Friends, if you’re searching for “Bible Verses About Unbelievers Going To Hell,” this content is for you. Today, I share Bible verses that can help you better understand this topic according to the Bible. These scriptures offer insight into the fate of those who don’t believe, as described in holy text. While potentially challenging, these verses aim to provide clarity on this aspect of Christian doctrine. Let’s explore what the Bible says about the ultimate destiny of unbelievers.
Contents
- 1 What Does the Bible Say About Hell for Non-Believers?
- 2 Key Biblical Passages About Eternal Punishment
- 2.1 Matthew 13:50 – Unbelievers cast into fiery furnace, eternal punishment
- 2.2 Mark 9:43 – Cut off anything leading to eternal punishment
- 2.3 Revelation 20:15 – Unbelievers cast into the lake of fire
- 2.4 2 Peter 2:4 – God did not spare sinful angels from judgment
- 2.5 Jude 1:7 – Example of punishment for sexual immorality and unbelief
- 3 Jesus’ Teachings on Hell and Damnation
- 3.1 Matthew 5:29 – Avoid sin to prevent eternal damnation
- 3.2 Luke 16:23 – Unbeliever in torment, sees Lazarus comforted in paradise
- 3.3 Matthew 10:28 – Fear God who can destroy soul in hell
- 3.4 Mark 9:48 – Unquenchable fire where the worm never dies
- 3.5 Matthew 23:33 – Warning against hypocrisy and judgment of hell
- 3.6 Luke 12:5 – Fear Him who can cast into hell
- 4 Old Testament Warnings About the Fate of the Wicked
- 4.1 Proverbs 15:11 – Death and destruction are open to the LORD
- 4.2 Daniel 12:2 – Awakening to everlasting life or shame and contempt
- 4.3 Psalm 9:17 – Wicked will return to Sheol, fate of unbelievers
- 4.4 Isaiah 66:24 – The fate of the wicked is eternal suffering
- 4.5 Ezekiel 18:20 – Each person bears responsibility for their own sin
- 4.6 Malachi 4:1 – The wicked will be burned like stubble
- 5 How Are Unbelievers Judged According to Scripture?
- 5.1 Revelation 20:12 – Dead judged by deeds from the books opened
- 5.2 John 12:48 – Rejecting Jesus brings judgment through His words
- 5.3 Romans 2:5 – Stubbornness stores wrath for judgment day
- 5.4 Romans 2:8 – Wrath for self-seeking, truth-rejecting disobedience
- 5.5 Matthew 11:22 – Greater judgment for unrepentant cities than for Sodom
- 6 The Lake of Fire: Biblical Description of Hell
- 7 Can Unbelievers Escape Hell According to the Bible?
- 8 Biblical Evidence for Eternal Punishment vs Annihilation
What Does the Bible Say About Hell for Non-Believers?
Understanding what the Bible says about hell can be challenging, but it’s important to approach it with an open heart. The scriptures tell us that eternal separation from God is a reality for those who do not believe. But rather than focusing on fear, consider the hope and peace that come with faith. It’s about recognizing the choice we have in accepting God’s love and grace.
Matthew 25:46 – Eternal punishment for unbelievers, eternal life for righteous

These shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal
Matthew 25:46
Explanation:- This verse highlights the final judgment, contrasting eternal punishment for unbelievers with eternal life for the righteous. It underscores the Bible’s teaching on the consequences of faith and unbelief, emphasizing the importance of living according to God’s will to attain eternal life.
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 consequence for those who reject God: eternal separation from His presence and glory. It underscores the Bible’s teaching on the reality of hell for unbelievers, emphasizing the importance of faith and the seriousness of divine judgment.
Revelation 21:8 – Unbelievers face fiery judgment and second death

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:- This verse highlights the fate awaiting those who reject God, emphasizing that unbelievers face a fiery judgment and the second death. It underscores the seriousness of rejecting faith, reminding readers of the eternal consequences associated with unbelief and moral wrongdoing.
John 3:36 – Eternal life for believers; wrath for unbelievers

