The “business of politics” has often used hatred as a tool to fundraise, gain favor in elections, and amass wealth and power. There is nothing like stoking a polarizing issue to galvanize a base and attract donations. By framing the opposition as a threat, a sense of urgency can be created that motivates supporters to contribute financially. One element in the use of hatred as a political tool is the accompanying “sense of urgency” threat. It is the classic way fraudsters lie. Remember, an effective lie can gain access to bank accounts and steal personal information. The exploitation of urgency works. When you see it, beware! In today’s highly connected world, data analytics facilitates sending tailored messages that resonate with specific groups’ fears and prejudices, increasing the likelihood of gaining attention. Attack ads and negative campaigning can sway voters by focusing on the perceived flaws and dangers posed by opponents. This strategy often appeals to voters’ emotions, particularly when paired with fear and anger.
A good biblical example is the story of Jezebel and Naboth’s Vineyard in 1 Kings 21. Jezebel, the wife of King Ahab, orchestrated a plot to falsely accuse Naboth of blasphemy and treason, leading to his execution. This allowed Ahab to seize Naboth’s vineyard. This story illustrates how hatred and greed can be used to manipulate and gain power and wealth. It was straightforward how Jezebel’s strategy worked. See Lostpine’s Study: Who Was Ahab? to see how the story ends.
Jezebel used false accusations to incite hatred against Naboth, which turned people against him and led to his unjust death. This biblical story highlights the abuse of power and authority to achieve personal gain and shows the moral corruption that can arise from unchecked hatred and greed. It began with a simple lie:
(1 Kings 21:9-10)1NIV New International Version Translations – “Proclaim a day of fasting and seat Naboth in a prominent place among the people. But seat two scoundrels opposite him and have them bring charges that he has cursed both God and the king. Then take him out and stone him to death.”
It started with the proclamation of good intentions: to honor the King. However, Jezebel’s motives were much sinister. Jezebel’s true motives became apparent after the “assassination” was completed.
(1 Kings 21:15-16) – “As soon as Jezebel heard that Naboth had been stoned to death, she said to Ahab, ‘Get up and take possession of the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite that he refused to sell you. He is no longer alive, but dead.’ When Ahab heard that Naboth was dead, he got up and went down to take possession of Naboth’s vineyard.”
Today, we still stone people but do so through character assassination. Media platforms can amplify hate messages, reaching a broader audience and solidifying someone’s power base. This increased visibility can also lead to lucrative book deals, speaking engagements, and other financial opportunities. Some become news anchors on major networks. By financing provided through powerful interest groups, people can secure substantial financial backing. This support can translate into campaign contributions and great personal wealth.
Of course, we have what may be the most notable story on the business of hatred in the Bible. The business of stirring up hatred played a significant role in the events leading to Jesus’ crucifixion. The religious leaders of the time, particularly the chief priests and Pharisees, felt threatened by Jesus’s growing influence and His challenges to their authority. They sought to turn public opinion against Him by accusing him of blasphemy and claiming he was a threat to Roman rule. During His trial, the crowd was incited to demand his crucifixion, even though Pilate, the Roman governor, found no fault in Him. This manipulation of public sentiment was crucial in ensuring that Jesus was sentenced to death. Frightening, isn’t it, the power of hate!
In Matthew 27:11-26, you can find the details of Jesus’ trial before Pilate, the crowd’s demand for His crucifixion, and Pilate’s reluctant decision to hand Him over. Like Matthew, Mark 15:1-15 describes the trial, the accusations, and the crowd’s insistence on crucifixion. All this was reinforced by Pilate’s attempts to release Jesus (Luke 23:1-25) and the crowd’s persistent calls for His crucifixion. Finally, we see the pure impact of hatred at work. John’s Gospel (John 19:1-16) provides a detailed account of the trial, including Pilate’s interactions with Jesus and the crowd’s demands. These passages collectively offer a comprehensive view of how hatred and manipulation played a role in Jesus’ crucifixion.
Our society’s concern today is understanding the risks and damage of hatred. Hate and discrimination can create a toxic work environment, decreasing productivity and morale. Businesses must navigate laws related to hate speech and discrimination. Failure to comply can result in legal consequences and damage a company’s reputation. Companies are increasingly expected to stand against hate and promote diversity and inclusion. Yet, the premise of diversity and inclusion programs is too often founded on principles of hatred themselves. The risks of a society engulfed in wars of hatred can have severe mental health impacts on the people within those same societies, resulting in stress, anxiety, and depression.
Our goal then should be to understand our God’s opinion on hatred. Proverbs 6:16-19 lists things the Lord hates, including haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood. King David reminds us in Psalm 5:5 that “The arrogant cannot stand in your presence. You hate all who do wrong.” God, therefore, hates sin. God hates the business of sin. And therefore, “God hates the business of hate.”
Bible Verses Summarizing the Business of Hatred
1 John 3:15 – “Anyone who hates a brother or sister is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life in him.”
Matthew 5:43-44 – “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
Proverbs 10:12 – “Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs.”
Ephesians 4:31 – “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.“
Romans 13:10 – “Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.”
Contemplations
- How did the religious leaders use hatred to manipulate public opinion against Jesus?
- Ideas to Explore: What tactics were used by the chief priests and Pharisees, such as false accusations and inciting the crowd, and discuss how these actions reflect the misuse of power and influence.
- What are some modern examples of how hatred is used to manipulate or control people?
- Ideas to Explore: Use our current media for ideas.
- How can we, as Christians, respond to situations where hatred is being stirred up around us?
- Ideas to Explore: What are practical ways to counteract hatred with love and truth, drawing on biblical principles and examples from Jesus’s life and teachings?
- What does the Bible teach us about the consequences of harboring hatred in our hearts?
- Ideas to Explore: Read passages such as 1 John 3:15 and Matthew 5:21-22. What is hatred’s spiritual and relational impact, and what is the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation?
- 1NIV New International Version Translations