Friends, if you’re searching for “Bible Verses About How Bad Hell Is,” this content is for you. Today, I share Bible verses that will help you better understand hell according to the Bible. These scriptures vividly describe the nature and severity of hell, offering insight into why it’s portrayed as a place of eternal punishment. By exploring these verses, you’ll gain a clearer perspective on the biblical concept of hell and its significance in Christian theology. Let’s delve into what the Word says about the torments of hell.
Contents
- 1 What Does the Bible Say About the Torment and Suffering in Hell?
- 1.1 Matthew 25:46 – Eternal punishment for the unrighteous in hell
- 1.2 Revelation 14:11 – Endless torment and no rest for the wicked
- 1.3 Luke 16:23 – Torment and suffering in hell vividly depicted
- 1.4 Mark 9:48 – Unquenchable fire and undying worm in hell
- 1.5 2 Thessalonians 1:9 – Eternal destruction away from the Lord’s presence
- 2 Biblical Descriptions of Hell as a Place of Eternal Fire
- 2.1 Matthew 18:8 – Cut off sin to avoid eternal fire in hell
- 2.2 Mark 9:43 – Cut off hand to avoid hell’s eternal fire
- 2.3 Revelation 20:15 – Cast into the lake of fire, eternal torment
- 2.4 Jude 1:7 – Eternal fire as punishment for immorality
- 2.5 Matthew 13:42 – Hell as a furnace of fire, weeping, and gnashing
- 2.6 Revelation 20:10 – Eternal torment in lake of fire for deceiver
- 3 How Jesus Christ Described the Horrors of Hell in Scripture
- 4 Old Testament Verses Revealing the Terrible Nature of Hell
- 4.1 Isaiah 66:24 – Unending torment of wicked, undying worm, unquenchable fire
- 4.2 Daniel 12:2 – Resurrection to eternal life or shame and everlasting contempt
- 4.3 Psalm 9:17 – The wicked face judgment in hell
- 4.4 Ezekiel 18:20 – Each soul accountable; personal responsibility emphasized
- 4.5 Deuteronomy 32:22 – God’s wrath consumes and devastates profoundly
- 5 The Lake of Fire: Biblical Warnings About Hell’s Punishment
- 6 Scripture About Weeping and Gnashing of Teeth in Hell
- 6.1 Matthew 13:50 – Fiery furnace: weeping and gnashing of teeth
- 6.2 Matthew 22:13 – Cast out into darkness; weeping and gnashing of teeth
- 6.3 Luke 13:28 – Weeping and gnashing of teeth in torment
- 6.4 Matthew 8:12 – Outer darkness; weeping and gnashing of teeth
- 6.5 Matthew 24:51 – Severe punishment with weeping and gnashing of teeth
- 7 Bible Verses Describing Hell as Outer Darkness and Separation
- 8 What Makes Hell So Terrifying According to Biblical Teaching?
What Does the Bible Say About the Torment and Suffering in Hell?
Hell is often depicted as a place of profound torment and suffering, a reality that the Bible doesn’t shy away from. It’s crucial to understand these descriptions not just with fear, but with an awareness of the choice we have in this life. This understanding can lead us to seek a deeper relationship with God, who offers a way to avoid such a fate through His love and grace.
Matthew 25:46 – Eternal punishment for the unrighteous in hell

These shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal
Matthew 25:46
Explanation:- This verse highlights the stark contrast between eternal life for the righteous and eternal punishment for the unrighteous. It underscores the serious consequences of one’s choices and actions, emphasizing the reality of eternal suffering in hell for those who do not follow God’s will.
Revelation 14:11 – Endless torment and no rest for the wicked

The smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever ever: they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast his image, whosoever receiveth the mark of his name
Revelation 14:11
Explanation:- Revelation 14:11 highlights the severity of hell, describing it as a place of endless torment where the wicked experience unceasing suffering and have no rest. This verse underscores the eternal consequences of rejecting righteousness and serves as a solemn warning of hell’s dire reality.
Luke 16:23 – Torment and suffering in hell vividly depicted
In hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, seeth Abraham afar off, Lazarus in his bosom
Luke 16:23
Explanation:- This verse vividly illustrates the torment and suffering in hell, depicting a state of anguish and separation from comfort. It serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of a life not aligned with God’s will, emphasizing the reality of eternal punishment.
Mark 9:48 – Unquenchable fire and undying worm in hell

Where their worm dieth not, the fire is not quenched
Mark 9:48
Explanation:- This verse vividly describes the perpetual torment in hell, symbolized by an unquenchable fire and undying worm. It underscores the eternal nature of suffering for those separated from God, highlighting the seriousness of sin and the urgency of repentance.
2 Thessalonians 1:9 – Eternal destruction away from the Lord’s presence

Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, from the glory of his power
2 Thessalonians 1:9
Explanation:- This verse highlights the severe and eternal consequences for those who reject God. It speaks of everlasting destruction and separation from the Lord’s presence, underscoring the gravity of hell’s torment and the profound loss of being apart from divine grace.
Biblical Descriptions of Hell as a Place of Eternal Fire
The imagery of hell as a place of eternal fire serves as a stark warning. It’s a vivid picture of separation from God’s presence, where the fire symbolizes ongoing destruction and unending consequence. This imagery compels us to reflect on the choices we make now and to embrace the path of redemption offered through Christ, who can save us from such a destiny.
Matthew 18:8 – Cut off sin to avoid eternal fire in hell
Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire
Matthew 18:8
Explanation:- This verse warns of the severe consequences of sin, urging believers to take drastic measures to avoid it. It highlights hell as a place of eternal fire, emphasizing the importance of removing sinful behaviors to secure one’s spiritual well-being and avoid eternal punishment.
Mark 9:43 – Cut off hand to avoid hell’s eternal fire

If thy hand offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter into life maimed, than having two hands to go into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched
Mark 9:43
Explanation:- This verse starkly illustrates the severity of hell, urging believers to take drastic measures to avoid sin and its consequences. It underscores the eternal nature of hell’s fire, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing spiritual well-being over physical pleasures or comforts.
Revelation 20:15 – Cast into the lake of fire, eternal torment

Whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire
Revelation 20:15
Explanation:- Revelation 20:15 vividly describes hell as a “lake of fire,” symbolizing eternal separation from God and unending torment for those not found in the Book of Life. This verse underscores the gravity of divine judgment and the critical importance of spiritual readiness.
Jude 1:7 – Eternal fire as punishment for immorality

Even as Sodom Gomorrha, the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire
Jude 1:7
Explanation:- This verse highlights the severe consequences of immorality, using the example of Sodom and Gomorrah to illustrate hell as a place of eternal fire. It serves as a warning about divine judgment and the seriousness of straying from righteous paths.
Matthew 13:42 – Hell as a furnace of fire, weeping, and gnashing

Shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing gnashing of teeth
Matthew 13:42
Explanation:- This verse vividly portrays hell as a place of intense suffering, described as a fiery furnace where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. It underscores the severity of eternal separation from God and serves as a solemn warning about the consequences of sin.
Revelation 20:10 – Eternal torment in lake of fire for deceiver

The devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire brimstone, where the beast the false prophet are, shall be tormented day night for ever ever
Revelation 20:10
Explanation:- This verse vividly portrays hell as a place of eternal torment, emphasizing the fate of the ultimate deceiver and his followers. It underscores the concept of unending punishment in a lake of fire, highlighting the severe consequences of evil and deception.
How Jesus Christ Described the Horrors of Hell in Scripture
Jesus spoke of hell with clear and direct language, making it undeniable that He considered it a real and dreadful place. His teachings are a call to action, urging us to follow His way of love and obedience. Understanding these descriptions should inspire us to live with purpose and compassion, showing others the path to eternal life through Him.
Matthew 10:28 – Fear God who can destroy soul and body in hell

Fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul body in hell
Matthew 10:28
Explanation:- In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the gravity of fearing God over humans. God holds the power to destroy both soul and body in hell, highlighting the severe consequences of divine judgment and urging believers to prioritize their spiritual well-being and reverence for God.
Luke 16:24 – Torment in flames, pleading for mercy and relief

He cried said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame
Luke 16:24
Explanation:- In this verse, the rich man, suffering in hell, cries out for relief from his torment and burning agony. It vividly portrays hell as a place of intense suffering and desperation, where even a drop of water is desperately sought for comfort.
Matthew 25:41 – Eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels

Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil his angels
Matthew 25:41
Explanation:- In this verse, Jesus warns of the eternal fire reserved for the devil and his angels, highlighting the severity and permanence of hell. This imagery underscores the consequences of rejecting God’s will, emphasizing the dire nature of eternal separation from divine grace.
Mark 9:47 – Better to enter life maimed than be cast into hell

