Are most people going to Hell?

[Mickey]

I agree with you that there are many moral non-Catholic Christians, who try to do their best to follow the teachings of Christ. But I hedge a bit, because it seems to me that by being Protestants, they are clearly “protesting” against God’s church. Some clearly don’t think through what that means, but does that make them culpable for not understanding their faith? And does it further limit their ability to find God and to truly know his will? I guess one could argue convincingly that not everyone has the ability to understand the nuances of doctrine and perhaps those more simple among us are to be saved by following the natural law within their hearts. But this would not extend to those that have the intellectual capacity, but not the inclination to pursue the knowledge of God. I think these will be condemned for their indifference

And what of those that do consider the fact that they are protesting against God’s church and continue on that path? This type is inevitably hostile toward Catholicism because by definition, they need to justify their staying outside the church. Does this make them culpable?

Surely it is a difficult subject and not one which we can judge. The reformed churches lost their Apostolic succession and hence lost the sacrament of Holy Orders. The other sacraments were systematically discarded along with the traditional Liturgy in most cases. The sacraments or “ordinances” that were retained, (Baptism and Lord’s supper), became symbolic gestures. Today, we have mega churches with theater style seats, state of the art light shows, and rock bands. The focal point of their service revolves around a charismatic preacher. If more people understood the history of the Church, I believe they would flee from many of these “reformed traditions”. But again, it is not our place to judge or to decide who is culpable or not.

 

[goofyjim]

We don’t know where most people are going. We must leave that decision to God alone.

 

[expectthebest]

I agree with you that there are many moral non-Catholic Christians, who try to do their best to follow the teachings of Christ. But I hedge a bit, because it seems to me that by being Protestants, they are clearly “protesting” against God’s church. Some clearly don’t think through what that means, but does that make them culpable for not understanding their faith? And does it further limit their ability to find God and to truly know his will? I guess one could argue convincingly that not everyone has the ability to understand the nuances of doctrine and perhaps those more simple among us are to be saved by following the natural law within their hearts. But this would not extend to those that have the intellectual capacity, but not the inclination to pursue the knowledge of God. I think these will be condemned for their indifference

And what of those that do consider the fact that they are protesting against God’s church and continue on that path? This type is inevitably hostile toward Catholicism because by definition, they need to justify their staying outside the church. Does this make them culpable?

We have to careful not to assume that a thinking person who understands the Doctrine and the Scripture couldn’t take a serious look at the Catholic Faith and reject it as not the true faith. There are many very knowlegable and smart protestants who in all good conscience believe Catholocism is wrong and Luthereanism, for example, is right. What of these people? Many protestants believe Catholics are less likely to recieve salvation just as Catholics believe protestants are less likely to recieve salvation. Doesn’t conscience have a great roll in this?

 

[Mickey]

Many protestants believe Catholics are less likely to recieve salvation just as Catholics believe protestants are less likely to recieve salvation. Doesn’t conscience have a great roll in this?

It is dangerous to think that anybody is less likely to receive salvation. The parable of the publican and the pharisee tells us about this.

 

[Dorothy]

I agree with you that there are many moral non-Catholic Christians, who try to do their best to follow the teachings of Christ. But I hedge a bit, because it seems to me that by being Protestants, they are clearly “protesting” against God’s church. Some clearly don’t think through what that means, but does that make them culpable for not understanding their faith? And does it further limit their ability to find God and to truly know his will? I guess one could argue convincingly that not everyone has the ability to understand the nuances of doctrine and perhaps those more simple among us are to be saved by following the natural law within their hearts. But this would not extend to those that have the intellectual capacity, but not the inclination to pursue the knowledge of God. I think these will be condemned for their indifference

And what of those that do consider the fact that they are protesting against God’s church and continue on that path? This type is inevitably hostile toward Catholicism because by definition, they need to justify their staying outside the church. Does this make them culpable?

I would hope their consciences would make them aware if they are hostile towards Catholicism and close-minded about hearing things they would rather not here.

Some may feel entirely correct and justified in what they think, because of what they were taught, over and over. The Lord knows who is truly culpable and who is not. I am not able to judge that .

I guess the bottom line is that the Lord knows who is resisting to learn and search into what the Catholic Church claims, and also those who simply believe what they are brought up to believe not being aware that it would be good if they learned more.