He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him
John 3:36
Explanation:- This verse highlights the contrasting destinies of believers and unbelievers: believers receive eternal life, while those who reject faith face divine wrath. It underscores the importance of belief in Jesus for salvation and the serious consequences of unbelief.
Key Biblical Passages About Eternal Punishment
When it comes to eternal punishment, the Bible offers some clear insights. These passages aren’t just about doom and gloom but serve as a wake-up call. They encourage us to reflect on our choices and the path we’re on. It’s about understanding the consequences of turning away from a relationship with God and finding the truth that leads to eternal life.
Matthew 13:50 – Unbelievers cast into fiery furnace, eternal punishment

Shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing gnashing of teeth
Matthew 13:50
Explanation:- This verse describes the fate of unbelievers, emphasizing eternal punishment. It portrays a vivid image of a fiery furnace, symbolizing intense suffering and separation from God. This passage warns of the consequences of rejecting faith and underscores the seriousness of spiritual choices.
Mark 9:43 – Cut off anything leading to eternal punishment

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 highlights the seriousness of sin and the drastic measures one should take to avoid eternal punishment. It stresses the importance of removing anything in life that leads to sin, underscoring the eternal consequences of failing to do so.
Revelation 20:15 – Unbelievers cast into the lake of fire

Whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire
Revelation 20:15
Explanation:- This verse highlights the fate of those not found in the book of life, emphasizing the finality and seriousness of eternal punishment. It serves as a warning about the consequences of unbelief and the importance of faith in securing salvation.
2 Peter 2:4 – God did not spare sinful angels from judgment

For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment
2 Peter 2:4
Explanation:- This verse highlights God’s justice by illustrating that even angels who sinned were not exempt from judgment. It serves as a warning that divine justice applies universally, emphasizing the severity of eternal punishment for those who reject God’s righteousness.
Jude 1:7 – Example of punishment for sexual immorality and unbelief

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:- Jude 1:7 illustrates the consequences of sexual immorality and unbelief by referencing Sodom and Gomorrah. It serves as a warning about eternal punishment, highlighting the seriousness of turning away from God’s path and the fate awaiting those who persist in such actions.
Jesus’ Teachings on Hell and Damnation
Jesus spoke directly about hell and damnation, not to instill fear, but to guide us toward a life filled with God’s presence. His teachings emphasize the importance of turning toward love and forgiveness. Jesus invites us to a life of repentance and faith, showing the way to avoid spiritual death and embrace eternal joy with the Father.
Matthew 5:29 – Avoid sin to prevent eternal damnation

If thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, not that thy whole body should be cast into hell
Matthew 5:29
Explanation:- This verse highlights the seriousness of sin and its consequences, urging believers to take drastic measures to avoid sinful behavior. Jesus teaches that avoiding sin is crucial to prevent eternal damnation, emphasizing the importance of spiritual discipline and vigilance in one’s life.
Luke 16:23 – Unbeliever in torment, sees Lazarus comforted in paradise
In hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, seeth Abraham afar off, Lazarus in his bosom
Luke 16:23
Explanation:- This verse depicts the rich man’s torment in Hades while he observes Lazarus being comforted in Abraham’s bosom. It underscores the stark contrast between the fates of the unrighteous and the righteous after death, highlighting themes of justice and divine retribution.
Matthew 10:28 – Fear God who can destroy soul 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:- This verse highlights the importance of fearing God over human threats, as God holds the power over both physical life and eternal destiny. It serves as a reminder of the reality of hell and the significance of spiritual reverence and obedience.
Mark 9:48 – Unquenchable fire where the worm never dies

Where their worm dieth not, the fire is not quenched
Mark 9:48
Explanation:- In this verse, Jesus vividly describes hell as a place of unending torment, highlighting its eternal nature with imagery of unquenchable fire and undying worms. This underscores the severe consequences of unbelief and the importance of faith and repentance.
Matthew 23:33 – Warning against hypocrisy and judgment of hell
Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell?
Matthew 23:33
Explanation:- In this verse, Jesus strongly rebukes religious leaders for their hypocrisy, warning them of the severe consequences of their actions. It underscores the seriousness of their deceit and highlights the reality of divine judgment and hell for those who lead others astray.
Luke 12:5 – Fear Him who can cast into hell

But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him
Luke 12:5
Explanation:- In this verse, Jesus warns of the importance of fearing God, who holds the ultimate authority over eternal judgment. It underscores the gravity of divine judgment, urging believers to respect God’s power over both life and the afterlife, including the reality of hell.
Old Testament Warnings About the Fate of the Wicked
The Old Testament provides warnings about the fate of those who live in wickedness. These scriptures serve as reminders of the justice and righteousness of God. They illustrate the importance of living a life that aligns with God’s commandments. It’s about choosing a path of righteousness and avoiding the pitfalls of sinful living.
Proverbs 15:11 – Death and destruction are open to the LORD

