Hell of A Conversation

I recently got into a conversation with someone about the "nature of hell". They asked what I thought/believed and so I shared with them how I understood the Scriptures and the Christian tradition on this matter.

I articulated that much of our "theology" and imagery of hell stems from Greco-Roman and Medieval Christian influence than it does on what the Scriptures point towards. As the conversation went on they were frustrated and defensive that my posture did not take on a more "literal" approach. For them, a very fiery hell is a "necessary" belief.

So my questions for you: What is your understanding of the nature of hell? What does the Scripture say? What is gained/what is lost in your particular view as it relates to our understanding of God? Is their room for different opinions?

As a primer to the conversation read what New Testament Professor (and Baptist Minister) Klyne Snodgrass has to say...

As always let us be charitable and gracious in our discussion.