Jesus never softens the truth, nor should we. Yet He who warns most about “hell” also offers hope. Notice that “the eternal fire” is meant for rebellious angels, not humans. Jesus tells Nicodemus of God’s care for us, and His plan for us:
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him (John 3:16-17).
Final judgement is coming (John 5; Matthew 13; 25). But for now the door is open to sinners.
Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation (2 Corinthians 6:2).
Look into heaven and hell. See those born once who die twice in their sins. See those born twice who never die. (Their departure is too wonderful to be called death, John 8:51; 11:25-26.) When you see all this, you realize how much your spirit needs new birth from God’s Spirit. “But,” you may say, “I’ve never seen these spiritual things.” Dear friend, you can see – by faith! For Jesus shares with you His own direct knowledge. He assures Nicodemus, and us,
“I tell you the truth, We speak of what We know, and We testify to what We have seen” (John 3:11).
He knows heaven’s happiness. He sees all hell’s horror. He knows what is in your spirit. No wonder He is so strong in His demand: You must be born again!