Topical Encyclopedia
Anger, as depicted in the Bible, is a powerful emotion that can lead to both righteous and unrighteous actions. It is an emotion experienced by both God and humans, and its expression and consequences are addressed throughout Scripture.
In the Old Testament, God's anger is often portrayed as a response to sin and disobedience. For instance, in
Exodus 32:10, God expresses His anger towards the Israelites for worshiping the golden calf: "Now leave Me alone, so that My anger may burn against them and consume them. Then I will make you into a great nation." Here, divine anger is depicted as a just response to idolatry and rebellion.
Human anger, however, is frequently cautioned against due to its potential to lead to sin.
Proverbs 29:11 states, "A fool vents all his anger, but a wise man holds it back." This verse highlights the importance of self-control and the wisdom in restraining one's anger. Similarly, in the New Testament,
James 1:19-20 advises, "My beloved brothers, understand this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, for man's anger does not bring about the righteousness that God desires."
The New Testament also addresses anger in the context of Christian living.
Ephesians 4:26-27 instructs, "Be angry, yet do not sin. Do not let the sun set upon your anger, and do not give the devil a foothold." This passage acknowledges that anger itself is not inherently sinful, but it warns against allowing anger to persist and lead to further wrongdoing.
Jesus Himself displayed righteous anger, notably when He cleansed the temple of money changers in
Matthew 21:12-13. His anger was directed towards the corruption and desecration of a holy place, demonstrating that anger can be justified when it aligns with God's righteousness and justice.
CompassionCompassion is a central theme in the Bible, reflecting God's character and serving as a model for human behavior. It is the deep awareness of and sympathy for another's suffering, coupled with a desire to alleviate it.
In the Old Testament, God's compassion is frequently highlighted.
Psalm 103:13-14 states, "As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him. For He knows our frame; He is mindful that we are dust." This passage emphasizes God's understanding and mercy towards human frailty.
The prophets also speak of God's compassion. In
Isaiah 49:13, it is written, "Shout for joy, O heavens; rejoice, O earth; break into song, O mountains! For the LORD has comforted His people, and He will have compassion on His afflicted ones." Here, God's compassion is linked to His role as a comforter and deliverer of His people.
In the New Testament, Jesus exemplifies compassion through His ministry.
Matthew 9:36 describes Jesus' response to the crowds: "When He saw the crowds, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd." Jesus' compassion often led to acts of healing and teaching, demonstrating His care for both physical and spiritual needs.
The parable of the Good Samaritan in
Luke 10:33-34 further illustrates the call to compassion: "But when a Samaritan on a journey came upon him, he looked at him and had compassion. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine." This account underscores the importance of showing mercy and kindness to others, regardless of social or ethnic boundaries.
Believers are encouraged to emulate God's compassion.
Colossians 3:12 instructs, "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." This verse calls Christians to embody compassion as a fundamental aspect of their identity in Christ, reflecting His love and mercy to the world.
