Godly hate is a profound and often misunderstood concept within biblical theology. Scripture reveals that there are aspects of hate that align with God's justice and righteousness. For instance, in Psalms 97:10, it is written, "Let those who love the Lord hate evil," indicating that a true love for God naturally leads to a disdain for sin and injustice. This kind of hate is not rooted in malice but is a passionate response to the corruption that separates humanity from God. Jesus exemplifies this in His teachings, particularly when He calls His followers to prioritize their commitment to Him above all else, as seen in Luke 14:26, where He states, "If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple." Here, the term 'hate' emphasizes the need for radical devotion to Christ. Furthermore, in Romans 12:9, Paul instructs believers to "abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good," reinforcing the idea that a godly disposition includes a strong aversion to sin. Ultimately, godly hate is a reflection of divine love, calling believers to stand firm against evil while embodying the grace and truth of the Gospel.
Jack Hyles preaches on the necessity of having love accompanied by hate, emphasizing that true love cannot exist without hating its opposite. He explains that qualities like patience, courage, gentleness, and kindness must be paired with their potential opposites to be genuine. Hyles highlights the