My FRiend, you are a blessing to me.
If I read your posting anywhere near correctly, you are about to either journey East or swim the Tiber.
If not, then it is my own failing. Please do the right thing, as Dr. Laura enjoins. But if so, then the Lord be praised.
Harley, when and if you answer post 6,600 would you mind pinging me? I’m love to read your response.
You obviously didn't read my post correctly. In my quick analysis on the word "hate" as it is used in scripture, it is 1) used by God in reference to man attitude towards Him, and 2) our attitude towards others who hate God. Because man hates God (which is the essences of everything that is good), the wrath and vengeance of God resides on him. This is original sin.
The question then becomes how can man love God? Catholics feel men can cooperate in this love through His grace. But how is this possible? There is no way for man to love God. Love is a gift from God (1 Cor 13).
Your author taints his view with his insistence of free will. He makes the serious error of assuming man is capable of loving God; denying our condition and original sin. It also denies the clear truth in scripture that God doesn't hate man but man hates God. Man cannot manufacture love or cooperate for God, although some try.
Free will is a grave error. It minimizes the work God must do for us and it gives us abilities and characteristics we don't really have. All mankind is under the judgment and wrath of God. God must change our hearts to love Him through His Son.
Swim the Tiber? No thanks. I'll stay on this side of the shore.