Over the years we have seen a growing hostility to the Christian message. More and more, as believers present the truth of Scripture, such ideas are increasingly unwelcome. The common critique is that the biblical message is hateful. Rather than debating the ideas, many label believers as “hateful” and end the discussion altogether.

Are God’s truths really hateful? Is the Bible a book that teaches hate?

Disagreement Isn’t Hate

Hate is defined in the dictionary as “intense hostility” and “extreme dislike or disgust.” Using this definition, it is important to know that Christians do not hate those they disagree with. In fact, the reason we argue for biblical principles, even though they are unpopular, is not because we hate but because we love. It would be much easier and more convenient to remain silent on the issues and avoid the pushback. In love, we sacrifice such ease for the good of others.

Love does not always mean agreement. It does not always lead to acceptance of every idea. I love my kids greatly, but I do not always agree with them. In fact, it is my job to teach them when they are wrong and lead them down a better road. Do they always like or appreciate it? Not in the moment. Does it always feel good or loving to them? No, but it is what is best for them. I would rather truly love them and do what is best for them, even if it upsets them, than to agree with everything they think, give them everything they want, and lead them down a path of destruction.

Speaking Truth Is an Act of Love

In today’s culture, biblical teaching regarding sexuality and gender is one area the world finds extremely “hateful.” If Christians are faithful to proclaim God’s Word in these areas, they may be dismissed as hateful and even violent.

Speaking out in truth does not mean Christians hate these groups of people, it means we love them and want them to know that God’s ways are always better. Going against God’s design will never make anyone happy, it will never give lasting satisfaction. Yes, people have the freedom to make their own choices, but we want them to know that certain roads lead to destruction.

The world will teach that living a particular lifestyle will give ultimate peace and make people “who they truly are,” but these promises do not come true and they will continue to be discontent. Like the proverbial donkey chasing the carrot, they will always be almost there, while never arriving.

Christ Was Hated

Many think that if Christians were more Christlike then they would not be seen as “hateful.” These voices try to separate the teaching of Scripture from Christ, even though Christ affirmed the whole Bible as written by the Holy Spirit.

What happened to Christ when He came to earth? He was killed. The world did not like His ideas. When Christians are walking with Christ, our ideas will not be accepted by the world. We will be seen as hateful and the world will stop at nothing to silence us. We should not be surprised, they did the same to Christ. Even though He preached love, grace, and forgiveness, while never calling for violence, the world still hated Him.

Keep Loving

The world has found different ways to find fault with the Christian message across history. Today, we may be viewed as “hateful,” tomorrow it may be something else. Whatever the world says, the believer is called to continue to love others and speak the truth in love. We never call for violence against those we disagree with, though we are often accused of it. We preach a message of love, grace, repentance, and forgiveness from sin. We desire the best for every single person for the glory of God. God’s ways will not always make sense to a rebellious world, but as we speak the truth in love, some will hear and some will believe.

Christian, do not compromise the Word of God. There will be times when it is tempting to do so out of a false sense of “love” or “compassion.” Speak the truth in love no matter the consequences. Out of love for God and love for neighbor continue in faithfulness, and let the Holy Spirit use you as He so desires.