Is jealousy worse than hatred?

Q: I grew up hearing that jealousy is a worse sin than hatred. Which sin is worse? – H.J.

A: Sin is sin, but it is true that hate knows no bounds. It is in motion at every level. “Look Out for Number One,” has become the motto of scores of people. To make good, they kick anyone who threatens their way of life – no matter how dark.

One of the reasons hatred abounds all over the world stems from jealousy. Satan’s hatred of God was due to jealousy. At no time in history was hatred on display more than during the time of Jesus on Earth. Herod hated Him because of fear that the Baby Jesus would someday become King. Herod caused the slaughter of infant children in and around the village of Bethlehem so that the prophecy would not come to pass.

We are living in a world that hates. We have even seen violence prompted by hatred within church buildings. Hatred is carried out against those who desire more than anything to preach the love of the Lord Jesus Christ and demonstrate compassion for those who suffer.

Hatred is a social cancer that gnaws at the vitals of our people. It threatens the freedom of worshiping Jesus Christ as witnessed in every continent. Hatred is rampant – a sign of the depravity of the human race. The Bible teaches hatred is sin.

The Bible also teaches that God is a God of love (1 John 4:8). Love is a basic part of God’s nature. Whoever you are, whatever your circumstances – God loves you and He is waiting for you to come to Him in repentance of sin. Rejection of Christ is hatred of Him. Say an eternal “Yes” to Christ and make Him the Lord of your life.

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)

©2021 Billy Graham Literary Trust. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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