Topical Encyclopedia The term "sympathetic" refers to the ability to understand and share the feelings of another, demonstrating compassion and empathy. In the context of the Bible, sympathy is closely related to the concepts of love, mercy, and kindness, which are central to Christian teachings.Biblical Foundation Sympathy is rooted in the character of God, who is described as compassionate and merciful. In the Old Testament, God’s sympathy for His people is evident in His actions and commands. For instance, in Exodus 34:6, God reveals Himself to Moses as "The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion and truth." The New Testament further emphasizes the importance of sympathy through the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. Jesus is portrayed as the ultimate example of sympathy, as He consistently showed compassion to those in need. 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." Sympathy in Christian Living Believers are called to emulate the sympathy of Christ in their interactions with others. The Apostle Paul encourages Christians to be sympathetic in their relationships. In Romans 12:15, he writes, "Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep." This verse highlights the importance of sharing in the emotional experiences of others, both in times of joy and sorrow. The Apostle Peter also instructs believers to cultivate a sympathetic attitude. In 1 Peter 3:8, he exhorts, "Finally, all of you, be like-minded and sympathetic, love as brothers, be tenderhearted and humble." This call to sympathy is part of a broader appeal for unity and love within the Christian community. Sympathy and the Body of Christ The concept of sympathy is integral to the functioning of the Body of Christ, the Church. In 1 Corinthians 12:26, Paul describes the interconnectedness of believers: "If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it." This metaphor underscores the necessity of sympathy in maintaining the health and unity of the Church. Practical Expressions of Sympathy Sympathy can be expressed in various practical ways, such as offering comfort to those who are grieving, providing assistance to those in need, and being present with those who are suffering. The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) serves as a powerful illustration of sympathy in action, where the Samaritan shows compassion and care for a wounded stranger. Conclusion While the Bible does not use the term "sympathetic" explicitly, the concept is woven throughout Scripture, reflecting the heart of God and the call for believers to live in love and compassion toward one another. Through the example of Christ and the teachings of the apostles, Christians are encouraged to develop a sympathetic spirit, contributing to the unity and edification of the Church and the broader community. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (a.) Compassionate; affectionate; feeling for the pain of others.2. (a.) Produced by, or expressive of, sympathy. 3. (a.) Produced by sympathy; -- applied particularly to symptoms or affections. See Sympathy. 4. (a.) of or relating to the sympathetic nervous system or some of its branches; produced by stimulation on the sympathetic nervous system or some part of it; as, the sympathetic saliva, a modified form of saliva, produced from some of the salivary glands by stimulation of a sympathetic nerve fiber. Greek 4835. sumpathes -- sympathetic ... sympathetic. Part of Speech: Adjective Transliteration: sumpathes Phonetic Spelling: (soom-path-ace') Short Definition: sympathizing, compassionate Definition ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4835.htm - 6k 2155. eusplagchnos -- tenderhearted, compassionate 3675. homophron -- agreeing Strong's Hebrew 4597. Maay -- an Israelite musician... musician NASB Word Usage Maai (1). Maai. Probably from me'ah; sympathetic; Maai, an Israelite -- Maai. see HEBREW me'ah. 4596, 4597. Maay. 4598 . ... /hebrew/4597.htm - 6k Library Ninth Tractate. Are all Souls One?. How God Gives. The Church and Social Evils Healing and Service Practical Hints for Speakers Shaping a Prayer on the Anvil of the Knees. A Word in the Prayer. Friendship. Peter after his Escape Felicitous Phrases Thesaurus Sympathetic (1 Occurrence)... 4. (a.) of or relating to the sympathetic nervous system or some of its branches; produced by stimulation on the sympathetic nervous system or some part of it ... /s/sympathetic.htm - 7k Congratulate (7 Occurrences) Symeon (5 Occurrences) Writing (194 Occurrences) Zenas (1 Occurrence) Kind-hearted (3 Occurrences) Kind (290 Occurrences) Kindly (57 Occurrences) Unbelief (16 Occurrences) Widow (71 Occurrences) Resources What is folk religion? | GotQuestions.orgWho was John Foxe? What is Foxe's Book of Martyrs? | GotQuestions.org What is the history of the Bible in English? | GotQuestions.org Sympathetic: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Sympathetic (1 Occurrence)1 Peter 3:8 Subtopics Related Terms |
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