What does "hate" mean in Luke 14:26 within a biblical context? Setting of the Statement “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, and wife and children, and brothers and sisters—yes, even his own life—he cannot be My disciple.” (Luke 14:26) Jesus is on His way to Jerusalem, speaking to the great crowds about the cost of following Him. His words are jarring by design; He is pressing listeners to weigh allegiance to Him above every earthly tie. Key Term: “Hate” (miseō) • Greek verb miseō literally means “to hate, detest.” • In Semitic usage it also functions idiomatically for “love less,” expressing preference rather than emotional hostility. • Scripture uses this comparative sense when two legitimate loves conflict and one must take precedence. Comparative Language in Scripture • Genesis 29:30-31—Jacob “loved Rachel more than Leah”; yet v. 31 says Leah was “hated.” The contrast shows relative affection, not animosity. • Deuteronomy 21:15-17—The “loved” versus “hated” wives language governs inheritance rights, again meaning the preferred versus the less-preferred. • Matthew 10:37—Jesus restates His demand positively: “He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me.” The same thought clarifies Luke 14:26. • John 12:25—“Whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.” The issue is priority, not contempt for life itself. What Jesus Demands • Supreme allegiance—No relationship, even the most sacred family bonds, may outrank devotion to Christ. • Willing renunciation—When loyalty to loved ones clashes with obedience to Him, a disciple chooses Christ. • Self-denial—“Even his own life” must be subordinated; life plans, comfort, and safety are surrendered to His lordship. Literal Yet Contextual • Jesus’ words are literal: genuine discipleship requires a readiness to “hate” in the comparative sense. • Scripture’s consistent pattern shows this strong term communicates priority rather than sinful malice; thus the literal meaning is grasped within the biblical idiom. • There is no softening of the cost—He calls for a love so singular that every other attachment looks like hate beside it. Applications for Today • Examine priorities: Does any relationship, ambition, or comfort rival Christ’s claim? • Count the cost: Following Jesus may provoke misunderstanding or opposition from those dearest to us. • Love rightly ordered: Cherish family deeply, yet love the Lord so supremely that obedience to Him is never negotiable. |
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