Hell destruction are before the Lord : how much more then the hearts of the children of men?
Proverbs 15:11
Explanation:- Proverbs 15:11 highlights God’s omniscience, revealing that even death and destruction are fully visible to Him. This underscores the inevitability of divine judgment and serves as a warning to unbelievers about the fate awaiting the wicked if they remain unrepentant.
Daniel 12:2 – Awakening to everlasting life or shame and 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 in the afterlife for the righteous and the wicked. It serves as a warning that while some will awaken to eternal life, others face everlasting shame and contempt, emphasizing the importance of faith and righteousness.
Psalm 9:17 – Wicked will return to Sheol, fate of unbelievers
The wicked shall be turned into hell, all the nations that forget God
Psalm 9:17
Explanation:- This verse warns of the inevitable fate awaiting the wicked and unbelievers, highlighting their return to Sheol. It serves as a solemn reminder of divine justice and the consequences of rejecting God, emphasizing the serious consequences of living a life apart from Him.
Isaiah 66:24 – The fate of the wicked is eternal suffering

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:- Isaiah 66:24 vividly portrays the fate of the wicked as eternal suffering. It serves as a stark warning, illustrating the consequences for those who reject God’s ways. This verse underscores the seriousness of divine judgment and the reality of eternal separation from God’s presence.
Ezekiel 18:20 – Each person bears responsibility for their own sin

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 underscores personal accountability for one’s actions, highlighting that each individual is responsible for their own sin. It conveys the message that righteousness and wickedness are personal choices, and everyone faces consequences for their deeds, emphasizing moral responsibility.
Malachi 4:1 – The wicked will be burned like stubble

For, behold, the day cometh, that shall burn as an oven; all the proud, yea, all that do wickedly, shall be stubble: the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the Lord of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch
Malachi 4:1
Explanation:- This verse depicts a vivid warning of the impending judgment for the wicked, symbolizing their fate with the imagery of burning stubble. It serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of unbelief and disobedience, urging repentance and righteousness.
How Are Unbelievers Judged According to Scripture?
Scripture tells us that unbelievers are judged based on their rejection of God’s truth. This judgment is not about condemnation but about justice and truth. It’s essential to understand that God’s desire is for everyone to come to repentance. The Bible encourages us to seek truth, embrace faith, and live according to God’s will.
Revelation 20:12 – Dead judged by deeds from the books opened
I saw the dead, small great, stand before God; the books were opened: another book was opened, which is the book of life: the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works
Revelation 20:12
Explanation:- This verse highlights the judgment of the dead, where both believers and unbelievers are assessed based on their deeds recorded in heavenly books. It signifies the final judgment, emphasizing accountability and the importance of one’s actions in determining their eternal destiny.
John 12:48 – Rejecting Jesus brings judgment through His words

He that rejecteth me, receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day
John 12:48
Explanation:- In this verse, Jesus teaches that those who reject Him will be judged by the very words He has spoken. His message serves as the standard of judgment, underscoring the eternal consequences of rejecting His teachings and the salvation He offers.
Romans 2:5 – Stubbornness stores wrath for judgment day

But after thy hardness impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath revelation of the righteous judgment of God
Romans 2:5
Explanation:- This verse highlights that a stubborn heart accumulates wrath for the day of judgment. It warns unbelievers that their resistance to repentance leads to divine judgment, emphasizing the importance of turning towards righteousness to avoid the consequences of their actions.
Romans 2:8 – Wrath for self-seeking, truth-rejecting disobedience
But unto them that are contentious, do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation wrath
Romans 2:8
Explanation:- This verse highlights that those who are self-seeking and reject the truth face God’s wrath and anger. It underscores the biblical principle that judgment is based on one’s actions and attitude towards God’s truth, emphasizing accountability for disobedience and unbelief.
Matthew 11:22 – Greater judgment for unrepentant cities than for Sodom
But I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Tyre Sidon at the day of judgment, than for you
Matthew 11:22
Explanation:- In this verse, Jesus warns that certain unrepentant cities will face harsher judgment than Sodom. It underscores the principle that those who reject greater revelations of truth will encounter stricter judgment, highlighting the severity of rejecting Christ’s message.
The Lake of Fire: Biblical Description of Hell
The Bible describes the lake of fire as a place of eternal separation from God. It’s a sobering image meant to convey the seriousness of living apart from God’s love. This description isn’t meant to scare us but to prompt reflection and inspire a heartfelt turn toward a life of faith. It reminds us of the hope and redemption available through Christ.
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 describes the ultimate judgment where death and Hades are thrown into the lake of fire, symbolizing the final defeat of sin and separation from God. It underscores the biblical depiction of hell as a place of eternal punishment for unbelievers.
Revelation 19:20 – Defeat of the beast; cast into the lake of fire

