Problem: Paul writes that God “alone possesses immortality” (1 Tim. 6:16). Annihilationists argue that this supports the notion that those in hell are not conjoined to an eternal soul. Instead, they are annihilated at death. Is this the case?
Solution: Greek scholar Robert Thomas writes, “Olethros (‘destruction’) does not refer to annihilation, which cannot be ‘everlasting.’ The word in LXX and NT usages never has this meaning but rather turns on the thought of separation from God and loss of everything worthwhile in life.” 1
1 Thomas, R. L. (1981). 2 Thessalonians. In F. E. Gaebelein (Ed.), The Expositor’s Bible Commentary: Ephesians through Philemon (Vol. 11, p. 313). Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House.
