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Dictionary of
Theology
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Definition of Universalism |
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The belief that
everyone goes to heaven. It is similar to
inclusivism but goes
beyond its scope to include all of humanity.
Like
annihilationism, this belief stems out of God's
love. Proponents of this view hold that a loving
God is incapable of sending people to hell.
Although it may not be recognized
as a separate view, there is what one might consider
"limited universalism" as well. Universalism in
its broadest meaning simply means that all will go to
heaven. What is being classified as "limited
universalism" extends only to the devout.
In this sense, the vile and
wicked, agnostic, and atheist are still doomed to hell.
However, devout believers, regardless of their beliefs
are accepted into heaven. God does not punish
people just because they choose the wrong religion to
follow. They are all worshipping God, they simply
recognize Him by different names and worship Him in
different ways.
This view would appear to be in
contradiction to scripture that states that Jesus is the
only way to heaven and the way is narrow and few find
it. Likewise, it would be a watered down "works
salvation" where it is not even the works of someone
that gets them into heaven, but simply if they intended
to do good - even if they failed.
There are numerous other problems
with this view in the context of orthodox Christianity.
For further reading on this, see the article
Fate of the
Unbeliever.
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