Topical Encyclopedia Hatred, as described in the Bible, is a profound and intense aversion or hostility towards others, often manifesting in actions and attitudes that are contrary to the teachings of Christ. It is considered a work of the flesh, a term used in Scripture to describe behaviors and attitudes that are opposed to the Spirit of God and the life He desires for His followers.Biblical Definition and Context In Galatians 5:19-21, the Apostle Paul lists the "works of the flesh," among which hatred is prominently featured: "The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God" . Here, hatred is grouped with other destructive behaviors that stem from a sinful nature, highlighting its severity and the spiritual danger it poses. Old Testament Insights The Old Testament provides numerous insights into the nature and consequences of hatred. Proverbs 10:12 states, "Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers all offenses" . This verse contrasts hatred with love, emphasizing that while hatred leads to strife and division, love has the power to heal and reconcile. The destructive power of hatred is further illustrated in the account of Cain and Abel, where Cain's hatred leads to the first murder (Genesis 4:3-8). New Testament Teachings Jesus Christ, in His teachings, directly addresses the issue of hatred. In the Sermon on the Mount, He elevates the commandment against murder by addressing the root cause: "But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment" (Matthew 5:22). Here, Jesus equates unjust anger and hatred with the act of murder, underscoring the seriousness of harboring such feelings. The Apostle John also speaks extensively about hatred, particularly in the context of Christian love and fellowship. In 1 John 3:15, he writes, "Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that eternal life does not reside in a murderer" . This stark statement reinforces the idea that hatred is incompatible with the life of a believer and the love of God. Spiritual Implications Hatred is not only a personal sin but also a communal one, affecting relationships within the body of Christ. It disrupts unity and hinders the witness of the church. Ephesians 4:31-32 exhorts believers 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 passage calls for the rejection of hatred and the cultivation of forgiveness and kindness, reflecting the character of Christ. Overcoming Hatred The Bible provides guidance for overcoming hatred through the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 12:21 encourages believers, "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good" . This involves actively choosing love and forgiveness over hatred and revenge. The fruit of the Spirit, as listed in Galatians 5:22-23, includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, all of which stand in stark contrast to the works of the flesh. In summary, hatred is a destructive force that is antithetical to the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. It is a work of the flesh that believers are called to reject, replacing it with love and forgiveness through the power of the Holy Spirit. Torrey's Topical Textbook Galatians 5:20Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, jealousies, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Torrey's Topical Textbook Library "Who Walk not after the Flesh, but after the Spirit. " The Testament of Gad Concerning Hatred. No Man Hates his Own Flesh, not Even those who Abuse It. On Human Temptations. The Regenerating Work of the Holy Spirit. The Word Made Flesh. Christ's Work of Destruction and Deliverance. Rev. John H. James. The World's Hatred, as Christ Saw It The Bishop at Work St. Ambrose Shows by Instances that the Places in which those ... Resources Does God hate? If God is love, how can He hate? | GotQuestions.orgHow does love cover all wrongs (Proverbs 10:12)? | GotQuestions.org What did Jesus mean when He instructed us to hate our father and mother (Luke 14:26)? | 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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