Hatred is a powerful and destructive emotion that the Bible warns against repeatedly. Scripture teaches that hatred towards others is contrary to God’s will and leads to division, pain, and ultimately, spiritual death.
The Bible encourages believers to replace hatred with love, forgiveness, and compassion, reflecting God’s love for humanity. The following 30 Bible verses address the issue of hatred towards others, offering guidance on overcoming this harmful emotion and promoting peace, reconciliation, and love. Each verse is accompanied by an 80-word commentary to help you understand and apply these teachings.
1. 1 John 4:20
“If someone says, ‘I love God,’ and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen?”
The inconsistency of hatred with Christian faith. John strongly condemns hatred towards others, emphasizing that it is incompatible with a genuine love for God. This verse teaches that true love for God must be reflected in our relationships with others. Believers are challenged to examine their hearts and eliminate any hatred, as it reveals a lack of understanding of God’s love. It serves as a reminder that our love for God is demonstrated through our love and compassion for others.
2. Proverbs 10:12
“Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all sins.”
The destructive power of hatred. This proverb highlights the contrast between the effects of hatred and love. Hatred leads to conflict and division, while love fosters forgiveness and reconciliation. Believers are encouraged to choose love over hatred, recognizing that love has the power to heal and bring peace. This verse serves as a reminder that harboring hatred only leads to further discord, whereas love can transform relationships and bring about unity and harmony.
3. Matthew 5:44
“But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.”
The radical call to love enemies. Jesus teaches that love should extend even to those who hate us, challenging the natural inclination to retaliate or hold grudges. This verse emphasizes the importance of responding to hatred with love, blessing, and prayer. Believers are called to rise above hatred and show God’s love to everyone, including their enemies. It serves as a powerful reminder that love is the most effective response to hatred and can lead to transformation and reconciliation.
4. 1 John 2:9
“He who says he is in the light, and hates his brother, is in darkness until now.”
Hatred as a sign of spiritual darkness. John warns that hatred towards others is a clear indicator of living in spiritual darkness, regardless of one’s professed faith. This verse challenges believers to reflect on their relationships and attitudes, recognizing that hatred is incompatible with walking in God’s light. It serves as a reminder that true faith is evidenced by love, and that harboring hatred keeps us separated from the life and light that God desires for us.
5. Leviticus 19:17
“You shall not hate your brother in your heart. You shall surely rebuke your neighbor, and not bear sin because of him.”
The command to reject hatred. This verse from Leviticus instructs believers not to harbor hatred in their hearts but to address issues directly and constructively. It emphasizes the importance of resolving conflicts and preventing hatred from taking root. Believers are encouraged to confront wrongs in a spirit of love and reconciliation, rather than allowing hatred to fester. This verse serves as a reminder that unresolved anger and bitterness can lead to sin, and that open, honest communication is essential for healthy relationships.
6. Proverbs 26:24
“He who hates, disguises it with his lips, and lays up deceit within himself.”
The deceitfulness of hidden hatred. This proverb warns against the dangers of concealed hatred, which often leads to deceit and further harm. Hatred that is not addressed openly can manifest in destructive ways, damaging relationships and trust. Believers are encouraged to confront and resolve their feelings of hatred, rather than hiding them behind false words. This verse serves as a reminder that honesty and transparency are crucial in dealing with negative emotions and maintaining healthy, loving relationships.
7. 1 John 3:15
“Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.”
The seriousness of hatred. John equates hatred with murder, emphasizing its destructive power and the grave spiritual consequences it carries. This verse challenges believers to recognize the severity of harboring hatred towards others, as it reflects a heart far from God’s love and eternal life. Believers are called to replace hatred with love, understanding that unchecked hatred can lead to spiritual death. It serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of love and forgiveness in the Christian life.
