People were created to exist forever. We will either exist eternally separated from God by sin or eternally with God through forgiveness and salvation. To be eternally separated from God is hell. To be eternally in union with Him is eternal life in Heaven. Heaven and hell are real places of eternal existence.
John 3:16 | John 14:17 | Romans 6:23 | Romans 8:17-18 | Revelation 20:15 | 1 Corinthians 2:7-9