Topical Encyclopedia
Definition and Overview:A call for compassion in the biblical context refers to the divine and moral imperative for individuals to exhibit empathy, kindness, and mercy towards others. This call is deeply rooted in the character of God and is a recurring theme throughout the Scriptures, urging believers to reflect God's love and compassion in their interactions with others.
Biblical Foundation:Compassion is a central attribute of God, as seen in numerous passages. In
Exodus 34:6, God describes Himself to Moses as "The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion and truth." This foundational understanding of God's nature sets the stage for the expectation that His followers will also embody compassion.
Old Testament Context:The Old Testament frequently emphasizes the importance of compassion, particularly in the context of justice and care for the vulnerable. In
Deuteronomy 10:18-19, God commands the Israelites to love the foreigner, "for you were foreigners in the land of Egypt." Similarly,
Zechariah 7:9-10 instructs, "Administer true justice. Show loving devotion and compassion to one another. Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the foreigner or the poor."
The prophetic literature often calls out the lack of compassion as a societal failing. For example, in
Isaiah 58:6-7, God challenges superficial religious practices and calls for genuine acts of compassion: "Is this not the fast I have chosen: to loose the chains of wickedness, to untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, to bring the homeless poor into your home, to clothe the naked when you see him, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?"
New Testament Context:In the New Testament, Jesus Christ exemplifies and teaches compassion as a core aspect of His ministry. The Gospels frequently depict Jesus moved by compassion, such as in
Matthew 9:36, where "When He saw the crowds, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd."
Jesus' parables often highlight the importance of compassion. The Parable of the Good Samaritan (
Luke 10:30-37) is a profound illustration, where Jesus concludes with the command, "Go and do likewise," urging His followers to show mercy and compassion beyond social and ethnic boundaries.
The apostolic writings continue this theme, urging believers to embody compassion as a reflection of their new life in Christ.
Colossians 3:12 instructs, "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience."
Practical Implications:A call for compassion in the biblical sense extends beyond mere feelings of pity; it requires action. Believers are encouraged to actively seek opportunities to serve and uplift those in need, reflecting God's love through tangible acts of kindness and mercy. This call challenges individuals to look beyond themselves, to empathize with the suffering of others, and to respond with generosity and grace.
Conclusion:The biblical call for compassion is a profound and enduring mandate that challenges believers to live out their faith through acts of love and mercy. It is a call to reflect the heart of God in a world often marked by indifference and self-interest, serving as a testament to the transformative power of divine love.
