Topical Encyclopedia
CompassionCompassion is a central theme in the Bible, reflecting God's nature and His expectations for His people. The Hebrew word often translated as "compassion" is "racham," which conveys a deep, tender love and mercy. In the New Testament, the Greek word "splagchnizomai" is used, indicating a visceral, heartfelt empathy.
God's compassion is evident throughout Scripture. In
Exodus 34:6, God reveals Himself to Moses, proclaiming, "The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion and truth." This declaration underscores God's enduring mercy and love for His creation. Similarly, in
Psalm 103:13, it is written, "As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him."
The life and ministry of Jesus Christ exemplify divine compassion. In
Matthew 9:36, Jesus is moved with compassion for the crowds, "because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd." His compassion often led to acts of healing and teaching, demonstrating God's love in action. The parable of the Good Samaritan (
Luke 10:25-37) further illustrates the call to compassion, urging believers to love their neighbors as themselves.
HealingHealing in the Bible is closely linked to God's compassion and power. It serves as a sign of His kingdom and a testament to His authority over creation. The Old Testament contains numerous accounts of divine healing, such as the healing of Naaman's leprosy (2 Kings 5) and the restoration of King Hezekiah's health (
2 Kings 20:1-11).
In the New Testament, Jesus' healing ministry is a prominent aspect of His work. He healed the sick, gave sight to the blind, and even raised the dead, as seen in the account of Lazarus (
John 11:1-44). These miracles were not only acts of compassion but also signs pointing to Jesus as the Messiah and the Son of God. In
Matthew 14:14, it is recorded, "When He stepped ashore and saw a large crowd, He had compassion on them and healed their sick."
The apostles continued this ministry of healing, empowered by the Holy Spirit. In
Acts 3:6-8, Peter heals a lame man at the temple gate, declaring, "In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, get up and walk!" This act of healing served as a powerful witness to the early church's message and mission.
Healing is also associated with faith and prayer.
James 5:14-15 instructs, "Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will restore the one who is sick." This passage highlights the communal and spiritual dimensions of healing within the body of Christ.
Throughout Scripture, compassion and healing are intertwined, reflecting God's desire for wholeness and restoration. Believers are called to emulate God's compassion, serving as instruments of His healing grace in a broken world.
