Does God hate Satan?

Question

 

Gramps,

Does God Hate Satan?

ElderBuz

 

Answer

 

ElderBuz,

To comprehend the commandment to love our enemies, we must first understand what love means in a divine context. The Church teaches that love is not merely an emotion but is expressed through actions and blessings. “If I ‘love’ my wife and children but do absolutely nothing to make their lives better, of what effect is my ‘love’?” This perspective emphasizes that love is inherently tied to the well-being of others, and it is through our actions that we demonstrate our love.

Divine love, as articulated in the scriptures, is often conditional. Elder Russell M. Nelson, in a 2003 Ensign article, stated that while divine love can be described as perfect and universal, it cannot be characterized as unconditional. The scriptures do not use the term “unconditional love,” and many verses affirm that the higher levels of love from God come with conditions. This understanding is crucial when considering the relationship between God, Jesus, and Satan.

In the teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, there exists a clear dichotomy between good and evil. God is the embodiment of all truth, goodness, and joy, while Satan represents the antithesis of these qualities—lies, evil, and misery. This opposition is not merely philosophical; it is a fundamental aspect of the mortal experience. The Church teaches that this world is a unique sphere where individuals can choose between good and evil, and this choice is essential for spiritual growth.

Satan, as the archenemy of God, is not a being that can be loved in the same way that we are commanded to love our fellow beings. The Church teaches that Satan’s actions are always motivated by evil intent, and any appearance of good is merely a facade to lead others astray. Thus, while we are commanded to love our enemies—those who may oppose us in this life—this does not extend to loving the embodiment of evil itself.

The commandment to love our enemies, found in Matthew 5:44, is often cited in discussions about love and enmity. Jesus teaches, “But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.” This commandment is rooted in the understanding that our “enemies” are often our brothers and sisters in spirit, and the purpose of this love is to foster reconciliation and understanding.

In this mortal probation, we are allowed to choose love over hatred, even towards those who may oppose us. The Church teaches that this life is not a time of condemnation but a time of hope, learning, and choosing. By loving our enemies, we reflect the divine love that God has for all His children, offering them the chance for redemption and reconciliation.

While the commandment to love our enemies is clear, it is essential to understand the balance between justice and mercy in the context of divine love. The Church teaches that God’s love is expressed through blessings, which include both kindness and chastening. As noted in Helaman 15:3-4, God’s love for the Nephites was demonstrated through both blessings and chastening, while His “hatred” for the Lamanites referred to the absence of blessings due to their continual evil deeds.

This perspective highlights that love is not always about unconditional acceptance; it can also involve correction and guidance. The expectation of righteousness and obedience often accompanies the divine love that God extends to His children. Those who choose to follow Satan and reject God’s gifts effectively remove themselves from the conditions of divine love.

Satan, as the embodiment of evil, is not a figure that can be loved in the same way that we are commanded to love our fellow beings. The Church teaches that Satan’s actions are always motivated by evil intent, and any appearance of good is merely a facade to lead others astray. This understanding is crucial when considering the relationship between God, Jesus, and Satan.

Satan’s role in the grand scheme of existence is to provide opposition, allowing individuals to exercise their agency and choose between good and evil. This opposition is necessary for spiritual growth, as it helps individuals develop moral strength and resilience. However, this does not mean that God loves Satan or that His love extends to those who choose to follow him.

The teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints emphasize that those who choose to follow Satan will ultimately face the consequences of their actions. As stated in the Doctrine and Covenants, those who reject God’s love and choose to align themselves with Satan will be cast into outer darkness, a place of eternal punishment. This stark reality shows the importance of agency and the choices individuals make in their lives.

While God loves all His children and desires their return to Him, He cannot bless those who choose to align themselves with evil. The love of God is conditional upon acceptance of His gifts and adherence to His commandments. Thus, while we are called to love our enemies, this love does not extend to the embodiment of evil itself.

 

Gramps