8. Matthew 6:14-15
“For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”
The necessity of forgiveness. Jesus teaches that our willingness to forgive others is directly related to our own experience of God’s forgiveness. This verse highlights the importance of letting go of hatred and extending forgiveness, as our own forgiveness from God is contingent upon it. Believers are encouraged to forgive those who have wronged them, understanding that holding onto hatred hinders their relationship with God. It serves as a powerful reminder that forgiveness is essential to living in God’s grace and love.
9. Colossians 3:8
“But now you yourselves are to put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language out of your mouth.”
The call to renounce hatred and anger. Paul urges believers to rid themselves of negative emotions and behaviors, including anger and malice, which often stem from hatred. This verse emphasizes the importance of actively rejecting attitudes that lead to hatred and division. Believers are called to cultivate a spirit of love, peace, and kindness, replacing harmful behaviors with those that reflect Christ’s character. It serves as a reminder that living a life pleasing to God requires the intentional rejection of hatred and its associated behaviors.
10. Ephesians 4:31-32
“Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.”
The transformation from hatred to kindness. Paul instructs believers to remove all forms of hatred, including bitterness and malice, and to replace them with kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. This verse highlights the importance of reflecting God’s forgiveness in our relationships with others. Believers are encouraged to let go of hatred and embrace a spirit of love and mercy, just as they have received from Christ. It serves as a reminder that a Christ-like attitude involves the rejection of hatred and the practice of unconditional love and forgiveness.
11. Romans 12:19
“Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord.”
Leaving vengeance to God. Paul advises believers not to seek revenge or harbor hatred, but to trust in God’s justice. This verse emphasizes that taking matters into our own hands only perpetuates the cycle of hatred and violence. Believers are encouraged to leave justice in God’s hands, trusting that He will deal with wrongdoers according to His perfect will. It serves as a reminder that responding to hatred with love and patience allows God’s justice to prevail, rather than our own flawed judgment.
12. 1 Peter 3:9
“Not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.”
The call to bless rather than curse. Peter instructs believers to respond to hatred and evil with blessings, reflecting their calling to be a light in the world. This verse challenges the natural inclination to retaliate, urging believers to break the cycle of hatred by choosing to bless those who wrong them. Believers are reminded that they are called to a higher standard of conduct, one that reflects God’s love and grace. It serves as an encouragement to respond to hatred with kindness and forgiveness.
13. Proverbs 15:1
“A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
The power of gentle responses. This proverb highlights the effectiveness of a gentle response in diffusing anger and preventing the escalation of hatred. Harsh words can exacerbate conflict, while soft, kind words can de-escalate tensions and promote peace. Believers are encouraged to choose their words carefully, especially in situations of conflict, to avoid stirring up further anger and hatred. It serves as a reminder that gentleness and wisdom in communication can prevent the growth of hatred and foster reconciliation.
14. Galatians 5:19-21
“Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.”
The dangers of living according to the flesh. Paul lists hatred among the works of the flesh, warning that those who engage in such behaviors will not inherit God’s kingdom. This verse underscores the seriousness of harboring hatred and other sinful attitudes, which are incompatible with a life led by the Spirit. Believers are called to reject the works of the flesh and to live according to the Spirit, producing fruits of love, joy, and peace. It serves as a stark reminder that hatred leads to spiritual death.
15. 1 Corinthians 13:5
“Love does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil.”
The nature of love. Paul’s description of love in 1 Corinthians 13 highlights that true love does not harbor evil thoughts or act rudely, both of which are often associated with hatred. This verse emphasizes that love is selfless, patient, and kind, standing in direct opposition to hatred. Believers are encouraged to cultivate this kind of love in their relationships, rejecting any form of hatred or malice. It serves as a reminder that love is the ultimate antidote to hatred and is central to the Christian life.
16. Psalm 109:3-5
“They have also surrounded me with words of hatred, and fought against me without a cause. In return for my love they are my accusers, but I give myself to prayer. Thus they have rewarded me evil for good, and hatred for my love.”
