The condition between death and resurrection is called the Intermediate State . A different view says we are unconscious after death until our resurrection. Believers will rise and be with Christ in heaven, while nonbelievers will rise to face judgment. This belief is commonly called Soul Sleep . While we analyze the intermediate state, the primary concern for this study is the final condition of nonbelievers.
Most conservative theologians believe the unfaithful suffer endlessly.
People who hold this position usually believe souls remain conscious after death. Amazingly, this belief was rarely challenged for centuries. Many are starting to doubt this doctrine. While everlasting torment has always been repulsive to compassionate humans, Bible scholars now realize it is also difficult to defend in Scripture. Many are finally examining this subject, instead of accepting tradition without serious study.