Topical Bible: Hatred: Inconsistent With: Liars Prone To

◄ Hatred: Inconsistent With: Liars Prone To ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

Hatred, as depicted in the Bible, is a powerful and destructive emotion that stands in stark contrast to the teachings of love and truth. The Scriptures consistently warn against harboring hatred, as it is incompatible with the nature of God and the life He calls His followers to lead. In particular, the Bible highlights the inconsistency of hatred with those who are prone to lying, as both are manifestations of a heart not aligned with God's truth.

Biblical Understanding of Hatred

Hatred is often described in the Bible as an emotion that leads to sin and discord. Proverbs 10:12 states, "Hatred stirs up dissension, but love covers all transgressions." This verse underscores the divisive nature of hatred, contrasting it with the unifying power of love. Hatred is seen as a root of many sins, leading to actions that are contrary to God's commandments.

Hatred and Lying

The Bible frequently associates lying with a departure from truth and righteousness. In John 8:44 , Jesus speaks of the devil as "a liar and the father of lies," indicating that lying is fundamentally opposed to God's nature. Those who are prone to lying are often depicted as being aligned with deceit and falsehood, which are incompatible with the truth of God.

The connection between hatred and lying is evident in the way both are seen as expressions of a corrupt heart. In 1 John 2:9 , it is written, "Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates his brother is still in the darkness." This passage highlights the inconsistency of professing faith while harboring hatred, as both lying and hatred are indicative of spiritual darkness.

The Call to Love and Truth

The Bible calls believers to a life marked by love and truth, which stands in opposition to hatred and lying. Ephesians 4:25-27 exhorts, "Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one another. 'Be angry, yet do not sin.' Do not let the sun set upon your anger, and do not give the devil a foothold." This passage encourages believers to reject falsehood and manage emotions like anger, which can lead to hatred if left unchecked.

Furthermore, 1 John 4:20 states, "If anyone says, 'I love God,' but hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen." This verse directly links hatred with lying, emphasizing that true love for God is demonstrated through love for others.

Conclusion

The Bible presents a clear and consistent message that hatred is incompatible with the life of a believer, particularly when coupled with a propensity for lying. Both are seen as expressions of a heart not aligned with God's truth and love. Believers are called to reject these destructive behaviors and instead embrace a life characterized by love, truth, and righteousness, reflecting the nature of God in their interactions with others.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Proverbs 26:28
A lying tongue hates those that are afflicted by it; and a flattering mouth works ruin.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Second Sunday after Epiphany
... Now, they who harbor hatred while pretending to love, or ... It is inconsistent for a
Christian to curse even ... of the devil, hypocrites, blind dolts, liars, and so ...
/.../luther/epistle sermons vol ii/second sunday after epiphany.htm