Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, "torments" often refer to severe physical or mental suffering, typically associated with divine judgment or the consequences of sin. The concept of torment is present in both the Old and New Testaments, illustrating the seriousness of God's justice and the reality of eternal punishment for the unrepentant.Old Testament References While the specific term "torments" is not frequently used in the Old Testament, the concept is evident in various narratives and prophetic writings. The plagues of Egypt (Exodus 7-12) serve as a vivid example of divine-induced suffering as a consequence of Pharaoh's hardened heart. Similarly, the curses outlined in Deuteronomy 28:15-68 describe the severe afflictions that would befall Israel if they disobeyed God's commandments. The Psalms and the Prophets often speak of distress and anguish as forms of divine retribution. For instance, Psalm 18:4-5 states, "The cords of death encompassed me; the torrents of chaos overwhelmed me. The cords of Sheol entangled me; the snares of death confronted me." This imagery conveys the overwhelming nature of divine judgment. New Testament References In the New Testament, the concept of torment is more explicitly associated with eternal punishment and the final judgment. Jesus frequently spoke of hell (Gehenna) as a place of torment. In the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, the rich man finds himself in Hades, "being in torment" (Luke 16:23), and pleads for relief from his suffering. The Book of Revelation provides a vivid depiction of the torments awaiting those who reject God. Revelation 14:10-11 warns, "He too will drink the wine of God’s anger, poured undiluted into the cup of His wrath. And he will be tormented in fire and sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and of the Lamb. And the smoke of their torment rises forever and ever." Theological Implications Theologically, torments are understood as the just consequences of sin and rebellion against God. They serve as a sobering reminder of the holiness of God and the seriousness of sin. The reality of eternal torment underscores the urgency of repentance and faith in Jesus Christ as the only means of salvation. Pastoral Considerations From a pastoral perspective, the doctrine of eternal torment is both challenging and essential. It calls believers to a deeper understanding of God's justice and mercy, motivating them to share the gospel with urgency and compassion. The reality of torment also provides comfort to the faithful, affirming that God will ultimately vindicate His righteousness and bring justice to a world marred by sin. Library "The Eternity of Hell-Torments" Of the Torments and Punishments of Souls. The Torments of Giant Bad Feelings Our Lord Shows St. Teresa the Place which She had by Her Sins ... The Misery of those Who, Besides Losing the Saints' Rest, Lose the ... That the Perfect Lover of God had Liever Run into Great Pain than ... The Canons of the Blessed Peter, Archbishop of Alexandria, and ... But to those who have Been Delivered Up, and have Fallen... Some Man May Say: "If There be not in the Dead any Care For... The Wonderful Constancy of the Martyrs. Thesaurus Torments (1 Occurrence)...Torments (1 Occurrence). Luke 16:23 And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. ... /t/torments.htm - 6k Various (52 Occurrences) Lunatic (2 Occurrences) Lunatick (2 Occurrences) Laz'arus (16 Occurrences) Forth (1639 Occurrences) Fame (38 Occurrences) Tormentor (1 Occurrence) Tormentors (3 Occurrences) Report (127 Occurrences) Resources What is the “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” sermon? | GotQuestions.orgIs The Divine Comedy / Dante's Inferno a biblically accurate description of Heaven and Hell? | GotQuestions.org What is Abraham's bosom? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Torments (1 Occurrence)Luke 16:23 Subtopics Related Terms |
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