Topical Encyclopedia Hatred, in the context of biblical teaching, is often viewed as a negative emotion that believers are encouraged to avoid. However, there is a specific form of hatred that is not only justified but also commanded in Scripture: hatred against iniquity. This form of hatred is rooted in a deep love for God and His righteousness, and it reflects a desire to see His holiness upheld.Biblical Foundation The Bible clearly delineates between personal animosity and a righteous indignation against sin. In Psalm 97:10, the psalmist declares, "O you who love the LORD, hate evil! He preserves the souls of His saints; He delivers them from the hand of the wicked." This verse underscores the expectation that those who love God will naturally develop a hatred for evil, as it stands in direct opposition to His nature and commands. Similarly, Proverbs 8:13 states, "To fear the LORD is to hate evil. I hate arrogant pride, evil conduct, and perverse speech." Here, the fear of the Lord is equated with a hatred for evil, suggesting that a reverence for God inherently involves a rejection of sin and iniquity. Jesus' Example Jesus Christ Himself exemplified this righteous hatred against iniquity. In the Gospels, we see instances where Jesus expresses strong opposition to sin and hypocrisy. In Matthew 23, Jesus delivers a series of woes to the scribes and Pharisees, condemning their hypocrisy and unrighteousness. His words reflect a deep-seated opposition to the iniquity that pervaded their religious practices. Moreover, in John 2:13-17, Jesus cleanses the temple, driving out those who were defiling it with commercial activities. His actions were motivated by zeal for His Father's house, as it is written, "Zeal for Your house will consume Me" (John 2:17). This incident illustrates Jesus' intolerance for sin and corruption, especially when it desecrates what is holy. A Call to Believers Believers are called to emulate this divine hatred for iniquity. Romans 12:9 instructs, "Love must be sincere. Detest what is evil; cling to what is good." This passage encourages Christians to cultivate a sincere love that naturally abhors evil, aligning their hearts with God's standards of righteousness. Furthermore, Ephesians 5:11 exhorts believers to "Have no fellowship with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them." This directive not only calls for a personal rejection of sin but also an active stance against it, highlighting the believer's role in confronting and exposing iniquity. The Balance of Love and Hatred While hatred against iniquity is justified, it must be balanced with love and compassion for those ensnared by sin. Jude 1:22-23 advises, "And indeed, have mercy on those who doubt; save others by snatching them from the fire; and to still others, show mercy tempered with fear, hating even the clothing stained by the flesh." This passage emphasizes the importance of showing mercy and seeking the redemption of sinners, even as we maintain a firm stance against the sin itself. In summary, the Bible presents a nuanced understanding of hatred, distinguishing between personal animosity and a righteous indignation against iniquity. This justified hatred is an expression of love for God and His holiness, compelling believers to reject sin and uphold His righteous standards. Nave's Topical Index Psalm 97:10You that love the LORD, hate evil: he preserves the souls of his saints; he delivers them out of the hand of the wicked. Nave's Topical Index Psalm 101:3 Psalm 119:104,128,163 Psalm 139:21,22 Library Article vi: of Confession and Satisfaction. "He is the Rock, his Work is Perfect, for all his Ways are ... Righteous Hatred Against those who Object Because the Devil Has not Been Put Out of ... Why the Son was Sent So Late. On the Offices of Our Lord Jesus Christ The Beginning of Justification. In what Sense Progressive. Knowing that a Man is not Justified by the Work of the Law, but by ... Fruits and the Two Works. The New Heart Resources What does the Bible say about misanthropy? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is misotheism? What is a misotheist? | GotQuestions.org How should a Christian view misandry? | GotQuestions.org Hatred: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Hatred to Christ is on Account of his Testimony Against the World Hatred to Christ is Without Cause Hatred to Christ: Chief Priests Hatred to Christ: Involves: Hatred to his Father Hatred to Christ: Involves: Hatred to his People Hatred to Christ: No Escape for Those Who Persevere In Hatred to Christ: Punishment of Hatred: Against Iniquity, Justified Hatred: Inconsistent With: Liars Prone To Hatred: Inconsistent With: The Knowledge of God Hatred: Inconsistent With: The Love of God Hatred: Often Cloaked by Deceit Hatred: Saints should Give No Cause For Hatred: Saints should not Marvel At Hatred: Saints should not Rejoice in the Calamities of Those Who Exhibit Hatred: Saints should Return Good For Hatred: Scriptures Relating To Hatred: The Wicked Exhibit: Towards Each Other Hatred: The Wicked Exhibit: Towards God Hatred: The Wicked Exhibit: Towards Saints Hatred: we should Exhibit Against: Backsliding Hatred: we should Exhibit Against: Evil Hatred: we should Exhibit Against: False Ways Hatred: we should Exhibit Against: Hatred and Opposition to God Hatred: we should Exhibit Against: Lying Related Terms |
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