Why is it dangerous to ignore the preaching of the gospel?

In 2 Corinthians 4:3-4, Paul warns that 'if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost; in whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not.' This scripture underscores the peril of indifference toward the gospel. When individuals hear the gospel but do not respond, they risk being spiritually blinded, a state where the truth remains obscured. This blindness is not just a lack of understanding; it is a divine judgment that may lead to eternal separation from God. The act of hearing the gospel carries a weighty responsibility; it calls for an attentive heart that seeks truth and understanding. As such, neglecting this call can have dire consequences and is a sign of judgment by which God allows individuals to remain lost. Therefore, recognizing and responding to the gospel is a matter of life and death.