. Although Hayes provides little in the way of a mental picture of what Hell is, he provides ample hope for the Christian whom has drifted away from the image of Christ. As is the case with Crockett, Hayes pulls in not-biblical writings to argue his point. Additionally, as Walvoord points out, Hayes takes several Scriptures out of context, including the writings of Matthew and Paul.ixx Protestant readers may find difficulty in some of the references Hayes makes concerning works and his explanations concerning Revelations. Though Pinnocks response offers assistance to Hayes argument, students of the Bible will find themselves thirsting for the Scriptural evidence that proves his point; that Scripture is yet to be offered. Pinnock gives a powerful argument for the Conditional View of Hell. Pinnocks view takes a partially traditional view in that Hell is a place where sinners spend eternity in torment. Pinnock and Walvoord both argue that Hell will provide a physical suffering for sinners, while Crocketts view is less of the physical punishment and more mental torment. However,

ix x

Ibid, 120. Matthew 12:30 and 1 Corinthians 3:11-15

Pinnocks view turns for Walvoord and Crockett in that he argues the suffering in Hell will conclude with the annihilation of the sinner. Pinnock seems offended by those who may criticize his view and spends several pages in rebuttal of his critics. His excessive protests of his critics weaken his argument. Conclusion There is no doubt that each author believes in the position for which they have argued. Each point of view is well researched and offers proof from reputable sources, although not all of the points use Gods words to fully complete his argument. Each point provides the reader with a respectable view of Hell, and each offers evidence for one to reconsider his or her current view of Hell. However, each point of view has its own set of faults that have been masterfully outlines. Four Views on Hell provides an element that sparks ones curiosity and inspires one to seek God through prayer and through his Word. Any book that brings people closer to God is worth reading.