Pustostany w niebie, tłok w piekle? Teologia o wiecznych losach człowieka

Abstract

Theologians were always attempting to give an answer to the question that had been once asked to Jesus: „Lord, how many will be saved?” (cfr. Lc 13,23). In previous times theology was frequently giving the answer by using Augustinus’ phrase: massa damnata. The modem theology, on the other hand, tells about a possibility of an empty hell. In the middle between massa damnata and empty hell the position of John Paul II is discussed: Damnation is a real possibility, though it is impossible to know without a special God's revelation which human beings it may regard. Following the pope’s thoughts one must recall that salvation is always the work of God’s grace and of human freedom. God’s grace offers salvation to every person (cfr. Tt 2,11) but human freedom may reject this proposal thus not wanting to accept the offered salvation.