God loves sinners because He is merciful, compassionate, and not willing that any should perish. At the same time, He hates sin because it is rebellion against His holiness, brings death, and separates people from Him. These two truths do not contradict; they reveal the depth of God’s character: righteous in judgment and rich in mercy.
Romans declares God’s love:
“But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
(Romans 5:8)
This love is not based on merit. It is offered while people are still in sin. God’s desire is not to destroy the sinner but to save him through repentance and faith in Christ.
Yet Scripture also speaks of God’s hatred for sin:
“You are not a God who takes pleasure in wickedness, nor shall evil dwell with You.”
(Psalm 5:4)
Sin is not neutral, it is a violation of God’s law and nature. It destroys lives, distorts truth, and provokes divine wrath.
Proverbs lists what God hates:
“These six things the Lord hates, yes, seven are an abomination to Him: a proud look, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood…”
(Proverbs 6:16–17)
His hatred for sin is not arbitrary. It flows from His holiness and justice.
Some wrongly conclude that if God loves sinners, He must tolerate sin. That is false. His love seeks to save the sinner from sin, not excuse it. Jesus showed this perfectly. He welcomed sinners, yet told them:
“Go and sin no more.”
(John 8:11)
God’s solution to this tension is the cross. He judged sin and offered forgiveness in one act:
“For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”
(2 Corinthians 5:21)
God’s love does not cancel His hatred for sin. It moved Him to provide a way for sinners to be cleansed and reconciled without compromising His holiness.