Question
In Donald Grey Barnhouse's commentary on Revelation 1:9-20 he talks about Hades having two divisions. One is for the souls and spirits of those in torment, and one is for the souls and spirits of believers. Where in Scripture does he find where it says there are two divisions?
Answer
That idea is usually drawn from the story of Lazarus and the Rich Man in Luke 16:19-31. However, not all commentators are convinced that the story of Lazarus and the Rich Man is historical. Some think it is a parable. If it is a parable, it may reflect Jesus' own views of Hades (meaning that it is an accurate representation), or Jesus may simply be using traditional Jewish mythology at that point (meaning that it may not be an accurate representation). I myself am hesitant to make any certain determination about the passage.
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