The Bible consistently reveals God's displeasure with hostility, emphasizing His desire for peace, love, and reconciliation among His people. Hostility, characterized by enmity, aggression, and conflict, stands in stark contrast to the virtues God desires His followers to embody.

Old Testament Insights

In the Old Testament, God's disapproval of hostility is evident in His commandments and interactions with His people. Proverbs 6:16-19 lists things the Lord hates, including "a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies, and a person who stirs up conflict in the community" . These verses highlight God's aversion to actions that foster discord and hostility.

The narrative of Cain and Abel in Genesis 4 further illustrates God's displeasure with hostility. Cain's hostility towards Abel, culminating in murder, results in God's curse upon Cain, demonstrating the severe consequences of harboring and acting upon hostile intentions.

Prophetic Warnings

The prophets frequently addressed the issue of hostility among God's people. Isaiah 59:7-8 describes the sinful nature of those who pursue violence and conflict: "Their feet run to evil; they are swift to shed innocent blood. Their thoughts are sinful thoughts; ruin and destruction lie in their wake. The way of peace they have not known, and there is no justice in their tracks" . This passage underscores the destructive nature of hostility and God's disapproval of such behavior.

New Testament Teachings

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ embodies and teaches the principles of peace and reconciliation. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus declares, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God" (Matthew 5:9). This beatitude highlights the value God places on those who actively seek to resolve conflict and promote peace.

The Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment in Romans 12:18, urging believers, "If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone" . Paul emphasizes the importance of striving for peace and avoiding hostility, reflecting God's desire for harmonious relationships among His people.

The Role of the Church

The early church faced challenges of hostility, both internally and externally. In Ephesians 4:31-32, Paul instructs the church to "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, outcry and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you" . This directive underscores the call for believers to reject hostility and embrace forgiveness and kindness.

Divine Judgment and Hostility

Scripture also warns of divine judgment against those who persist in hostility. In James 4:1-2, the apostle questions, "What causes conflicts and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from the passions at war within you? You crave what you do not have; you kill and covet, but are unable to obtain it. You quarrel and fight" . James highlights the sinful nature of hostility and the internal strife it causes, warning believers of the spiritual consequences.

Conclusion

Throughout the Bible, God's displeasure with hostility is evident in His commandments, teachings, and the example of Jesus Christ. Believers are called to reject hostility, pursue peace, and embody the love and reconciliation that reflect God's character.