In the Christian theological framework, the concept of the place of one who does not know God is often associated with spiritual separation from God, both in this life and in the afterlife. This separation is a result of sin and the rejection of God's revelation and salvation through Jesus Christ.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible frequently addresses the state of those who do not know God. In the Old Testament, the lack of knowledge of God is often linked to idolatry and moral corruption. Hosea 4:6 states, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you as My priests. Since you have forgotten the law of your God, I will also forget your children." This verse highlights the consequences of turning away from God's truth.

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul speaks to the spiritual condition of those who do not know God. In 2 Thessalonians 1:8-9 , Paul writes, "He will inflict vengeance on those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. They will suffer the penalty of eternal destruction, separated from the presence of the Lord and the glory of His might." This passage underscores the eternal ramifications of not knowing God, emphasizing separation from His presence.

Spiritual Blindness and Ignorance

The Bible describes those who do not know God as spiritually blind. In 2 Corinthians 4:4 , Paul explains, "The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers so they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God." This blindness prevents individuals from recognizing the truth of the gospel and the reality of God's existence and character.

Furthermore, ignorance of God is often portrayed as a willful choice. Romans 1:18-21 states, "The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness. For what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—His eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from His workmanship, so that men are without excuse. For although they knew God, they neither glorified Him as God nor gave thanks to Him, but they became futile in their thinking and darkened in their foolish hearts."

Eternal Consequences

The ultimate consequence for those who do not know God is described as eternal separation from Him. This is often referred to as hell, a place of punishment and absence of God's presence. Revelation 20:15 warns, "And if anyone was found whose name was not written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire." This imagery conveys the seriousness of rejecting God's offer of salvation.

Hope and Redemption

Despite the dire consequences, the Bible also offers hope and redemption for those who do not know God. The message of the gospel is one of reconciliation and restoration. John 3:16 declares, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." Through faith in Jesus Christ, individuals can come to know God and be restored to a right relationship with Him.

In summary, the place of one who does not know God is characterized by spiritual blindness, ignorance, and ultimately, eternal separation from God. However, the Bible consistently offers the hope of redemption and reconciliation through Jesus Christ, emphasizing God's desire for all to come to know Him and experience eternal life.