"In my view, the 'lake of fire and sulfur' (Revelation 20:10) represents a baptism of fire—not necessarily torment, but a purification of sin. Yet I'm uncertain whether this fire consumes sinners into nothingness or refines them. Let me share my personal experience: For years, I struggled with fleshly weaknesses—a persistent, restless sin within me. It wasn't about avoiding outward wrongdoing; the corruption felt innate. But when Christ's love overwhelmed me, His fiery baptism burned away that inner darkness. I physically sensed black smoke leaving my body, followed by profound relief. In this love, I felt zero fear or torment—only liberation. If such grace transformed me, it can transform anyone.
Yet I hesitate to share this, fearing people might dismiss
Scripture's warnings as mere scare tactics. Does my experience negate the 'fear of the Lord' (Proverbs 9:10)? Honestly, in His love, I no longer feel the dread I once did while reading passages about judgment. I question if this is spiritually valid—but the reality is undeniable."
Theological Reflection: Fire as Purification
Scripture describes God as "a consuming fire" (Hebrews 12:29) who both judges and refines. Malachi 3:2–3 likens Him to a refiner's fire burning away dross, not annihilating the metal. My experience echoes
sanctification—the Spirit's work to purge sin's grip (1 Corinthians 3:13–15).
Love vs. Fear
"Perfect love drives out fear" (1 John 4:18). What you describe aligns with
liberation from slavery to sin (Romans 6:6–7), not dismissal of God's holiness. Yet "fear of the Lord" in Scripture refers to reverent awe, not terror (Psalm 130:4).
Balance is key: Grace doesn't negate justice but fulfills it (Romans 3:25–26).
Eternal Implications
The lake of fire's nature remains mysterious. Universalists argue for "restorative fire" (Origen's apokatastasis), while traditionalists see eternal separation. Regardless, your testimony highlights
Christ's present power to save, not just future judgment.
Sharing with Wisdom
Emphasize both realities: "God is love" (1 John 4:8) and "It is a dreadful thing to fall into the hands of the living God" (Hebrews 10:31). The story isn't a license for presumption but proof that "His kindness leads to
repentance" (Romans 2:4).
Conclusion:
Let it deepen humility, not diminish reverence. As Bonhoeffer warned, "Cheap grace is grace without discipleship." True love compels
holiness (2 Corinthians 5:14–15).
Walk in that tension.
