Topical Encyclopedia Tenderness, as a biblical concept, encompasses the qualities of gentleness, compassion, and sensitivity towards others. It is a virtue that reflects the character of God and is encouraged among believers as a manifestation of love and humility.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, tenderness is often associated with God's compassionate nature. The Hebrew word "racham," often translated as "compassion" or "tender mercy," illustrates God's tender care for His people. For instance, in Isaiah 63:9, it is written, "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" . This passage highlights God's tender involvement in the lives of the Israelites, demonstrating His deep care and concern. Tenderness is also evident in the relationships between individuals. In the account of Ruth and Naomi, Ruth's tender loyalty and care for her mother-in-law exemplify the selfless love that God desires among His people (Ruth 1:16-17). New Testament Context The New Testament further develops the theme of tenderness, particularly through the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. Jesus embodies tenderness in His interactions with others, showing compassion to the marginalized and the suffering. In Matthew 9:36, it is noted, "When He saw the crowds, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd" . Jesus' tender heart led Him to heal the sick, comfort the grieving, and offer forgiveness to sinners. The Apostle Paul encourages believers to emulate Christ's tenderness in their relationships. In Colossians 3:12, Paul writes, "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience" . Here, tenderness is linked with other virtues that foster unity and love within the Christian community. Theological Significance Tenderness is a reflection of God's own nature and is integral to the Christian life. It is an expression of the love that believers are called to exhibit towards one another. The tender heart is sensitive to the needs and sufferings of others, prompting acts of kindness and mercy. This virtue is not merely an emotional response but a deliberate choice to act in love and humility. Practical Application In practical terms, tenderness can be cultivated through prayer, reflection on Scripture, and the intentional practice of empathy and kindness. Believers are encouraged to seek the Holy Spirit's guidance in developing a tender heart, one that mirrors the compassion of Christ. By doing so, they become instruments of God's love in a world often marked by harshness and indifference. Tenderness, therefore, is not only a personal virtue but a communal one, fostering relationships that reflect the love and grace of God. Through tenderness, believers can bear witness to the transformative power of the Gospel, drawing others to the gentle and loving heart of God. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) The quality or state of being tender (in any sense of the adjective).Greek 4115. platuno -- to make broad ... platuno Phonetic Spelling: (plat-oo'-no) Short Definition: I enlarge Definition: I enlarge, make broad; met: of the growth of tenderness and love. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4115.htm - 6k 5368. phileo -- to love Strong's Hebrew 7391. rok -- tenderness, delicacy... 7390, 7391. rok. 7392 . tenderness, delicacy. Transliteration: rok Phonetic Spelling: (roke) Short Definition: refinement. ... tenderness. ... /hebrew/7391.htm - 6k Library Tenderness. How Sweetness and Tenderness in Prayer Differ from Consolations. ... Psalm 119 Part 13 Holy Fear, and Tenderness of Conscience. The Judicial Severity of Christ and the Tenderness of the Creator ... Psalm 119:13. Thirteenth Part. Holy Fear, and Tenderness of ... Friendship. Anathema and Grace The Love of the Departing Christ Two Fortresses The Forty Days Thesaurus Tenderness (4 Occurrences)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (n.) The quality or state of being tender (in any sense of the adjective). Multi-Version Concordance Tenderness (4 Occurrences). ... /t/tenderness.htm - 8k Tenderly (9 Occurrences) Deuteronomy (1 Occurrence) Delicacy (1 Occurrence) Crimes (22 Occurrences) Crime (45 Occurrences) Yearn (4 Occurrences) Venture (10 Occurrences) Kind (290 Occurrences) Unction (2 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about selfishness? | GotQuestions.orgHow should a Christian woman deal with menopause? | GotQuestions.org Was the Apostle Paul actually a false prophet? | GotQuestions.org Tenderness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Tenderness (4 Occurrences)Philippians 2:1 James 5:11 Deuteronomy 28:56 Isaiah 63:15 Subtopics Related Terms |
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