Proverbs chapter 6 verses 16 through 19
“These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.”
VERSE CONTEXT
The book of Proverbs was primarily written by King Solomon, the son of King David. Solomon’s purpose in writing Proverbs was to impart wisdom, teach moral discipline, and provide practical instructions for living righteously before God. Proverbs is often categorized as wisdom literature, emphasizing godly character, discernment, and practical righteousness.
Proverbs chapter 6 contains warnings against sin, including laziness, wickedness, and immoral behavior. The specific passage we are studying today—verses 16 through 19—highlights seven things God hates, reinforcing how much He abhors sin in action and intent. These seven sins are not just random evils, but a list of behaviors that disrupt society, destroy relationships, and pervert justice.
Key Theological Insight on God’s Hatred of Sin
One of the most striking aspects of this passage is that it does not merely state that God hates sin in an abstract sense, but it shows that God hates those who practice these sins.
This is crucial because modern Christianity often emphasizes that “God loves the sinner but hates the sin.” While there is truth in that God is love (First John chapter 4 verse 8), the Bible also makes it clear that God’s wrath is directed toward unrepentant sinners who persist in wickedness. In this passage, we see that certain actions make a person abominable in God’s sight.
The term “abomination” in this passage refers to something detestable, utterly repulsive to God. This is not a passive disapproval—it is an intense hatred of these wicked behaviors.
Commentary from Theologians on These Verses
- Charles Bridges (1794–1869, Reformed Anglican): “This is no common loathing. It is the holy revulsion of a pure God against what defiles His creation. Man excuses his sins, but God declares them an abomination.”
- Matthew Henry (1662–1714, Presbyterian Minister): “It is not said that God dislikes, but that He hates these things. He who is all love and goodness, yet burns in holiness against those who love what He abhors.”
- John Gill (1697–1771, Baptist Theologian): “The enumeration here is of those sins which are destructive, both of personal integrity and the welfare of society. They corrupt a man and defile a nation.”
These commentaries confirm that these seven sins represent the destruction of holiness, justice, and social stability.
BROADER CONTEXT
This passage fits within the broader theme of God’s justice and wisdom in Proverbs. The entire book repeatedly warns that sin leads to destruction and that wisdom leads to life. Proverbs 6, in particular, contrasts righteous living with wickedness, showing that God is not indifferent to sin.
This is an essential truth in understanding the Bible as a whole. God is both merciful and just. While He extends grace to those who repent, He actively opposes those who persist in rebellion. The seven things listed in Proverbs 6:16-19 are not just individual sins, but patterns of behavior that undermine justice, truth, and love.
The entire book of Proverbs calls people to reject wickedness and seek wisdom, because God will ultimately judge the wicked.
APPLICATION
Appreciating God’s Greatness
God’s hatred of sin is rooted in His holiness and righteousness. He is not indifferent to wickedness, nor does He tolerate sin as something trivial. This passage should lead us to fear God rightly, recognizing that He does not take sin lightly. Instead of treating sin casually, we must view it with the same seriousness that God does.
The fact that God hates sin means He is just. He will not allow the guilty to go unpunished, nor will He overlook evil. This should bring comfort to those who are oppressed, knowing that God will bring justice.
For the Believer
For those who follow Christ, this passage should serve as a warning against participating in the very things God hates. We must ask ourselves:
- Do I display pride or arrogance?
- Do I speak falsehoods or exaggerate the truth?
- Have I ever harmed someone unjustly, even with my words?
- Do I devise evil in my heart, seeking revenge or plotting harm?
- Am I quick to engage in sinful actions?
- Have I ever spoken falsely about someone to cause them harm?
- Do I stir up division instead of bringing peace?
This list is convicting because it reminds us that sin is not just what we do, but who we are when we act apart from God.
Call to Action
If you find yourself guilty of any of these sins, repent immediately. God’s mercy is available to those who humble themselves, confess, and seek His righteousness.
The Apostle Paul reminds us in First Corinthians chapter 6 verse 11:
“And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.”
If you have fallen into these sins, there is hope and cleansing through Christ.
For the Unbeliever
If you are outside of Christ, this passage serves as a warning—God hates wickedness, and those who practice these sins will face His judgment. Proverbs makes it clear: God is not indifferent to sin.
The Bible tells us in Romans chapter 6 verse 23:
“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
There is only one way to escape God’s wrath—through Jesus Christ. He took the punishment for sin on the cross, and if you repent and believe in Him, you can be forgiven.
FINAL ENCOURAGEMENT
This passage should make us take sin seriously, but it should also drive us to God’s grace. We do not fight evil with more evil—we fight it by turning people to the truth in love. Hate is never the answer. Bombing abortion clinics, attacking others, or stirring up division only makes one guilty of the very sins Proverbs condemns.
God has called His people to be light in the darkness, not destroyers in the darkness. As James 1:20 reminds us:
“For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.”
Rather than responding with anger or violence, let us confront sin with truth and love, calling people to repentance. Because God is the Judge—we are simply His messengers.
Believers of Biblical Truth 
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