The term "kindhearted" refers to a disposition characterized by benevolence, compassion, and a genuine concern for the well-being of others. In the biblical context, kindheartedness is a virtue that reflects the nature of God and is encouraged among His followers. It is closely associated with love, mercy, and grace, which are central themes throughout Scripture.

Biblical Foundation

The concept of kindheartedness is deeply rooted in the character of God. In the Old Testament, God is often described as compassionate and merciful. For instance, Psalm 103:8 states, "The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion." This verse highlights God's kindhearted nature, which serves as a model for human behavior.

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ exemplifies kindheartedness through His teachings and actions. His ministry was marked by acts of compassion, healing the sick, feeding the hungry, and offering forgiveness. 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 is a direct expression of His kindheartedness.

Exhortations to Kindheartedness

Believers are called to emulate God's kindheartedness in their interactions with others. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, frequently encourages the early Christian communities to cultivate this virtue. In Ephesians 4:32 , Paul writes, "Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you." This exhortation underscores the importance of kindness and forgiveness as integral aspects of Christian living.

Similarly, in Colossians 3:12 , Paul instructs, "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." Here, kindheartedness is listed among other virtues that believers are to "put on," indicating its essential role in the Christian life.

Practical Expressions

Kindheartedness manifests in various practical ways, such as acts of charity, hospitality, and service. The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) is a poignant illustration of kindheartedness in action. The Samaritan's willingness to help a wounded stranger, despite cultural animosities, exemplifies the selfless love and compassion that Jesus calls His followers to demonstrate.

The early church also provides examples of kindheartedness through communal living and mutual support. Acts 2:44-45 describes how "all the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they shared with anyone who was in need." This communal sharing reflects a kindhearted spirit that prioritizes the needs of others.

Theological Significance

Kindheartedness is not merely a moral obligation but a reflection of the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life. Galatians 5:22-23 lists kindness as a fruit of the Spirit, indicating that it is a natural outgrowth of a life surrendered to God. As believers grow in their relationship with Christ, they are increasingly conformed to His image, which includes developing a kindhearted nature.

In summary, kindheartedness is a vital Christian virtue that mirrors the character of God and the teachings of Jesus. It is both a divine attribute and a human responsibility, calling believers to act with love, compassion, and mercy in their daily lives.2155. eusplagchnos -- tenderhearted, compassionate
... Word Origin from eu and splagchnon Definition tenderhearted, compassionate NASB
Word Usage kindhearted (1), tender-hearted (1). pitiful, tender-hearted. ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2155.htm - 7k

3675. homophron -- agreeing
... 3675 ("of the same perspective") is used only in 1 Pet 3:8: "To sum up, all of you
be ['of one mind,' 3675 ], sympathetic, brotherly, kindhearted, and humble ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3675.htm - 7k

The Church Staff
... SB Halliday had seen considerable service in mission work in New York City, was
a man of genial character, great sympathy, kindhearted, and painstaking in the ...
/.../griswold/sixty years with plymouth church/the church staff.htm

Faith (Preached Before the Queen at Windsor, December 5, 1865)
... amended?'. Meanwhile, we are sorry (for the English are a kindhearted people)
for the victims of our luxury and our neglect. Sorry ...
/.../the water of life and other sermons/sermon xiii faith preached before.htm

The Life of Anne Catherine Emmerich
... A kindhearted servant belonging to the monastery attended upon her out of charity,
and an aged emigrant priest, who said Mass in the convent, remained also ...
/.../the dolorous passion of our lord jesus christ/the life of anne catherine.htm

The God of the Aged
... comforting the young believer. There is no one more qualified that I know of
than a kindhearted old men to convert the young. I know that ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 2 1856/the god of the aged.htm

Kindhearted (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Kindhearted (1 Occurrence). 1 Peter 3:8 In conclusion,
all of you should be of one mind, quick to sympathize ...
/k/kindhearted.htm - 6k

Kind-hearted (3 Occurrences)
Kind-hearted. Kindhearted, Kind-hearted. Kindle . Noah Webster's Dictionary ...
(BBE). Kindhearted, Kind-hearted. Kindle . Reference Bible.
/k/kind-hearted.htm - 7k

Kindest (1 Occurrence)

/k/kindest.htm - 6k

What is the character of God? | GotQuestions.org

Kindhearted: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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