Topical Encyclopedia Hatred, in the context of biblical teaching, is often viewed as a strong aversion or intense dislike. While the Bible predominantly advocates for love and compassion, there are instances where hatred is deemed appropriate, particularly against falsehood and unrighteousness. This entry explores the biblical perspective on exhibiting hatred against false ways, drawing from scriptural references and theological insights.Biblical Foundation The Bible consistently warns against falsehood and deception, urging believers to discern and reject any form of false teaching or practice. In Psalm 119:104, the psalmist declares, "I gain understanding from Your precepts; therefore I hate every false way." This verse underscores the importance of aligning one's understanding with God's truth, leading to a natural aversion to anything contrary to His Word. Hatred of Falsehood Proverbs 13:5 states, "The righteous hate falsehood, but the wicked bring shame and disgrace." This proverb highlights the moral distinction between the righteous and the wicked, emphasizing that a hatred for falsehood is a characteristic of those who seek to live in accordance with God's righteousness. The righteous are called to detest lies and deceit, recognizing them as tools of the enemy that lead people away from the truth. Jesus' Example Jesus Christ, during His earthly ministry, exemplified a righteous indignation against falsehood and hypocrisy. In Matthew 23, Jesus pronounces a series of woes upon the scribes and Pharisees, condemning their hypocritical practices and false teachings. His strong language and actions in cleansing the temple (Matthew 21:12-13) further illustrate His intolerance for practices that distort true worship and lead people astray. Apostolic Teaching The apostles continued this theme, warning the early church against false teachers and doctrines. In 2 Peter 2:1, Peter cautions, "But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves." The apostolic writings urge believers to be vigilant and to reject any teaching that contradicts the gospel of Christ. Practical Application For believers today, exhibiting hatred against false ways involves a commitment to truth and discernment. This requires a deep understanding of Scripture and a reliance on the Holy Spirit for guidance. Ephesians 5:11 instructs, "Have no fellowship with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them." Christians are called to actively oppose falsehood by living out the truth and exposing deceitful practices. Conclusion While love remains the central tenet of the Christian faith, there is a biblical mandate to hate false ways. This hatred is not directed at individuals but at the falsehoods that lead people away from God's truth. By cultivating a love for God's Word and a hatred for deception, believers can stand firm in their faith and uphold the integrity of the gospel. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 119:104,128Through your precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Second Sunday after Easter The National Preacher. Of Bearing the Cross --One Branch of Self-Denial. Epistle of Paul to the Philippians. Of Bearing the Cross --One Branch of Self-Denial. Of Passages from the Holy Scriptures, and from the Apocrypha ... Of the Power of Making Laws. The Cruelty of the Pope and his ... If it is True that You Write a Letter to Me So as to Admonish Me ... Matt. vii. 1 The Christ of the Gospels. Resources What does the Bible say about self-hatred? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about hate? | GotQuestions.org What is Christianophobia? | 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 |
    |