Responding to hatred with prayer. The psalmist expresses the pain of being hated and falsely accused despite offering love. However, instead of responding with hatred, the psalmist turns to prayer. This verse highlights the power of prayer as a response to unjust hatred, trusting in God’s justice rather than seeking revenge. Believers are encouraged to follow this example, responding to hatred with love and prayer, rather than retaliation. It serves as a reminder that prayer is a powerful tool in overcoming hatred and finding peace.
17. Titus 3:3
“For we ourselves were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful and hating one another.”
The transformation from hatred to love. Paul reminds believers of their past lives, characterized by hatred and malice, and contrasts it with their new life in Christ. This verse emphasizes that hatred is part of the old, sinful nature that believers have been called to leave behind. Believers are encouraged to embrace their new identity in Christ, marked by love, kindness, and forgiveness. It serves as a reminder of the transformative power of the Gospel, which replaces hatred with love and unity.
18. Proverbs 14:21
“He who despises his neighbor sins; but he who has mercy on the poor, happy is he.”
The sin of despising others. This proverb warns that hatred or contempt for others, particularly neighbors, is sinful and contrary to God’s will. It contrasts this attitude with the blessing of showing mercy and compassion. Believers are encouraged to treat others with kindness and respect, recognizing that hatred is not only harmful but also displeasing to God. This verse serves as a reminder that happiness and fulfillment are found in loving and serving others, not in harboring hatred or contempt.
19. 1 John 3:11
“For this is the message that you heard from the beginning, that we should love one another.”
The enduring command to love. John reiterates the fundamental Christian command to love one another, which stands in direct opposition to hatred. This verse emphasizes that love is not just an ideal but a command that has been central to the Christian faith from the beginning. Believers are called to live out this command in their daily lives, rejecting any form of hatred or animosity. It serves as a reminder that the essence of the Christian life is love, which fulfills all of God’s commandments.
20. Proverbs 24:17
“Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and do not let your heart be glad when he stumbles.”
The wrongness of celebrating others’ misfortune. This proverb warns against taking pleasure in the downfall of others, even enemies. Rejoicing in someone’s misfortune is a form of hatred and is contrary to the spirit of love that God calls believers to embody. Believers are encouraged to show compassion and restraint, even towards those who have wronged them. This verse serves as a reminder that love seeks the good of others, including enemies, and does not take pleasure in their suffering.
21. Romans 13:10
“Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.”
The law of love. Paul teaches that love inherently avoids harm to others, thereby fulfilling the law’s requirements. This verse highlights the contrast between love and hatred, emphasizing that love is the foundation of all ethical behavior. Believers are encouraged to let love guide their actions, ensuring that they cause no harm to others. It serves as a reminder that living in love is the highest expression of obedience to God’s commands, and it leaves no room for hatred.
22. Proverbs 10:18
“Whoever hides hatred has lying lips, and whoever spreads slander is a fool.”
The deceitfulness of hidden hatred. This proverb warns against the dangers of concealing hatred, which often leads to dishonesty and slander. Hidden hatred can manifest in harmful ways, damaging relationships and reputations. Believers are encouraged to confront and resolve their feelings of hatred, rather than allowing them to fester in secret. This verse serves as a reminder that honesty and integrity are essential in dealing with negative emotions, and that unresolved hatred can lead to further sin and folly.
23. Ephesians 4:26-27
“Be angry, and do not sin: do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil.”
The importance of resolving anger quickly. Paul acknowledges that anger is a natural emotion but warns against allowing it to turn into sin, such as hatred or resentment. This verse emphasizes the importance of dealing with anger promptly, to prevent it from giving the devil a foothold in our lives. Believers are encouraged to resolve conflicts and release anger before it turns into lasting hatred. It serves as a reminder that unresolved anger can lead to greater sin and spiritual harm.
24. James 1:19-20
“So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.”
