An End to Hate Crimes—What Does the Bible Say?

Hate-motivated violence has become tragically common. People are attacked simply because of their race, religion, ethnicity, gender, or other reasons. Such acts spread fear throughout communities, leaving many with deep and lasting physical and emotional scars—and even costing some their lives.

The Bible foretold that our time would be marked by people who are “fierce, without love of goodness,” and lacking “natural affection.” (2 Timothy 3:1-5) So will hate crimes ever end? What does the Bible say?

How hate crimes will end

The Bible assures us that God can end cruelty, and he will do so.

• “Evil men will be done away with . . . But the meek will possess the earth, and they will find exquisite delight in the abundance of peace.” (Psalm 37:9-11) God will not allow violent people to continue harming others.

• “[God] will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore.” (Revelation 21:4) God will reverse the effects of any physical, mental, and emotional harm that people have experienced.

• “There is going to be a resurrection.” (Acts 24:15) God will raise millions back to life, including those whose lives were cut short by hate crimes.

Dealing with hatred today

The Bible does more than offer hope—it helps us deal with the hatred so common today. We warmly invite you to explore the Bible’s answers to these important questions:

• What can we do now to conquer the hatred that leads to violence? See what the Bible teaches in the Watchtower magazine entitled “Breaking the Cycle of Hatred.”

• Why does God allow so much suffering to continue? Find a clear, Bible-based explanation in the video Why Does God Allow Suffering?