Topical Encyclopedia Sympathy, as a Christian virtue, is the ability to feel compassion and sorrow for the sufferings and misfortunes of others. It is an expression of love and empathy, reflecting the character of Christ and the teachings of Scripture. The Bible provides numerous passages that encourage believers to practice sympathy, demonstrating care and concern for others in their times of need.Old Testament References 1. Job 2:11 · "Now when Job’s three friends heard about all this adversity that had come upon him, each of them came from his own place... They met together to go and sympathize with Job and comfort him." This passage highlights the initial intention of Job's friends to show sympathy and comfort in his time of suffering. 2. Isaiah 63:9 · "In all their distress, He too was afflicted, and the Angel of His Presence saved them. In His love and compassion, He redeemed them; He lifted them up and carried them all the days of old." Here, God's sympathy for His people is evident, as He shares in their afflictions and acts to deliver them. New Testament References 1. Romans 12:15 · "Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep." This verse calls believers to share in the emotional experiences of others, both in joy and in sorrow, demonstrating a heart of sympathy. 2. 1 Peter 3:8 · "Finally, all of you, be like-minded and sympathetic, love as brothers, be tenderhearted and humble." Peter exhorts the Christian community to cultivate sympathy as part of their mutual love and unity. 3. Hebrews 4:15 · "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have One who was tempted in every way that we are, yet was without sin." This passage speaks of Jesus Christ, our High Priest, who fully understands and sympathizes with human frailty. 4. Philippians 2:1-2 · "Therefore if you have any encouragement in Christ, if any comfort from His love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being united in spirit and purpose." Paul encourages believers to exhibit compassion and sympathy as a reflection of their unity in Christ. Practical Expressions of Sympathy 1. Galatians 6:2 · "Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." Sympathy is practically expressed through bearing the burdens of others, offering support and assistance in times of need. 2. James 1:27 · "Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." True religion involves showing sympathy and care for those who are vulnerable and in distress. 3. Colossians 3:12 · "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." Believers are called to embody compassion and kindness, essential components of a sympathetic heart. Sympathy, as taught in Scripture, is an essential aspect of Christian living, reflecting the love and compassion of Christ. It involves entering into the experiences of others, offering comfort, and providing practical help, thereby fulfilling the law of love. Nave's Topical Index Job 2:11-13Now when Job's three friends heard of all this evil that was come on him, they came every one from his own place; Eliphaz the Temanite, and Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite: for they had made an appointment together to come to mourn with him and to comfort him. Nave's Topical Index Job 6:14 Job 22:29 Ecclesiastes 7:2 Philippians 2:1,2 James 1:27 1 Peter 3:8 Library The Scriptures Reveal Eternal Life through Jesus Christ General Index. Introduction The General Conference of 1836 Messiah's Easy Yoke The General Conference of 1820 Concerning Worship. From the Close of the General Conference of 1816 to the ... From the Close of the General Conference of 1812 to the Death of ... The General Conference of 1840 Resources What is the spiritual gift of mercy? | GotQuestions.orgWhat was Eliphaz the Temanite's message to Job? | GotQuestions.org What impact did Friedrich Nietzsche have on the Christian faith? | GotQuestions.org Sympathy: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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