Conditionalism

Conditionalism, also known as annihilationism or mortalism, is a theological view concerning the final destiny of the unsaved. It proposes that the punishment for the wicked in the afterlife is not eternal conscious torment, but rather complete destruction or cessation of existence. This destruction is seen as a consequence of sin, resulting in the forfeiture of eternal life.

Proponents of conditionalism often interpret biblical passages about hell and eternal punishment as referring to annihilation rather than unending suffering. They argue that the concept of eternal conscious torment is not explicitly taught in scripture and that the biblical emphasis on life and death suggests that the ultimate consequence of rejecting God is the loss of life, not eternal suffering. Conditionalists believe that God's justice and love are best understood through this framework, as eternal torment might appear disproportionate to finite sins.

Conditionalism stands in contrast to the traditional doctrine of eternal conscious torment, which has been the dominant view in many Christian traditions for centuries. It also differs from universalism, which holds that all souls will ultimately be saved. While conditionalism has a long history in theological thought, it has gained more significant attention and discussion in recent decades within various Christian denominations and scholarly circles. The debate centers on the interpretation of key biblical texts and the theological implications of different views on the afterlife.