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 illustrates the ultimate defeat of evil, where the beast and false prophet are captured and thrown into the lake of fire. It serves as a powerful depiction of divine judgment and the finality of God’s justice against those who oppose Him.
Matthew 13:42 – Unbelievers cast into fiery furnace, wailing and gnashing teeth

Shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing gnashing of teeth
Matthew 13:42
Explanation:- This verse vividly portrays the fate of unbelievers, depicting a fiery furnace symbolizing hell. It emphasizes the intense suffering and regret experienced, as shown by the imagery of wailing and gnashing of teeth, highlighting the severe consequences of rejecting faith.
Can Unbelievers Escape Hell According to the Bible?
The Bible teaches that escape from hell is possible through faith in Jesus Christ. It’s a message of hope and redemption, emphasizing God’s grace and mercy. The opportunity to turn away from sin and embrace salvation is available to all. By accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior, anyone can find a path to eternal life with God.
Romans 10:9 – Confess and believe for salvation

That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved
Romans 10:9
Explanation:- Romans 10:9 emphasizes that salvation comes through confessing Jesus as Lord and believing in His resurrection. This verse suggests that unbelievers can escape hell by embracing faith in Christ, underscoring the importance of both confession and belief for eternal salvation.
John 3:16 – Eternal life through belief in Jesus Christ

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life
John 3:16
Explanation:- This verse highlights God’s immense love, offering eternal life through faith in Jesus. It underscores the belief that salvation and escape from hell are possible for those who trust in Him, emphasizing the importance of belief for eternal life according to biblical teachings.
Acts 16:31 – Believe in Jesus for salvation

They said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, thou shalt be saved, thy house
Acts 16:31
Explanation:- Acts 16:31 highlights the essential requirement for salvation: faith in Jesus Christ. It underscores that belief in Him is the path to eternal life, suggesting that without this faith, one cannot escape the consequence of separation from God, often interpreted as hell.
1 John 5:12 – Eternal life is through the Son
He that hath the Son hath life; he that hath not the Son of God hath not life
1 John 5:12
Explanation:- This verse emphasizes that eternal life is found only through a relationship with Jesus Christ. It implies that unbelievers, who do not have the Son, miss out on this promise, suggesting that faith in Jesus is essential for escaping eternal separation from God.
Biblical Evidence for Eternal Punishment vs Annihilation
The Bible presents evidence for eternal punishment rather than annihilation, underscoring the lasting consequences of our choices. This teaching challenges us to consider the weight of our actions and the importance of living a life aligned with God’s will. It’s not just about avoiding punishment but about embracing a relationship with God that leads to eternal joy and peace.
Matthew 25:41 – Eternal fire for the cursed and unbelievers

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:- This verse highlights the concept of eternal punishment for those who reject God, depicting a separation from Him and a destiny in “eternal fire.” It underscores the biblical evidence for ongoing punishment rather than annihilation, emphasizing the consequences for unbelief and disobedience.
Revelation 14:11 – Eternal torment for those who worship the beast

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:- This verse illustrates the concept of eternal punishment for those who worship the beast, highlighting the enduring nature of their torment. It serves as a biblical argument for eternal suffering rather than annihilation, emphasizing the consequences of rejecting faith.
Revelation 20:10 – Eternal torment for the devil and false prophets

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 highlights the eternal nature of punishment, depicting the devil, beast, and false prophet enduring unending torment. It underscores the belief in perpetual consequences for evil, contrasting with annihilationist views, and serves as a solemn reminder of the fate awaiting unrepentant deceivers.