Loving Your Way Out of Hatred

Jesus told the disciples that if the world “hated” them they should understand that it hated Him first (Jn. 15:18). Hatred was a part of Jesus’ world. It fact it has been a characterization of the “world” from the time of creation to the recording of current events.

Tensions seem especially high at this time in our nation. It appears that almost daily another group is identifying something in society that they have the “right” to “hate.” Ironically, the collective groups standing up against the hatred they claim to be practiced by others – easily become as much a hate group as those they oppose.

Fixing the shortcomings of society is not the goal of this lesson nor the objective of this series. However, it does not appear likely that we are going to legislate our way out of hatred. It doesn’t look like hate-hating groups marching in protest to the hate they perceive in others is going to bring much resolve either.

Hatred can only effectively be dealt with by utilizing the principles of love established by the Creator. Therein lies the purpose for this series of lessons. Truly conquering hate is not an achievement attained within today’s relativism or humanistic philosophies. However, the instructions on how to become people controlled by divine love, do outline the way to “love our way out of hatred.” John puts it well when he writes, “God is love, and the one who remains in love remains in God, and God remains in him” (1Jn. 4:16). When living a life filled with God’s love there is little room left for hatred!

Looking for the means of overpowering hate? Look up – to the One who is love! Look in – the instructions recorded in the Spirit of His love! Look deep – into yourself and see if obedience or hatred has the stronger grip on your heart! This lesson serves as an introduction our upcoming series.