If you’ve ever wondered what the Bible has to say about compassion, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll dive into the heart of this important topic and explore the wisdom and guidance the Bible provides.
Curious to learn more? Let’s get started.
What Does the Bible Say About Compassion?
The Bible, often referred to as the Word of God, is a rich source of wisdom on various aspects of life, including compassion. Compassion is a central theme in the Bible, and it reveals God’s heart for humanity.
In the Old Testament, we see God’s compassion portrayed as a characteristic of His nature. In Exodus 34:6, it says, “The LORD, the LORD, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.” This verse showcases God’s view of compassion as an integral part of His character.
Throughout the Old Testament, there are stories of God’s compassion toward His people, even when they sinned and strayed from His ways. The story of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32 exemplifies God’s compassionate nature as the father welcomes back his wayward son with open arms.
Jesus, the central figure of Christianity, epitomized compassion during His earthly ministry. He healed the sick, fed the hungry, and showed love to the outcasts and sinners. In Matthew 9:36, it’s written, “When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.”
The New Testament, which documents the life and teachings of Jesus, emphasizes the importance of compassion and love for one another. In Colossians 3:12, it encourages believers to “clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.”
Compassion is not merely a suggestion in the Bible; it’s a virtue that followers of Christ are encouraged to embody. In 1 John 3:17-18, it states, “If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”
Bible Verses About Compassion
- Exodus 34:6 – “The LORD, the LORD, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.”
- Luke 15:20 – “So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him, and kissed him.”
- Matthew 9:36 – “When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.”
- Colossians 3:12 – “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.”
- 1 John 3:17-18 – “If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”
Compassion is not just a nice sentiment; it’s a way of living out God’s love in our lives. As we strive to understand and practice compassion, we align ourselves with God’s view of how we should relate to one another. So, let’s embrace compassion as a central theme in our journey of faith.