Positive and Negative Aspects of Hatred

Biblically speaking, hatred has both positive and negative dimensions. It is acceptable to hate those things that God hates; indeed, this reflects our alignment with God’s righteous standards. The psalmist declares, “Let those who love the Lord hate evil” (Psalm 97:10a).

As we draw closer to the Lord and deepen our fellowship with Him, our sensitivity to sin—both within ourselves and in the world—increases. We grieve when God’s name is dishonored, when we witness spiritual hypocrisy, and when we encounter unbelief and godlessness. Our understanding of God’s attributes and love for His character compels us to abhor anything contrary to His Word and nature.

Negative Hatred Directed Against Others

However, negative hatred is that which is directed toward fellow human beings. Jesus Himself addresses this in the Sermon on the Mount: “But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment” (Matthew 5:22).

Not only are we called to reconcile with our brother or sister before approaching the Lord, but we are also urged to do so promptly (Matthew 5:23-26). While outright murder is condemned, hatred itself is a “heart” sin.

Any hateful thought or action is akin to murder in God’s eyes, and justice will ultimately be demanded—perhaps not in this life, but certainly at the final judgment.

Walking in Darkness

Hatred before God is heinous. The apostle John emphasizes that a person who harbors hatred is walking in darkness, as opposed to the light (1 John 2:9, 11). The gravest situation occurs when someone outwardly professes religion but remains at enmity with their brother or sister. Such a person is a liar, deceiving others but not God (1 John 4:20). Many believers live for years, maintaining a facade of well-being, only to be exposed because they secretly harbor enmity (hatred) toward a fellow believer.

The Poison of Hatred

Hatred acts as a poison, corroding us from within. It breeds bitterness that consumes our hearts and minds. The Scriptures wisely caution us not to allow a “root of bitterness” to take hold in our hearts (Hebrews 12:15). Furthermore, hatred disrupts our personal witness as Christians, distancing us from fellowship with the Lord and other believers.

Keeping Short Accounts

In light of these truths, let us heed the Lord’s advice: Keep short accounts with everyone, regardless of how small the matter may seem. The Lord remains faithful to forgive, as He has promised (1 John 1:9; 2:1). May we choose love over hatred, forgiveness over bitterness, and reconciliation over enmity. Because hatred only affects your life, not the one you hate, in a sense you are a captive to hatred, and you need to become free from that hatred. The act of forgiveness frees your heart from hatred and the darkness that you walk in.