March 2001 — For three days this week, I had the pleasure, along with my co-author Dr. Robert A. Peterson of Covenant Theological Seminary, of presenting the Bueerman-Champion Lectureship at Western Theological Seminary in Portland, Oregon on the theme “Two Views of Hell.” Dr. Peterson argued that hell will involve unending conscious torment. I argued that hell will culminate in the everlasting extinction of the entire person, body and soul. We both appealed to the Scriptures as primary and final authority on the subject.
The Western Seminary administration, faculty, staff and students extended the warmest of hospitality to us both, and manifested an admirable spirit of godly inquiry and open-mindedness, with a strong willingness to search the Scriptures afresh to hear and to receive whatever they might teach on this subject. No one has a right to ask for more than that!
Besides enjoying the fellowship of Bible study and the beautiful Oregon scenery and weather, these days resulted in a warm personal friendship with my brother and theological adversary, Dr. Robert A. Peterson, whom I came to appreciate as an humble, honest and very gifted man of God. For all these blessings I give God humble thanks.