The Exclusion and the Embrace

Rejecting the Hatred of Babylon

Humanity has always been caught in a battle between two kingdoms—two distinct ways of living that compete for our hearts, minds, and souls. On one side stands the Kingdom of God, a realm built on love, mercy, and self-sacrifice, where Jesus calls us to love even our enemies. On the other side looms the Kingdom of the World, often referred to as Babylon, which thrives on hatred, domination, and exclusion. While the world uses hate to divide, conquer, and secure power, the Kingdom of God turns everything upside down, calling us to love unconditionally, just as Jesus loved us.

In today’s fractured world, we can see the clash between these two kingdoms more clearly than ever. Political turmoil, racial and ethnic divisions, religious strife, and economic inequality—all these realities reflect the world’s use of hatred as a weapon. Yet, as Christians, we are called to live in a radically different way. Jesus invites us to step out of the cycle of hatred and into a life of love, where we trust in God’s sovereignty and extend grace even to those who wrong us.

This essay explores the deep contrasts between these two kingdoms, examining how the world uses hatred as a tool for self-preservation and control, and how the love of Jesus offers a better way. We’ll delve into the roots of hate—why it arises, how it spreads, and why it ultimately reveals a lack of trust in God. And most importantly, we’ll consider how we, as followers of Christ, are called to embrace love in a world that so often chooses hate.

The Kingdom of God vs. the Kingdom of the World

The Bible speaks frequently of two opposing kingdoms: the Kingdom of God, which embodies love, peace, and the reign of Jesus, and the Kingdom of the World, often symbolized by Babylon, which operates on principles of hate, self-interest, and domination. These two kingdoms are more than just symbolic metaphors; they represent the fundamental choice facing humanity. We either align ourselves with God’s kingdom and its values, or we become part of the worldly system that stands in rebellion against God.

The Kingdom of God, as Jesus taught, is characterized by love, mercy, humility, and self-sacrifice. Jesus’ ministry was marked by acts of compassion, inclusion, and a profound call for His followers to love their neighbors and even their enemies. “But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44, ESV) . This radical call to love the unlovable sets the Kingdom of God apart from the world.

On the other hand, the Kingdom of the World operates on principles that are diametrically opposed to the teachings of Jesus. Babylon, in biblical literature, often represents the epitome of human pride, domination, and rebellion against God. The world’s systems, governments, and societal structures are often characterized by exclusion, the pursuit of power, and an “us vs. them” mentality. In this kingdom, love is conditional and often reserved for those who benefit the self or support one's cause. Those outside of this circle are often met with hostility, exclusion, or outright hatred.

Jesus’ Love vs. The Hate of the World

The core of Christian theology revolves around the sacrificial love of Jesus Christ. Jesus embodied love in the most profound way by offering Himself as a sacrifice for the sins of humanity. His love was not dependent on the worthiness of those He loved, nor was it confined to those who could reciprocate or offer something in return. Instead, Jesus’ love was unconditional, extended even to those who rejected and persecuted Him.

The world’s understanding of love, however, is often transactional. The love of the world is conditional, extended only to those who belong to a particular group, share similar beliefs, or provide some benefit. This exclusionary love often morphs into hatred for those who are seen as outsiders or threats to the status quo. The Apostle John draws this contrast clearly when he writes, “Do not be surprised, brothers, that the world hates you” (1 John 3:13, ESV) . This hatred stems from the world’s inability to comprehend the radical love of God, a love that does not conform to its standards of reciprocity and dominance.

In the Kingdom of the World, hate is used as a tool to divide, conquer, and subjugate others. Political systems, social hierarchies, and cultural divisions are often reinforced through the cultivation of hatred for those who are different or perceived as a threat. The world’s hatred is rooted in self-preservation, where any perceived challenge to one's status, wealth, or influence is met with hostility. In contrast, Jesus taught that His followers should not respond to hate with hate but with love. “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also” (Matthew 5:38-39, ESV) .

This teaching reveals the profound difference between the Kingdom of God and the Kingdom of the World. The world seeks revenge, retribution, and dominance, while Jesus calls for forgiveness, mercy, and self-giving love. The hatred of the world is born out of fear, insecurity, and the desire to control others, whereas the love of Jesus flows from a deep trust in God and a recognition that true power lies in humility and sacrifice.