 

[paul_c]

It is dangerous to think that anybody is less likely to receive salvation. The parable of the publican and the pharisee tells us about this.

Well, Mickey, there’s two schools of thought on this one.

One, is as you say, “Judge not, lest you be judged.”

The second is the responsibility to help people learn the truth so that they can be saved.

The main reason that most people are on these forums is to try to learn the truth. The Catholic church clearly teaches that it is the way to salvation. If we are to teach otherwise, we are teaching falsehoods and contributing to the damnation of those that are persuaded that another path is sufficient, when it is not.

 

[expectthebest]

It is dangerous to think that anybody is less likely to receive salvation. The parable of the publican and the pharisee tells us about this.

Does the Church not teach that one is more likely to achieve salvation by being a Faithful Catholic taking full advantage of the Sacrements?

 

[Mickey]

The Catholic church clearly teaches that it is the way to salvation. If we are to teach otherwise, we are teaching falsehoods and contributing to the damnation of those that are persuaded that another path is sufficient, when it is not.

I am not telling you to refrain from teaching Apostolic Christianity. I am saying that we cannot judge who is saved and who is not. Do not put words in my mouth.

 

[Mickey]

Does the Church not teach that one is more likely to achieve salvation by being a Faithful Catholic taking full advantage of the Sacrements?

The Church does not make judgements on who is saved and who is not.

 

[paul_c]

The Church does not make judgements on who is saved and who is not.

Who is making judgments on who is saved?

 

[Mickey]

Who is making judgments on who is saved?

Hopefully no one.

 

[expectthebest]

The Church does not make judgements on who is saved and who is not.

Yes, I agree. But the Church clearly teaches that one has a better chance at Salvation by taking advantage of the Sacrements, right? Therefore, one who is a Faithful Catholic would have a better chance at Salvation than one who is not. Correct?

 

[tobinatorstark]

As I understand it, most people are going to Hell. Jesus Himself says so in the Bible when he says that the road to hell is wide, and the gate to Heaven is narrow and few enter it or something like that.

Furthermore, the Catechism says that no one is deemed ignorant of the moral law written in our conscience (or something similar), so people who deliberately and with full knowledge commit adultery, murder, theft etc. are in mortal sin even if they never heard of Catholicism. Right?

olrl.org/snt_docs/fewness.shtml is a sermon by a saint, and here are some quotes:

So is it true that most people are going to Hell?

Thanks!

This is something that we just can’t answer. Only God knows who is going to heaven and who will not. We don’t know how many people will be there and we don’t know how many people will end up in hell

 

[Abbadon]

I would hope their consciences would make them aware if they are hostile towards Catholicism and close-minded about hearing things they would rather not here.

Some may feel entirely correct and justified in what they think, because of what they were taught, over and over. The Lord knows who is truly culpable and who is not. I am not able to judge that .

I guess the bottom line is that the Lord knows who is resisting to learn and search into what the Catholic Church claims, and also those who simply believe what they are brought up to believe not being aware that it would be good if they learned more.

Couldn’t the same be said about Catholics from some other religious point of view?

 

[Shlomey]

Yes, I agree. But the Church clearly teaches that one has a better chance at Salvation by taking advantage of the Sacrements, right? Therefore, one who is a Faithful Catholic would have a better chance at Salvation than one who is not. Correct?

I would actually say this:

A Catholic may have “better” or “worse” chances to salvation specifically because of the fullness of truth and the sacraments:

1 Corinthians 11:29 For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh judgment to himself, not discerning the body of the Lord.

Luke 12:48 But he that knew not, and did things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. And unto whomsoever much is given, of him much shall be required: and to whom they have committed much, of him they will demand the more.

Catholics have the easiest access to heaven AND hell

 

[Abbadon]

Why can’t we all just live lives as good people and simply do no harm? Why are we worrying about all this fu fu?

Going to heaven, going to hell, Protestants and Catholics. How about we let it all go and live as best we can then let whoever is at the end decide?

 

[expectthebest]

Why can’t we all just live lives as good people and simply do no harm? Why are we worrying about all this fu fu?

Going to heaven, going to hell, Protestants and Catholics. How about we let it all go and live as best we can then let whoever is at the end decide?

Well, because the goal is to get to Heaven. If we do not follow God’s laws, we won’t make it.

 

[steve_b]

I agree that all those sins cause us to reject God. The main reason to go to Mass would be to be with Jesus who is present in the Eucharist. Watching a movie or something like that is not a good enough reason to miss this extremely important Sacrament.

BUT, what about Catholics who do miss Mass, Catholics who do use birth control? Sure, they are disobeying God, but can you really imagine these people (who are probably no worse than we are in other respects) being TORMENTED FOREVER WITH NO WAY OUT, NOT EVEN THE ABILITY TO CEASE TO EXIST?

It’s hard to believe that a loving God would create a Hell.

I think one needs to ask, why is missing mass on purpose, so serious a sin.

1. 
   *]scripture says failing to meet as is the habit of some is a grave sin. Why? Because the mass (the Eucharist) is the re- presentation of the sacrifice for sin [Mt 26:26-28] Anyone who doesn’t partake in the Eucharist has no life in them [Jn 6:53-59]
   *]Where you ask is missing mass grave matter in scripture?
   (emphasis mine)
   
   Heb 10:
   19Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, 20by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, 21and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. 23Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. 24And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. 25Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, **but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. **
   26If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins is left, 27but only a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire that will consume the enemies of God
   
   It’s deadly serious to purposefully miss the sacrifice of the mass on Sunday.
   
   
   Hermione:
   

   In addition it seems that most of us are going to Hell! This means that most people you know are probably going to burn forever. Maybe most of your family members will burn. Maybe you will burn alongside them!!!

   God doesn’t send anyone there. One will go there because of their choices.
   
   Remember, God always gives us a choice. He gives us a choice all day long each and every day of our lives…
   
   With every decision you are to make, think of God saying to you
   
   Today I put before you life and death blessings and curses, choose life [Deut 30:19]

 

[expectthebest]

Heb 10:
19Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, 20by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, 21and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. 23Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. 24And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. 25Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
26If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins is left, 27but only a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire that will consume the enemies of God

It’s deadly serious to purposefully miss the sacrifice of the mass on Sunday.

I don’t see where it says that missing Mass on Sunday is a mortal sin. It says to not give up the habbit of meeting. It doesn’t define what day or how often one must do this. I don’t see where it says that missing Mass is a mortal sin. It says that to continue sinning will get you a trip to hell. But, the Scripture doesn’t say the missing Mass on Sunday is in fact a mortal sin in of itself. Where have I gone wrong here?

 

[steve_b]

I don’t see where it says that missing Mass on Sunday is a mortal sin. It says to not give up the habbit of meeting. It doesn’t define what day or how often one must do this. I don’t see where it says that missing Mass is a mortal sin. It says that to continue sinning will get you a trip to hell. But, the Scripture doesn’t say the missing Mass on Sunday is in fact a mortal sin in of itself. Where have I gone wrong here?

Dissecting the passage

:
Heb 10:
19Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus,

What place is this? The Holy of Holies, The sanctuary, where God is

:

20by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, 21and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith,** having our hearts** sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water.

Having been baptized

:

23Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. 24And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. **25Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. **

They met on the first day of the week (Sunday the Lord’s day) to celebrate the Eucharist
Acts 20:7
1 Cor 16:2
Rev 1:10

:

26If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth,

what’s the context of “keep on sinning after receiving the knowledge of truth”?

for ONE, in context, it’s failing to meet on Sunday to celebrate the Eucharist as is the habit of some

:

no sacrifice for sins is left, 27but only a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire that will consume the enemies of God

What/who is the sacrifice for sin spoken of in scripture?
[Mt 26:26-28]
[Jn 6:53-59] suggest reading all of Jn 6:

Jesus and the Eucharist are intimately tied, one and the same
expect:

But, the Scripture doesn’t say that missing Mass on Sunday is in fact a mortal sin in of itself. Where have I gone wrong here?

If the consequence for missing mass on Sunday (as is the habit of some) is that no sacrifice for sin is left for YOU, but only a fearful judgement, and a raging fire that will destroy God’s enemies, can you think of a worse way to describe a sin? I can’t.
That’s a mortal sin if I’ve ever heard one.