Why did God hate Esau?

If you're like me, then you were surprised when you read in the Bible that God said, "Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated." That's in Romans chapter 9.

Romans 9:9-13

For this is what the promise said: “About this time next year I [God] will return, and Sarah shall have a son.” And not only so, but also when Rebekah had conceived children by one man, our forefather Isaac, though they were not yet born and had done nothing either good or bad—in order that God's purpose of election might continue, not because of works but because of him who calls— she was told, “The older will serve the younger.” As it is written, “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.”

From the perspective of a human who thinks in terms of time, I remember thinking, "Man, that is harsh! What could Esau have done to make God hate him before birth?"

And so if you have ever wondered, "What does Romans 9:13 mean?" "Why did God hate Esau?" Then this podcast is for you!