Hatred and strife are themes that recur throughout the Bible, often depicted as destructive forces that can lead individuals and communities away from God's intended path of love, peace, and unity. The Scriptures provide numerous warnings and teachings about the dangers associated with these negative emotions and behaviors.

Old Testament Insights

In the Old Testament, hatred is frequently associated with violence and discord. Proverbs 10:12 states, "Hatred stirs up dissension, but love covers all transgressions." This verse highlights the divisive nature of hatred, contrasting it with the unifying power of love. The account of Cain and Abel in Genesis 4 serves as an early example of how unchecked hatred can lead to tragic outcomes. Cain's jealousy and hatred towards his brother Abel culminated in the first murder, illustrating the destructive potential of harboring such emotions.

The Psalms and Proverbs often address the consequences of strife. Proverbs 15:18 notes, "A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, but he who is slow to anger calms a dispute." This wisdom literature emphasizes the importance of self-control and the dangers of allowing anger to fester into strife. The psalmist also prays for deliverance from those who "devise evil in their hearts and stir up war every day" (Psalm 140:2), recognizing the turmoil that strife can bring to a community.

New Testament Teachings

The New Testament continues to warn against hatred and strife, urging believers to pursue peace and love. Jesus' teachings in the Sermon on the Mount address the heart's condition, emphasizing reconciliation over anger. In Matthew 5:22 , Jesus warns, "But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment." This teaching underscores the seriousness of harboring anger and hatred, which can lead to spiritual and relational consequences.

The Apostle Paul frequently addresses the dangers of strife in his epistles. In Galatians 5:19-21 , he lists "hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions" among the acts of the flesh, warning that "those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God." Paul contrasts these with the fruit of the Spirit, which includes love, peace, and gentleness, urging believers to live by the Spirit and avoid the destructive works of the flesh.

James, the brother of Jesus, also speaks to the issue of strife in the church. In James 3:16 , he writes, "For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice." This passage highlights the chaos and moral decay that can result from unchecked strife and jealousy within a community.

The Call to Love and Unity

Throughout the Bible, the antidote to hatred and strife is love and unity. Jesus commands His followers to love one another as He has loved them (John 13:34), setting a standard of sacrificial love that transcends personal grievances and conflicts. The early church is exhorted to maintain unity and peace, as seen in Ephesians 4:3 : "Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace."

The biblical narrative consistently calls believers to reject hatred and strife, embracing instead the virtues of love, patience, and forgiveness. By doing so, they reflect the character of Christ and fulfill God's desire for harmonious relationships among His people.