A true Christian should never say this …

Ten Things Wrong with Saying “I Hope They Burn in Hell”

  1. It contradicts the heart of the Gospel.
    The Gospel is about salvation and redemption, not wishing destruction on people Christ died to save.
    “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” — John 3:17

  2. It ignores God’s desire for repentance.
    Scripture shows that God desires people to turn and live.
    “The Lord does not delay his promise… but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish but all to come to repentance.” — 2 Peter 3:9

  3. It reflects hatred rather than Christlike love.
    Christians are commanded to love others—even enemies.
    “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” — Matthew 5:44

  4. It forgets that we were once lost too.
    Every believer was once under condemnation before salvation.
    “For we too were once foolish, disobedient… But when the kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us.”— Titus 3:3–5

  5. It replaces compassion with pride.
    A spirit that wishes hell on others often comes from spiritual pride rather than humility.

  6. It damages the testimony of the church.
    When Christians speak this way, the watching world sees cruelty instead of the love of Christ.

  7. It shows a misunderstanding of judgment.
    Judgment belongs to God alone, not to believers wishing destruction on others.
    “Do not judge, so that you won’t be judged.” — Matthew 7:1

  8. It ignores the command to pray for sinners.
    Christians are called to intercede for people, not condemn them.
    “I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions… be made for everyone.” — 1 Timothy 2:1

  9. It reflects anger rather than the fruit of the Spirit.
    The Spirit produces love, kindness, and self-control—not vindictive speech.
    “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness…” — Galatians 5:22

  10. It forgets the mission of the church.
    Our mission is to seek the lost and preach the Gospel, not celebrate their destruction.
    “For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save the lost.” — Luke 19:10

Closing Thought

A Christian should never rejoice at the thought of someone going to hell. Instead, our hearts should reflect the heart of Christ—broken for the lost and eager to see them saved.

“The Lord’s servant must not quarrel, but must be gentle to everyone… perhaps God will grant them repentance leading them to the knowledge of the truth.” — 2 Timothy 2:24–25

Travis Dykes

For 24 years, Travis Dykes has faithfully served as a missionary and pastor, dedicating his life to the Great Command by making disciples in Botswana and across the world. After decades of ministry in Africa, he is now stepping into a full-time role in pastoral care, leadership training, and Deaf outreach with Reach Missions. In this new season, Travis will continue to pour into global partners, equip leaders, and share the Gospel where it has yet to be heard.

As Travis begins this next chapter, we invite you to prayerfully consider becoming a monthly financial partner. Your support directly strengthens his work to reach the unreached, encourage frontline workers, and expand the Kingdom of God in tangible, life-changing ways.

Travis is currently serving in multiple nations, with a primary focus in Botswana and Ethiopia, and your partnership helps make that possible.

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February News, 2026