Those who are still in darkness are offended by the Light of the Truth, which is why many hate me, but it's not me they really hate, but the words of Truth I speak by the Spirit of Truth. I try not worry too much what others think of me, as I do not seek the honor and praise of men, but the honor that only comes from God. Paul also understood that we would be hated by men for the Words sake.
Galatians 1:10
For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to
please men? for if I yet
pleased men,
I should not be the servant of Christ.
I like Paul can come in the spirit of meekness or with a Rod, it all depends on how rebellious the people are. And in these forums there are some very rebellious and wicked people who try to pervert the true gospel of Jesus Christ. This is what I hate, and so it is the Rod for them.