Former inmate: many ministers won't talk about the realities of Hell

By James Lambert

Harry Jerome Arnold served time in prison in during the 1970s in Louisiana. In written correspondence to this writer, Arnold affirmed that he had problems with alcoholism during the early stages of his life. However in 1979, while in prison, Harry saw the (58 minute film) "The Burning Hell."

Viewing the film had a dramatic effect on Harry Arnold. Thanks to the prison outreach from Church of Christ of Shreveport, Louisiana (which provided the film), Harry decided to commit his life to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Arnold began to fervently read the book that was to become a major part of his life: the Bible. Harry also would never forget the strong message from the film, 'The Burning Hell.'

After Harry was released from prison, the former inmate reached out to the Christian and secular communities where he lived. A resident of Virginia, Harry felt compelled to warn people about the reality of Hell.

Over the years, Harry further attempted by correspondence to reach out to dozens of pastors all over the country, requesting that they tell their congregations about the reality of Hell. He can't understand that if Jesus preached about Hell why wouldn't ministers discuss Hell in some of their sermons to their congregations. It's rare for any ministers these days to talk about the subject of Hell. Perhaps, the thought had crossed Harry's mind that ministers are timid because they think they might offend their congregation.

Arnold believes it is important for all Christian ministers to also tell non-believers about the reality of the afterlife (Heaven and Hell). Still the former inmate asks himself: if people don't hear about the reality of Hell from their pastors – who will they hear it from? Barna Research tells us that only 55% of Christians have even shared their faith with others (and Campus Crusade for Christ's founder Bill Bright once said that only 3% of Christians share their faith regularly).

Harry understands that the book of Revelation and other parts of the New Testament are clear – that our spiritual decision while we are alive will determine our eternal destiny after we die. It frustrates Arnold that ministers he's contacted continue to ignore his message. Harry is nevertheless thankful that "salvation is God's gift from Heaven" and that "Jesus is the world's only hope..."

Arnold continues by contending that there are many "false religions that tell us that ... Hell does not exist." According to 'God's Poem Writer' this includes the Jehovah's Witnesses, Christian Science, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saint, (Herbert W. Armstrong's) Church of God, the Unity Church, the Church of New Jerusalem and many 'New Age' religions.

Harry Jerome Arnold can be reached by mail at: P.O. Box 592, Charlottesville, Virginia 22902. For more information on the 1974 film, 'The Burning Hell' which totally changed the life of 'God's Poem Writer' – Harry Jerome Arnold go to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hR8VkciG1jo

© James Lambert