Was Esau hated by God? Mal.1:2-3
This is a play on words similar to Christ’s command to “hate our family” (Lu. 14:26). Of course Jesus wants us to love our families, but in our heart of hearts, our deepest love should be for God. This is hyperbole, something very common in ancient biblical writings. God’s hate regarding Esau relates to something about Esau that is disliked in a greater way than what God dislikes about Jacob the “deceiver.” When God elects one over another, it does not mean He loves them more, but rather He is delegating to them a greater responsibility in His service. For more on election, see page 97.
From Hope Beyond Hell Revised 2010 pages 223
