Could be used to argue that Jesus was well aware of the presence of hell. It was a place saved for those who do not follow God's commands
Why were people more aware of death than in previous centuries?
Because Christians were tortured and killed in painful ways. For many, death, pain and suffering were part of normal life. People were aware of physical suffering
What did the church hope that preaching about a physical hell would do?
Deter people from committing crimes or sins
What was heaven based on?
Reflected the realities of life at the time. A place where there was no physical suffering or pain, enough to eat and no labour or sorrow