The Roots of Hate

To understand the pervasive presence of hate in the world, we must examine its roots. At its core, hatred often arises from a desire for domination and control over others. This desire is deeply intertwined with pride—the belief that one's own status, needs, and desires are more important than those of others. When individuals or groups seek to elevate themselves, they often do so at the expense of others, leading to division, exclusion, and ultimately, hatred.

One of the most insidious aspects of hate is that it is often used as a tool to blame others for one's own problems. Instead of taking responsibility for personal failings or societal issues, individuals and groups often project their frustrations onto others, viewing them as scapegoats. This mechanism is as old as humanity itself. In the biblical story of Cain and Abel, Cain’s hatred for his brother Abel stemmed from his own feelings of inadequacy and failure. Instead of turning to God for guidance and self-improvement, Cain chose to lash out at Abel, blaming him for his own shortcomings, leading to murder (Genesis 4:1-16) .

Hatred is often a defense mechanism that stems from insecurity. When individuals or groups feel threatened—whether by economic hardship, social change, or personal loss—they often react by turning their fear into hatred toward those they see as different or responsible for their plight. The Kingdom of the World encourages this cycle, using hate as a means of control and division, fostering an environment where people are pitted against each other based on race, nationality, religion, or ideology.

However, at the root of hate is a deeper spiritual issue: a lack of trust in God. When individuals place their trust in their own strength, wealth, or power, they inevitably feel threatened when these things are challenged. This fear leads to a desire for control, and when control cannot be maintained, it turns into hatred. In contrast, the Kingdom of God calls for radical trust in God’s provision and sovereignty. Jesus modeled this trust perfectly, even in the face of betrayal, suffering, and death. Rather than seeking revenge or succumbing to hatred, Jesus entrusted Himself to the Father, knowing that ultimate justice and vindication would come from God, not from the exertion of human power.

Hate as a Lack of Trust in God

At its core, hate reveals a profound spiritual disorder—a lack of trust in God. When individuals or societies choose to rely on their own strength, wealth, or power for security, they inevitably feel threatened by any perceived challenge to their status or control. This fear of losing control often manifests as hatred toward those who are seen as threats. In many ways, hate is an attempt to assert control over others in a world that feels unpredictable and unsafe.

The world’s systems are built on the premise of self-protection and self-preservation. Political, economic, and social structures are often designed to ensure that certain individuals or groups maintain control, power, and status. When these structures are threatened, hate becomes a tool to maintain the status quo. This is evident in the way that marginalized groups are often scapegoated during times of societal upheaval or crisis. The desire to protect oneself at the expense of others is rooted in a fundamental distrust of God’s provision and sovereignty.

In contrast, the Kingdom of God calls for a radical trust in God’s provision and care. Jesus consistently taught that His followers should not place their trust in worldly power, wealth, or status but should instead rely on God for their security. “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?” (Matthew 6:25, ESV) . This trust in God frees believers from the need to dominate or control others and allows them to love freely, even in the face of persecution or suffering.

The Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment in his letter to the Romans, where he writes, “Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord’” (Romans 12:19, ESV) . Paul’s words reveal the freedom that comes from trusting in God’s justice rather than seeking to exert control through hatred or revenge. When we trust that God is in control, we are freed from the need to protect ourselves through worldly means, and we can extend love even to those who seek to harm us.

Embracing Love in a World of Hate

As followers of Jesus, we are called to reject the ways of the world—the ways of hate, exclusion, and domination—and to embrace the way of love that Jesus modeled for us. This is not an easy task, especially in a world that often rewards hate and self-interest. However, Jesus made it clear that His kingdom operates on entirely different principles from those of the world. “My kingdom is not of this world” (John 18:36, ESV) .

To love as Jesus loved requires a radical reorientation of our hearts and minds. It requires us to reject the fear and insecurity that lead to hatred and to instead place our trust in God’s love and provision. This kind of love is not weak or passive; it is powerful and transformative. The love of Jesus has the power to break down barriers, heal wounds, and bring reconciliation where there was once division and strife.

