Wickedness, as depicted in the Bible, is fundamentally opposed to the nature and will of God. It is characterized by actions, thoughts, and intentions that deviate from God's commandments and moral order. The Scriptures consistently portray wickedness as detestable in the sight of the Lord, emphasizing the profound separation it creates between humanity and God.

Old Testament Perspective

In the Old Testament, wickedness is frequently associated with rebellion against God and His laws. The book of Proverbs provides numerous insights into the nature of wickedness and its consequences. Proverbs 6:16-19 lists things that the Lord hates, including "a heart that devises wicked schemes" and "feet that are quick to rush into evil." These verses highlight the active nature of wickedness, which involves deliberate planning and execution of evil deeds.

The Psalms also reflect on the detestability of wickedness. Psalm 5:4-5 states, "For You are not a God who delights in wickedness; no evil can dwell with You. The boastful cannot stand in Your presence; You hate all workers of iniquity." This passage underscores the incompatibility of wickedness with God's holy presence and His aversion to those who practice it.

The prophets frequently warned Israel about the consequences of wickedness. Isaiah 59:2 declares, "But your iniquities have built barriers between you and your God, and your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He does not hear." Here, wickedness is shown to create a barrier between God and His people, obstructing their relationship and communication with Him.

New Testament Perspective

The New Testament continues to affirm the detestability of wickedness, emphasizing the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice to overcome it. Romans 1:18 states, "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 verse highlights God's active opposition to wickedness and His righteous judgment against those who persist in it.

The teachings of Jesus further illuminate the nature of wickedness. In Matthew 15:19 , Jesus explains, "For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander." Here, wickedness is identified as originating from the heart, indicating its deep-rooted presence in human nature and the need for inner transformation.

The apostle Paul, in his letters, frequently contrasts the works of the flesh with the fruit of the Spirit. Galatians 5:19-21 lists "sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery" among the acts of the flesh, warning that "those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God." This passage underscores the eternal consequences of persisting in wickedness and the necessity of living by the Spirit.

God's Call to Righteousness

Throughout the Bible, God calls His people to reject wickedness and pursue righteousness. Micah 6:8 encapsulates this call: "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" This verse emphasizes the moral and ethical standards God expects from His followers, contrasting sharply with the path of wickedness.

The apostle Peter, in 1 Peter 3:12 , reminds believers of God's attentiveness to the righteous: "For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are inclined to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil." This assurance of God's favor towards the righteous serves as both encouragement and warning, highlighting the detestability of wickedness and the blessings of living in accordance with God's will.