Afraid of Hell or in Love with God? What’s Really Driving Your Faith?
Let’s be honest—if they removed hell from the equation today, would some people still be Christians?
Or would there be a massive “Back to Sender” movement, with people returning their faith like a faulty Jumia package? 😅
Because, truth be told, for many, Christianity feels more like an insurance policy than a love relationship.
“Make heaven!” That’s the anthem. And for some, it’s not because they love Jesus—it’s because they don’t want to fry in hell like akara.
But wait… is that really the point?
The Fear Factor: Hell as a Motivator
Ah, Nigerian church settings. You know how it goes:
🔥 “If you die in sin, my brother, my sister, FIRE!” 🔥
🔥 “Eternal torment! Gnashing of teeth! You will remember this sermon in hell!” 🔥
You start imagining yourself inside one big suya grill, and immediately, you repent.
In fact, some people’s whole spiritual life is built on “God, please, I don’t want to miss heaven” rather than “God, I just want to know You.”
And let’s not lie—it works. Fear gets people to the altar, to the front row, to the night vigil. But does it change hearts?
Because if fear alone could transform people, why do some still sin secretly, just with more caution?
God Wants Lovers, Not Just Fearful Followers
Imagine a marriage where your spouse stays with you only because they’re scared of divorce. No love, just obligation.
That’s what a fear-based relationship with God looks like.
God doesn’t just want reluctant citizens who are afraid of jail; He wants passionate lovers.
Yes, hell is real. Yes, there’s judgment. But Jesus didn’t die just so we could avoid hell. He died so we could know Him, love Him, and live in Him.
That’s why Scripture says:
“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment.”
1 John 4:18
Real Christianity is not about running from hell; it’s about running into God’s love.
So, Should We Ignore Hell Completely?
Nope. Fear of consequences is natural. Even Jesus warned about hell. But it’s supposed to be a secondary motivator, not the main reason we follow Him.
If all we have is fear, then our faith is built on insecurity, not intimacy.
What’s Driving Your Faith?
Ask yourself:
Do I love Jesus, or am I just scared of judgment?
Do I obey God out of delight or just duty?
If heaven was just about being with Jesus and not golden streets, would I still want to go?
Maybe it’s time to stop running from hell and start running toward the One who loves you more than life itself.
Over to You!
Let’s gist. Have you ever caught yourself serving God out of fear instead of love? What’s your experience with Nigerian-style fire-and-brimstone preaching? Share in the comments! 🚀🔥
