The hatred with which he hated her was greater
William MacDonald warns that unchecked lust leads to destructive hatred and broken relationships, emphasizing the need for God's grace and purity.
In this topical sermon, William MacDonald explores the tragic story of Amnon and Tamar to reveal how lust can quickly turn to hatred, leading to broken relationships and moral decay. He contrasts biblical moral standards with modern societal trends, warning of the consequences of ignoring God's law. MacDonald emphasizes the necessity of God's grace for forgiveness and restoration, offering hope to those caught in the cycle of sin.
Text
“The hatred with which he hated her was greater than the love wherewith he had loved her.” (2 Sam. 13:15)
Amnon burned with lust for his half-sister, Tamar. She was beautiful, and he was determined to have her. He was frustrated because he knew that what he wanted to do was clearly forbidden by the law of God. But he was so consumed by desire for her that no other considerations seemed important. So he pretended to be ill, lured her into his room and violated her. He was willing to sacrifice everything for that one moment of passion.
But then lust turned to hatred. After he had selfishly exploited her, he despised her and probably wished he had never seen her. He ordered her to be thrown out and the door locked behind her.
This vignette of history is being replayed every day. In our freewheeling society, moral standards have been largely abandoned. Premarital sex is accepted as normal. Couples live together without the formality of marriage. Prostitution is legalized. Homosexuality has become an accepted alternative life style.
Young and old alike see someone they like and that settles it. They recognize no higher law. They are bound by no inhibitions. They are determined to get what they want. They wave off any thought of right or wrong, and rationalize that they cannot live a normal life in any other way. So they take the plunge, as Amnon did, and think that they have achieved fulfilment.
But what had looked so beautiful in prospect often looks very hideous in retrospect. Guilt is inevitable, no matter how hotly it is denied. A mutual loss of self-respect leads to resentment. That in turn often boils over into quarreling and then into hatred. The person who once seemed so indispensable is now positively repulsive. From there it is an easy step to beatings, court-battles and even murder.
Lust lays a rotten foundation on which to build a lasting relationship. Men ignore God’s law of purity to their own loss and destruction. Only the grace of God can bring forgiveness, healing and restoration.
Sermon Outline
-
I
- Amnon's lust for Tamar
- The violation and its consequences
- The transition from love to hatred
-
II
- Modern society's abandonment of moral standards
- The normalization of premarital sex and alternative lifestyles
- Ignoring God's law leads to moral decay
-
III
- The aftermath of lust: guilt, resentment, and hatred
- The destructive cycle in relationships
- The need for God's grace for healing
Key Quotes
“The hatred with which he hated her was greater than the love wherewith he had loved her.” — William MacDonald
“Lust lays a rotten foundation on which to build a lasting relationship.” — William MacDonald
“Only the grace of God can bring forgiveness, healing and restoration.” — William MacDonald
Application Points
- Guard your heart against lust to prevent destructive consequences in relationships.
- Recognize the importance of adhering to God's moral law in a permissive society.
- Seek God's grace for forgiveness and healing when broken by sin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main lesson from Amnon and Tamar's story?
The story illustrates how lust can lead to sin, hatred, and broken relationships, highlighting the importance of obeying God's law.
How does modern society compare to the biblical example?
Modern society often disregards moral standards, accepting premarital sex and alternative lifestyles, which can lead to similar destructive outcomes.
Can broken relationships be restored after sin?
Yes, only the grace of God can bring forgiveness, healing, and restoration to those affected by sin.
Why does lust lead to hatred according to the sermon?
Lust is selfish and temporary, but once fulfilled, it often results in guilt and resentment, turning love into hatred.