Miroslav Volf, in his seminal work Exclusion and Embrace, argues that the Christian call to embrace those who are different or even hostile to us is at the heart of the gospel. He writes, “Forgiveness flounders because I exclude the enemy from the community of humans even as I exclude myself from the community of sinners.” Volf’s words highlight the fact that true love and reconciliation are only possible when we recognize our shared humanity and our shared need for God’s grace. In the Kingdom of God, there is no room for exclusion or hatred; instead, we are called to embrace one another in the love that Jesus has shown us.

How Babylon Uses Hate

The Kingdom of the World, often symbolized by Babylon in biblical literature, thrives on division, domination, and hatred. Hate is employed as a tool for control, manipulation, and the preservation of power. Throughout history and in contemporary times, we can observe how hatred is wielded in various forms to serve the objectives of the worldly system. Below are some key examples of how the world uses hate to achieve its aims:

1. Political and Nationalistic Hatred

Throughout history, rulers and political regimes have often relied on hatred to maintain power and manipulate populations. Nationalism, when taken to the extreme, fosters an “us versus them” mentality. Leaders and governments have frequently cultivated fear and hatred of external enemies—whether other nations, ethnic groups, or ideological opponents—to rally people around a common cause or distract from domestic problems.

A vivid example is the propaganda used by totalitarian regimes during the 20th century. Adolf Hitler’s Nazi regime, for example, incited hatred against Jews, portraying them as the cause of Germany’s problems. This hatred was methodically cultivated through state-controlled media, education, and laws, leading to the horrors of the Holocaust. Similarly, in Stalinist Russia, political purges were justified by demonizing perceived enemies of the state, creating a climate of fear and distrust, often fueled by hatred of dissenters.

In modern times, political leaders sometimes stoke hatred for their opponents, often scapegoating immigrants, racial groups, or opposing political ideologies to galvanize their base. This use of hate fosters division and perpetuates cycles of violence, while allowing leaders to divert attention from their own shortcomings and failures. The tactic of blaming others for societal problems is a classic Babylonian tool, as it fosters division and maintains the power structure of the elite at the expense of the marginalized.

2. Racial and Ethnic Hatred

Racial and ethnic hatred has long been one of the most destructive tools used by the Kingdom of the World to divide people and maintain power structures. Throughout history, societies have often dehumanized or marginalized certain racial or ethnic groups, fostering hatred to justify exploitation, oppression, and violence. This hatred serves the purposes of those in power, who use divisions to reinforce their own status and control.

One stark example of ethnic hatred can be seen in the Rwandan Genocide of 1994. For decades, tensions between the Hutu and Tutsi ethnic groups had been stoked by political leaders, colonial history, and social inequalities. These tensions culminated in an eruption of violence, as extremist leaders within the Hutu majority incited mass killings of the Tutsi minority. In the span of about 100 days, nearly one million Tutsi men, women, and children were murdered. This tragic event serves as a reminder of how ethnic hatred can be manipulated by those seeking to solidify their power, leading to catastrophic consequences.

Another historical instance of racial hatred is found in apartheid-era South Africa. The apartheid regime institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination, creating a system where the white minority held power over the black majority. This system of racial hatred and division was maintained through strict laws that prevented social integration, economic advancement, and political representation for non-white citizens. The apartheid system used fear and hatred to preserve a structure where one race dominated over another, reinforcing the power of the privileged class at the expense of those they oppressed.

In many regions, ethnic and racial hatred continues to manifest through violent conflicts and systemic discrimination. People are often divided along racial or ethnic lines, and these divisions are manipulated to foster mistrust, hostility, and exclusion. This hatred not only fractures societies but also denies the inherent dignity and worth of individuals, fueling cycles of oppression and violence.

3. Religious Hatred and Persecution

Religious hatred is another way the Kingdom of the World exploits human differences to create division and exclusion. Throughout history, religious persecution has been a tool used by powerful entities to suppress dissent, consolidate power, and eliminate perceived threats to authority.

In ancient Rome, Christians were often persecuted because their faith was seen as a challenge to the emperor’s authority. The Roman state used hatred and fear of Christians to justify their brutal treatment, accusing them of atheism, cannibalism, and undermining social order. Today, many countries still use religious hatred to maintain control, suppress minority religious groups, and enforce ideological conformity.

