Eternal punishment is associated with unbelief as the gravest doctrinal offense. A major sin committed by someone retaining faith is not automatically equated with that state.
An objection argues that a lesser degree of pain may provide sufficient distinction even if both punishments are everlasting. The reply emphasizes the broader scriptural distinction between the final fates of unbelief and faith.
Severity of punishment and duration of punishment are independent properties; confusing them distorts the argument.