The futility of human anger. James advises believers to be slow to anger, recognizing that human wrath does not lead to the righteousness that God desires. This verse highlights the destructive nature of anger and hatred, which often result in actions and attitudes that are contrary to God’s will. Believers are encouraged to exercise patience and self-control, avoiding the quick escalation to anger and hatred. It serves as a reminder that righteousness is cultivated through love, patience, and understanding, not through wrath.
25. 1 Peter 2:1
“Therefore, laying aside all malice, all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and all evil speaking.”
The call to renounce harmful behaviors. Peter urges believers to rid themselves of malice and other harmful behaviors that are rooted in hatred. This verse emphasizes the importance of actively rejecting negative attitudes and actions that harm others and hinder spiritual growth. Believers are encouraged to pursue a life of love, sincerity, and kindness, reflecting Christ’s character. It serves as a reminder that the Christian life involves a conscious effort to eliminate hatred and its associated behaviors, replacing them with love and righteousness.
26. Matthew 5:21-22
“You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder, and whoever murders will be in danger of the judgment.’ But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment.”
The danger of unchecked anger. Jesus expands on the commandment against murder, teaching that even unjustified anger and hatred towards others can lead to judgment. This verse emphasizes the seriousness of harboring hatred, which can have spiritual consequences similar to those of more overt sins. Believers are called to examine their hearts and address any feelings of anger or hatred before they lead to further sin. It serves as a reminder that God values the purity of our hearts as much as our outward actions.
27. Proverbs 17:9
“He who covers a transgression seeks love, but he who repeats a matter separates friends.”
The importance of forgiveness over hatred. This proverb highlights the value of forgiveness and reconciliation, contrasting it with the destructive effects of harboring and spreading grudges. Covering a transgression refers to forgiving and moving past offenses, which fosters love and unity. Repeating matters, on the other hand, stirs up division and perpetuates hatred. Believers are encouraged to choose forgiveness and to let go of past offenses, promoting peace and harmony. It serves as a reminder that love and forgiveness are essential in maintaining healthy relationships.
28. Proverbs 16:28
“A perverse man sows strife, and a whisperer separates the best of friends.”
The destructive power of gossip and hatred. This proverb warns against the harmful effects of gossip and malicious talk, which can destroy even the closest of relationships. Whispering, or speaking ill of others in secret, often stems from hatred and leads to division and strife. Believers are encouraged to guard their tongues and avoid spreading negativity that can harm relationships. This verse serves as a reminder that words have the power to build up or tear down, and that promoting peace requires rejecting gossip and slander.
29. 1 Timothy 2:8
“I desire therefore that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.”
The call to prayer without anger. Paul urges believers to approach God in prayer with pure hearts, free from anger and resentment. This verse emphasizes the importance of letting go of wrath and hatred before coming to God in prayer, ensuring that our worship and petitions are sincere and unhindered by negative emotions. Believers are encouraged to cultivate a spirit of peace and trust, avoiding the hindrances of anger and doubt. It serves as a reminder that true worship involves both outward actions and inner purity.
30. Romans 12:21
“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
The power of good over evil. Paul teaches that the best way to combat hatred and evil is by responding with goodness and love. This verse emphasizes the importance of not allowing hatred or evil to dominate our hearts, but instead actively choosing to do good in the face of wrongdoing.
Believers are encouraged to break the cycle of hatred by practicing love, kindness, and forgiveness, even towards those who have wronged them. It serves as a reminder that love is the most powerful force for overcoming hatred and evil.
These Bible verses about hatred towards others provide valuable insights into the dangers of harboring negative emotions and the importance of replacing them with love, forgiveness, and compassion.
Scripture teaches that hatred is incompatible with the Christian life and encourages believers to pursue peace, reconciliation, and the transformative power of God’s love. By reflecting on these verses, believers can cultivate a heart that reflects Christ’s love, breaking the cycle of hatred and promoting a spirit of unity and peace.
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