In modern times, religious extremism on all sides has led to acts of terror and violence. The rise of radical ideologies, such as those espoused by groups like ISIS, is rooted in hatred for those who do not conform to their interpretation of religious doctrine. This manipulation of religious hatred allows leaders of these movements to justify violence, recruit followers, and wage war against perceived enemies. At the same time, anti-Muslim, anti-Semitic, and anti-Christian sentiments have also been manipulated to justify violence, discrimination, and exclusion in various parts of the world.

4. Cultural and Ideological Hatred

Cultural and ideological hatred is another weapon frequently used by the Kingdom of the World to create division and maintain control. This form of hatred arises when individuals or societies view those with different beliefs, values, or cultural practices as threats to their own identity or way of life. Instead of fostering understanding or dialogue, the world often exploits these differences to sow discord, fueling hostility and exclusion.

One historical example of this type of hatred can be found during the Chinese Cultural Revolution in the mid-20th century. During this period, the ruling Communist Party, under Mao Zedong’s leadership, sought to eliminate what it viewed as remnants of traditional Chinese culture and opposition to communist ideology. In the name of ideological purity, millions of people were persecuted, imprisoned, or even executed, particularly those perceived to be intellectuals, cultural figures, or adherents to different political beliefs. This movement demonstrated how ideological hatred could be harnessed to justify oppression, dismantling cultural diversity in the name of conformity and control.

In modern societies, cultural and ideological differences continue to be manipulated for political or social gain. Media outlets, political movements, and extremist groups often frame those with opposing worldviews as dangerous or inferior. Whether through religious, political, or social ideologies, cultural differences are often exploited to foster division rather than encouraging understanding and respect. As a result, societies become more polarized, with little room for dialogue or reconciliation.

This form of hatred stems from a fear of the "other"—a fear that different cultures, ideologies, or worldviews will undermine one’s identity or way of life. The world capitalizes on this fear, using it to create divisions that keep people divided and easier to control. Instead of building bridges of understanding, cultural and ideological hatred fuels conflict, exclusion, and violence.

5. Economic and Class-Based Hatred

Economic disparity is another area where the Kingdom of the World uses hatred to divide and conquer. Throughout history, economic inequality has been a driving force behind class-based hatred, where individuals or groups at opposite ends of the economic spectrum are pitted against each other. This form of hatred can be seen in both directions, where the wealthy may look down on the poor and marginalized, while the economically disadvantaged may harbor resentment toward the wealthy.

One particularly haunting example of how economic division can persist even in the face of death is found in the ruins of Herculaneum, an ancient Roman city destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. Archaeologists discovered the remains of hundreds of people who had fled to the boathouses along the shore, seeking refuge from the volcanic devastation. In those final moments of life, the divisions between economic classes still held sway. The remains were found grouped according to class distinctions—wealthier citizens who had brought their valuables were segregated from the poor, who had little but themselves. Even in the face of death, the deeply entrenched divisions of class held firm, revealing how powerfully economic hatred and exclusion can dominate human interaction.

Another potent example of economic class-based hatred can be seen in the rise of Marxist ideology, which continues to this day. Karl Marx’s critique of capitalism and the resulting exploitation of the working class fueled a deep resentment and hatred toward the wealthy, often referred to as the bourgeoisie. Marxist theory encouraged the working class, or proletariat, to rise up against the ruling capitalist class, framing the relationship between the two as one of inherent oppression and conflict. This ideology fanned the flames of class-based hatred, promoting revolution and, at times, violent overthrow of existing social structures. Movements inspired by Marxist thought, such as the Bolshevik Revolution in Russia, resulted in large-scale violence, the persecution of the wealthy, and the redistribution of wealth through force.

By framing the rich as inherently evil oppressors, Marxist movements exacerbated social divisions and deepened animosities between people of different economic standings. This class-based hatred turns economic inequality into a battleground, where the pursuit of justice is overshadowed by the desire for revenge and dominance.

Rather than addressing the root causes of inequality, the world often exacerbates these divisions through rhetoric and policies that perpetuate class-based hatred. This maintains the power dynamics of Babylon, where those in positions of wealth and privilege seek to protect their status while deflecting blame onto others. The example of the Herculaneum boathouse and Marxist revolutions serve as tragic illustrations of how deeply the world’s economic hatred can permeate, even in moments of shared vulnerability or a quest for change.