If thine eye offend thee, pluck it out: it is better for thee to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire
Mark 9:47
Explanation:- This verse highlights the severity of hell by emphasizing the importance of prioritizing eternal life over earthly matters. It underscores Jesus’ teaching that avoiding sin and its consequences is paramount, illustrating the extreme measures one should take to avoid the horrors of hell.
Old Testament Verses Revealing the Terrible Nature of Hell
The Old Testament offers glimpses into the nature of hell, emphasizing the consequences of turning away from God. These verses remind us of the eternal justice that awaits those who reject divine wisdom. They serve as an invitation to seek God earnestly, embracing His laws and guidance which lead to life and blessing, rather than separation and despair.
Isaiah 66:24 – Unending torment of wicked, undying worm, unquenchable fire

They shall go forth, look upon the carcases of the men that have transgressed against me: for their worm shall not die, neither shall their fire be quenched; they shall be an abhorring unto all flesh
Isaiah 66:24
Explanation:- This verse vividly describes the fate of the wicked with imagery of unending torment, undying worms, and unquenchable fire. It underscores the severity of divine judgment and serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of turning away from righteousness.
Daniel 12:2 – Resurrection to eternal life or shame and everlasting contempt

Many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, some to shame everlasting contempt
Daniel 12:2
Explanation:- This verse highlights the stark contrast between the fates awaiting humanity after resurrection: eternal life for the righteous and everlasting shame and contempt for others. It underscores the seriousness of judgment and the grave nature of consequences for those not aligned with righteousness.
Psalm 9:17 – The wicked face judgment in hell
The wicked shall be turned into hell, all the nations that forget God
Psalm 9:17
Explanation:- This verse highlights the fate of the wicked, emphasizing that those who reject God will face judgment and be cast into hell. It serves as a solemn reminder of the consequences of turning away from righteousness and the importance of seeking God’s ways.
Ezekiel 18:20 – Each soul accountable; personal responsibility emphasized

The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him
Ezekiel 18:20
Explanation:- This verse highlights the principle of individual accountability before God, stressing that each person bears responsibility for their own actions. It underscores the importance of personal responsibility in spiritual matters, emphasizing that one’s eternal fate is determined by their own choices and actions.
Deuteronomy 32:22 – God’s wrath consumes and devastates profoundly

For a fire is kindled in mine anger, shall burn unto the lowest hell, shall consume the earth with her increase, set on fire the foundations of the mountains
Deuteronomy 32:22
Explanation:- In Deuteronomy 32:22, God’s fierce anger is depicted as a consuming fire that reaches the depths of the earth. This vivid imagery underscores the severity of divine judgment, illustrating the profound devastation and destruction associated with God’s wrath.
The Lake of Fire: Biblical Warnings About Hell’s Punishment
The Bible uses the imagery of a lake of fire to depict the finality and severity of hell’s punishment. This vivid description is meant to awaken us to the gravity of our spiritual choices. It’s a powerful call to align our lives with God’s will, to seek His mercy and forgiveness, and to share His love so others may avoid this fate.
Revelation 20:14 – Death and Hades cast into the lake of fire

Death hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death
Revelation 20:14
Explanation:- This verse illustrates the ultimate judgment, where death and Hades are thrown into the lake of fire, symbolizing the final and complete defeat of evil. It serves as a stark warning about the eternal punishment awaiting those who reject God’s salvation.
Revelation 21:8 – Sins lead to lake of fire, eternal punishment

But the fearful, unbelieving, the abominable, murderers, whoremongers, sorcerers, idolaters, all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire brimstone: which is the second death
Revelation 21:8
Explanation:- Revelation 21:8 serves as a stark warning about the consequences of sin, illustrating that those who engage in various sinful behaviors face the ultimate punishment in the lake of fire. This verse underscores the seriousness of divine judgment and the eternal nature of hell’s punishment.
Revelation 19:20 – Beast and false prophet cast into fiery lake

The beast was taken, with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone
Revelation 19:20
Explanation:- This verse vividly illustrates the severe consequences of defying God, as the beast and false prophet are cast into the lake of fire. It serves as a powerful warning about the eternal punishment awaiting those who oppose divine truth and embrace evil.
Revelation 20:13 – Dead judged; sea, death, Hades give up souls
The sea gave up the dead which were in it; death hell delivered up the dead which were in them: they were judged every man according to their works
Revelation 20:13
Explanation:- This verse highlights a future judgment where all the dead, regardless of where they are, will be resurrected and judged according to their deeds. It underscores the comprehensive nature of God’s judgment and serves as a solemn warning of the eternal consequences for those not found in the Book of Life.
Scripture About Weeping and Gnashing of Teeth in Hell
The expressions of weeping and gnashing of teeth in hell convey a deep, eternal regret and anguish. These images serve as a poignant warning of the consequences of a life lived apart from God. They encourage us to embrace the joy and peace found in a relationship with Christ, who offers salvation and the hope of eternal life free from such sorrow.
Matthew 13:50 – Fiery furnace: weeping and gnashing of teeth

Shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing gnashing of teeth
Matthew 13:50
Explanation:- This verse vividly portrays the torment of hell as a fiery furnace, highlighting the intense suffering with imagery of weeping and gnashing of teeth. It underscores the severe consequences of separation from God’s presence, serving as a solemn warning to seek righteousness.
Matthew 22:13 – Cast out into darkness; weeping and gnashing of teeth

Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand foot, take him away, cast him into outer darkness, there shall be weeping gnashing of teeth
Matthew 22:13
Explanation:- This verse vividly depicts the consequences of being cast away from God’s presence. It highlights the torment and despair in hell, symbolized by “weeping and gnashing of teeth,” emphasizing the severity of eternal separation from divine grace and light.
Luke 13:28 – Weeping and gnashing of teeth in torment
There shall be weeping gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, you yourselves thrust out
Luke 13:28
Explanation:- This verse highlights the anguish and regret experienced in hell, where there is weeping and gnashing of teeth. It underscores the separation from God’s presence and the sorrow of missed opportunities to embrace salvation.
Matthew 8:12 – Outer darkness; weeping and gnashing of teeth
But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping gnashing of teeth
Matthew 8:12
Explanation:- This verse vividly describes the anguish and despair of those cast into hell, highlighting the imagery of “outer darkness” and the intense torment characterized by “weeping and gnashing of teeth.” It underscores the severity of separation from God’s presence and eternal suffering.
Matthew 24:51 – Severe punishment with weeping and gnashing of teeth

Shall cut him asunder, appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping gnashing of teeth
Matthew 24:51
Explanation:- This verse illustrates the severe punishment awaiting the unfaithful, depicting hell as a place of anguish. “Weeping and gnashing of teeth” symbolizes intense sorrow and regret, highlighting the consequences of a life lived away from righteousness and divine expectations.
Bible Verses Describing Hell as Outer Darkness and Separation
The concept of hell as outer darkness highlights the isolation and separation from God’s light and love. This imagery is a sobering reminder of the ultimate consequence of rejecting God’s grace. It challenges us to seek the light of Jesus, who offers us a place in His eternal presence, surrounded by love and peace, rather than darkness and despair.
Matthew 25:30 – Cast into outer darkness; weeping and gnashing of teeth
Cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping gnashing of teeth
Matthew 25:30
Explanation:- This verse vividly depicts hell as a place of utter darkness and profound separation from God, characterized by intense sorrow and regret, symbolized by “weeping and gnashing of teeth.” It underscores the severe consequences of spiritual unfaithfulness and the absence of divine presence.
Jude 1:13 – Wandering stars in eternal darkness and separation
Raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wandering stars, to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness for ever
Jude 1:13
Explanation:- This verse vividly depicts the fate of the ungodly as being similar to “wandering stars” destined for eternal darkness. It highlights the profound separation and isolation experienced in hell, underscoring the consequences of straying from God’s path.
2 Peter 2:17 – False teachers destined for darkness and separation
These are wells without water, clouds that are carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of darkness is reserved for ever
2 Peter 2:17
Explanation:- This verse portrays false teachers as being like wells without water, destined for darkness and separation. It highlights the emptiness of their teachings and suggests their ultimate fate is one of isolation and spiritual void, aligning with the concept of hell as outer darkness.
What Makes Hell So Terrifying According to Biblical Teaching?
Hell’s terror stems from its eternal nature, its separation from God, and the unending consequences of sin. These biblical teachings push us to consider the seriousness of our spiritual journey. They encourage us to embrace the hope and redemption found in Christ, who provides a way to eternal life filled with joy and communion with God, rather than fear and separation.
Revelation 14:10 – God’s wrath, eternal torment with fire and brimstone

The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; he shall be tormented with fire brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, in the presence of the Lamb
Revelation 14:10
Explanation:- This verse vividly describes hell as a place of God’s unrestrained wrath, where those who reject Him face eternal torment. The imagery of fire and brimstone underscores the severity and inescapable nature of this judgment, highlighting the terrifying consequences of separation from God.
Luke 16:26 – Impassable chasm separates heaven and hell forever
Beside all this, between us you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence
Luke 16:26
Explanation:- This verse highlights the permanent separation between heaven and hell, underscoring the irreversible nature of one’s eternal destiny. It emphasizes the terrifying reality that once in hell, there is no crossing over to heaven, illustrating the finality of one’s choices in life.