Topical Encyclopedia CompassionCompassion is a central theme in the Bible, reflecting God's character 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 response to the suffering of others. The Bible frequently portrays God as compassionate. In Exodus 34:6, God reveals Himself to Moses, proclaiming, "The LORD, the LORD God, is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion and truth." This self-revelation underscores the importance of compassion as an attribute of God. Similarly, Psalm 103:13 states, "As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him." Jesus Christ exemplifies compassion throughout His earthly ministry. In Matthew 9:36, it is written, "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 action, as seen in His healing of the sick, feeding of the hungry, and teaching of the lost. In the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), Jesus illustrates that true compassion transcends social and ethnic boundaries, calling His followers to "go and do likewise." The Apostle Paul encourages believers to embody compassion as part of their Christian walk. In Colossians 3:12, he writes, "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." Compassion is not merely an emotion but a deliberate choice to act in love and mercy towards others. Personal Touch The concept of a personal touch in the Bible is closely related to the idea of relational ministry and the importance of personal interaction in conveying God's love. Jesus' ministry was marked by personal encounters that demonstrated His care and concern for individuals. One of the most profound examples of Jesus' personal touch is found in Mark 1:40-42, where a leper approaches Him, pleading for healing. "Moved with compassion, Jesus reached out His hand and touched the man. 'I am willing,' He said, 'Be clean!' And immediately the leprosy left him, and he was cleansed." Jesus' willingness to touch the untouchable not only brought physical healing but also restored the man's dignity and place in society. In another instance, Jesus' interaction with the woman at the well (John 4:1-26) demonstrates His personal approach to ministry. By engaging her in conversation and addressing her specific needs and questions, Jesus revealed His knowledge of her life and offered her the living water of eternal life. This personal encounter led to a transformative experience for the woman and her community. The early church also emphasized the importance of personal relationships in ministry. The Apostle Paul often expressed his longing to be with fellow believers, as seen in Romans 1:11-12: "For I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you, that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith." Personal touch in ministry involves mutual encouragement, support, and the sharing of spiritual gifts. In summary, compassion and personal touch are integral to the Christian faith, reflecting God's nature and the example set by Jesus Christ. Believers are called to embody these qualities in their interactions with others, demonstrating God's love through both words and actions. Subtopics Compassion and Sympathy: Christ Set an Example of Compassion and Sympathy: David Compassion and Sympathy: Elijah Compassion and Sympathy: Exercise Towards: Enemies Compassion and Sympathy: Exercise Towards: Saints Compassion and Sympathy: Exercise Towards: The Afflicted Compassion and Sympathy: Exercise Towards: The Chastened Compassion and Sympathy: Exercise Towards: The Poor Compassion and Sympathy: Exercise Towards: The Weak Compassion and Sympathy: Exhortation To Compassion and Sympathy: Illustrated Compassion and Sympathy: Inseparable from Love to God Compassion and Sympathy: Job's Friends Compassion and Sympathy: Motives to The Compassion of God Compassion and Sympathy: Motives to The Sense of Our Infirmities Compassion and Sympathy: Nehemiah Compassion and Sympathy: Pharaoh's Daughter Compassion and Sympathy: Promise to Those Who Show Compassion and Sympathy: Shobi Compassion and Sympathy: The Wicked Made to Feel, for Saints The Compassion and Sympathy of Christ: An Encouragement to Prayer The Compassion and Sympathy of Christ: Manifested for The: Afflicted The Compassion and Sympathy of Christ: Manifested for The: Diseased The Compassion and Sympathy of Christ: Manifested for The: Perishing Sinners The Compassion and Sympathy of Christ: Manifested for The: Poor The Compassion and Sympathy of Christ: Manifested for The: Tempted The Compassion and Sympathy of Christ: Manifested for The: Weak in Faith The Compassion and Sympathy of Christ: Manifested for The: Weary and Heavy-Laden The Compassion and Sympathy of Christ: Necessary to his Priestly office Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |