The concept of God's hatred of wickedness is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, reflecting His holy nature and moral perfection. God's aversion to sin and evil is not only a testament to His righteousness but also a demonstration of His justice and love for His creation. This entry explores the biblical basis for understanding God's hatred of wickedness, drawing from various passages in the Berean Standard Bible .

Old Testament Foundations

The Old Testament lays a foundational understanding of God's disdain for wickedness. In the book of Psalms, the psalmist declares, "For You are not a God who delights in wickedness; no evil can dwell with You" (Psalm 5:4). This verse underscores the incompatibility of evil with God's holy presence. Furthermore, Proverbs 6:16-19 lists things the Lord hates, including "a heart that devises wicked schemes" and "feet that run swiftly to evil" . These passages highlight specific behaviors and attitudes that are detestable to God.

The prophet Isaiah also speaks to God's rejection of wickedness, stating, "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil" (Isaiah 5:20). This warning against moral inversion reflects God's desire for His people to uphold His standards of righteousness. Similarly, in the book of Jeremiah, God expresses His anger towards the persistent wickedness of His people, saying, "They have turned their backs to Me and not their faces; though I taught them again and again, they would not listen or respond to discipline" (Jeremiah 32:33).

New Testament Continuation

The New Testament continues to affirm God's hatred of wickedness, emphasizing the call to holiness for believers. In Romans 1:18, the apostle Paul writes, "The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness" . This passage illustrates the divine response to human sinfulness and the suppression of truth.

The epistle of James further elaborates on the nature of sin, stating, "Each one is tempted when by his own evil desires he is lured away and enticed. Then after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death" (James 1:14-15). This progression from temptation to sin and ultimately to death underscores the destructive nature of wickedness, which God opposes.

God's Justice and Mercy

While God's hatred of wickedness is evident, His response is not solely punitive. The Bible reveals a God who is both just and merciful, offering redemption and forgiveness through Jesus Christ. In 2 Peter 3:9, it is written, "The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise as some understand slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance" . This verse highlights God's desire for repentance and reconciliation, even as He stands opposed to sin.

The sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus Christ serve as the ultimate expression of God's love and justice. Through Christ, believers are offered a path to righteousness, enabling them to turn away from wickedness and live in accordance with God's will. As Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 5:21, "God made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God" .

Conclusion

The biblical narrative consistently portrays God's hatred of wickedness as an integral aspect of His character. His opposition to sin is rooted in His holiness and desire for a righteous relationship with humanity. Through the provision of salvation in Jesus Christ, God extends an invitation to all to turn from wickedness and embrace a life of holiness.