Topical Bible: Character of the Renewed Heart: Sympathising

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The character of the renewed heart, as described in Scripture, is marked by a profound capacity for sympathy. This quality reflects the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life, aligning their heart with the compassionate nature of Christ. Sympathy, in the biblical sense, involves a deep sense of empathy and a willingness to share in the joys and sorrows of others, demonstrating the love of God in tangible ways.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that highlight the importance of a sympathizing heart. In Romans 12:15, the Apostle Paul instructs believers to "Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep" . This verse encapsulates the essence of sympathy, urging Christians to enter into the emotional experiences of others, whether they be moments of celebration or times of mourning.

The life of Jesus Christ serves as the ultimate model of sympathy. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus is depicted as one who is deeply moved by the suffering of others. 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 led Him to heal the sick, feed the hungry, and offer hope to the downtrodden, demonstrating that true sympathy is accompanied by action.

Sympathy in the Early Church

The early church exemplified the character of a renewed heart through their acts of sympathy and mutual care. In Acts 2:44-45, we read, "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 lifestyle was a practical expression of their sympathy, as they prioritized the needs of others above their own.

The Apostle Paul, in his letters, frequently encouraged the churches to cultivate a spirit of sympathy. 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" . Here, Paul emphasizes that sympathy is an essential garment for the believer, a visible expression of their renewed nature.

Practical Expressions of Sympathy

Sympathy, as a characteristic of the renewed heart, manifests in various practical ways. It involves listening attentively to others, offering words of comfort, and providing practical assistance to those in need. James 1:27 highlights the importance of caring for the vulnerable, stating, "Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world" .

Furthermore, the call to bear one another's burdens, as found in Galatians 6:2, underscores the active nature of sympathy: "Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ" . This directive encourages believers to support each other through life's challenges, reflecting the love and compassion of Christ.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The ability to sympathize with others is not merely a natural disposition but a fruit of the Spirit's work within the believer. As the Holy Spirit transforms the heart, He cultivates qualities such as love, kindness, and gentleness, which are essential for genuine sympathy. Galatians 5:22-23 lists these fruits, reminding believers that their capacity to sympathize is rooted in their relationship with God.

In summary, the character of the renewed heart is marked by a deep and abiding sympathy for others. This quality, modeled by Christ and encouraged throughout Scripture, is a testament to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer. Through acts of compassion and empathy, Christians are called to reflect the heart of God to a hurting world.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Jeremiah 4:19
My bowels, my bowels! I am pained at my very heart; my heart makes a noise in me; I cannot hold my peace, because you have heard, O my soul, the sound of the trumpet, the alarm of war.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Lamentations 3:51
My eye affects my heart because of all the daughters of my city.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Prayer Born of Compassion
... compassion, the kind born in a renewed heart, which is ... these multitudes stirred the
pity of His heart. ... striking attributes of the Divine character: "The Lord ...
/.../bounds/the essentials of prayer/x prayer born of compassion.htm

For whom did Christ Die?
... the godless"can Christ love these for their character? ... ungodly and impious men would
take heart and run ... boasting; for when their hearts are renewed and made ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 20 1874/for whom did christ die.htm

From the End of the Third Continental Journey, in 1834, to the ...
... a hymn most suited by its general character to the ... holy Head and High Priest, there
is a renewed visitation to ... the Holy Spirit, as operating on the heart of man ...
/.../chapter xiv from the end.htm

The Life of Anne Catherine Emmerich
... the flesh were torn from around the heart." In my ... acts appeared to her stamped with
the character of eternity ... purpose they had to be repeated and renewed in the ...
/.../the dolorous passion of our lord jesus christ/the life of anne catherine.htm

Rationalism and Its Effects
... the moral law implanted in the heart of every ... government became acquainted with the
dangerous character of the ... This condemnation has been renewed by several of ...
/.../chapter viii rationalism and its.htm

part ii
... regenerate and renew you, nevertheless, owing to your negligence, you are not yet
regenerate nor renewed, being given up in the depths of your heart to the ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm