LIVING AS CHRISTIANS, Week of August 25-31, 2025, Do you hate violence? Analysis and Answers.

LIVING AS CHRISTIANS, August 25-31, 2025, Do You Hate Violence? Analysis and Answers.

Do you hate violence? (6 mins.) Discussion with the audience.

Read Psalm 11:5. Then ask:

How does Jehovah feel about those who love violence, and why?

Jehovah hates those who love violence, because this is contrary to his just and loving nature. Violence is harmful and destructive, and Jehovah desires to protect his servants from its negative influence.

The Bible teaches that Jehovah is a God of peace and love, and that he hates violence and injustice. Therefore, it is logical that he hates those who love violence and seek to harm others.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

Jehovah resents those who are inclined to violence, because it goes against his peaceful nature. For Him, it's not only what we do that matters, but also what we enjoy and approve of in our hearts.

Psalm 11:5. This psalm explains that Jehovah tests people and hates those who love violence. This makes me think that it's not enough to not strike or hurt; if I enjoy violence in what I see or hear, that already reflects an inclination He disapproves of.

John 8:44. Jesus called the Devil “a murderer from the beginning.” When a person loves violence, even if it’s just for entertainment, they are adopting the same mentality that comes from Satan. And that is the opposite of what Jehovah wants us to reflect.

The world is fascinated with violence. How is that reflected in some sports and entertainment?

The fascination with violence is reflected in some sports and entertainment in various ways. For example, some contact sports, such as boxing or mixed martial arts, may glorify physical violence.

In entertainment, movies and television programs that depict graphic violence or glorify violent characters can contribute to the normalization of violence in society.

Furthermore, the entertainment industry often uses violence as a way to attract audiences and increase profits. This can lead to increased exposure to violence in the media and greater acceptance of violence in society.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

This is reflected in the popularity of activities where physical aggression, fighting, and humiliation are spectacled. Many people enjoy seeing suffering, which shows how this world normalizes violence.

2 Timothy 3:1, 3. The text says that in the last days people would be fierce and without self-control. This is evident in sports where injuries or humiliation are part of the fun, or in movies that glorify brutality. It seems harmless, but it feeds into the same spirit the Bible describes.

Genesis 6:11. Before the Flood, the earth was ruined and filled with violence. We see something similar today: much of our entertainment portrays aggression as if it were normal. This makes me reflect that, if I don't set limits, I can become accustomed to that violence without realizing it.

Read Proverbs 22:24, 25. Then ask:

How might the entertainment we choose and the people we associate with influence our attitudes toward violence?

The entertainment we choose and the people we associate with can influence our attitudes toward violence by normalizing violent behavior. If we surround ourselves with people or content that promote violence, we may begin to view it as acceptable or even desirable.

Furthermore, repeated exposure to media violence can desensitize us to it and make it harder for us to empathize with victims of violence.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

If what we see or who we share experiences with encourages aggression, it can shape our way of thinking, gradually making violence seem acceptable to us.

Proverbs 22:24, 25. The proverb advises against associating with violent people, because one eventually learns their ways. If I spend too much time watching TV shows or associating with people who enjoy aggression, I may end up thinking the same way and losing my spiritual sensitivity.

2 Timothy 3:1-3. The prophecy says that many would be “without natural affection and self-control.” By exposing myself to that kind of environment, whether in friendships or in the media, I run the risk of adopting that same attitude. That's why I must choose my surroundings carefully.

When it comes to choosing entertainment, what would prove that we actually love violence?

We would demonstrate that we love violence if we choose entertainment that glorifies or promotes violence in a gratuitous or excessive manner.

If we enjoy content that depicts violence without consequences or presents it in a compelling way, we may be developing a more tolerant attitude toward violence in our own lives. We may also be sending a message to others that violence is acceptable or even desirable.

Therefore, it's important to be aware of the influence entertainment can have on our attitudes toward violence and to choose content that promotes positive and constructive values. Violence is a serious issue that requires thoughtful consideration.

As Jehovah's Witnesses, we believe the Bible teaches that God hates violence and that we should reject it. It is essential to be careful with entertainment and the people we surround ourselves with, as they can influence our perspective on violence. The Bible exhorts us to flee evil and seek peace.

As followers of Christ, we must strive to live according to these principles and promote peace and love in all our interactions. By doing so, we can reflect God's personality and values ​​and contribute to a more harmonious environment.

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS

It is demonstrated when we intentionally seek out violent content and take pleasure in seeing aggression or suffering, rather than rejecting it as something harmful.

Psalm 11:5. Knowing that Jehovah hates those who enjoy violence, if I continue to seek out violent movies or aggressive video games, I would be showing that I don't share his point of view. That choice reveals what truly appeals to me.

John 8:44. Jesus identified the Devil as a “murderer.” So, when I enjoy violence in my leisure time, I'm actually being influenced by his spirit. This makes me realize that my entertainment can say a lot about who I want to emulate.