Babylon’s Cycle of Hate

The Kingdom of the World, as symbolized by Babylon, thrives on hatred because it is a powerful tool for division, control, and self-preservation. Whether through political manipulation, racial and ethnic oppression, religious persecution, ideological polarization, or economic exploitation, hate serves the aims of maintaining dominance and preventing the flourishing of God's Kingdom values of love, peace, and reconciliation.

As Christians, we are called to see through these tactics of Babylon and reject hatred in all its forms. Jesus showed us a different way, the way of love, forgiveness, and reconciliation, even toward those who oppose us. By following Jesus’ example and trusting in God’s justice, we can resist the pull of the world’s hatred and instead be agents of God's love and grace in a divided and hostile world.

Conclusion

The world is often divided by hate, exclusion, and domination. The Kingdom of the World thrives on these principles, using hate as a tool to control and subjugate others. However, as followers of Jesus, we are called to a different way of living. We are called to embrace the love of Jesus, a love that is self-giving, sacrificial, and unconditional. This love stands in stark contrast to the hatred of the world, which is born out of fear, insecurity, and a desire for control.

Ultimately, the choice between the Kingdom of God and the Kingdom of the World comes down to trust. Do we trust in God’s love and provision, or do we place our trust in worldly power, wealth, and status? When we trust in God, we are freed from the need to control others or to protect ourselves through hate. Instead, we can love freely, knowing that our security is found in Christ.

In a world that is often marked by division and hatred, the call to love as Jesus loved is both radical and transformative. It is a call to reject the ways of the world and to embrace the way of the Kingdom of God—a kingdom where love, not hate, reigns supreme.

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As you reflect on the differences between the Kingdom of God and the Kingdom of the World, ask yourself: Have I, or my church, fallen prey to the hatred of Babylon? Have we allowed division, fear, or judgment to shape our actions rather than the radical love of Jesus? If so, take this moment to pray and seek God's guidance, asking Him to help you turn away from hate and embrace the love that He calls us to live out.

Heavenly Father, I come before You with a humble heart, recognizing that I live in a world that often thrives on division, hatred, and fear. I confess that, at times, I have allowed the ways of the world to influence my thoughts and actions. I have harbored resentment, judgment, and pride, and I have failed to love others as You have loved me.

Lord, forgive me for the times when I have contributed to the hatred and exclusion that characterize the Kingdom of the World. Forgive me for allowing fear, insecurity, and a desire for control to take precedence over trust in Your love and sovereignty. I ask for Your grace to turn away from the ways of Babylon and to fully embrace the love of Your Kingdom.

Help me to love as Jesus loved—with compassion, humility, and a heart that seeks reconciliation rather than division. Teach me to see every person, regardless of status, background, race, or belief, as someone created in Your image and deserving of love. Help me to trust in Your justice and provision, so that I can let go of the need for control and instead walk in the freedom of Your love.

Lord, guide my church, too. If we have fallen into patterns of exclusion, division, or hate, I ask for Your forgiveness and healing. Transform us into a community that reflects Your Kingdom—one marked by grace, mercy, and radical love. Empower us to be agents of peace and reconciliation in a world that so desperately needs to see Your love in action.

In the name of Jesus, who showed us the way of love and sacrifice, I pray. Amen.

Bibliography

1. Volf, Miroslav. Exclusion and Embrace. Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1996.

2. Augustine, Saint. City of God. London: Penguin Books, 2003.

3. Wright, N.T. Simply Christian: Why Christianity Makes Sense. New York: HarperOne, 2006.

4. Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. The Cost of Discipleship. New York: Touchstone, 1995.

5. Keller, Timothy. The Reason for God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism. New York: Penguin, 2008.

6. Lewis, C.S. Mere Christianity. New York: HarperCollins, 2001.

7. Willard, Dallas. The Divine Conspiracy: Rediscovering Our Hidden Life in God. New York: HarperOne, 1998.

8. Yancey, Philip. What's So Amazing About Grace? Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1997.

9. Stott, John R.W. The Cross of Christ. Downers Grove: IVP, 2006.

10. Niebuhr, Reinhold. Moral Man and Immoral Society. New York: Charles Scribner's Sons, 1932.

Scriptural References

• Matthew 5:44

• 1 John 3:13

• Matthew 5:38-39

• Genesis 4:1-16

• Matthew 6:25

• Romans 12:19

• John 18:36