Topical Encyclopedia Compassion and sympathy are central tenets of Christian conduct, particularly in the context of relationships among believers, often referred to as "saints" in the New Testament. These virtues are not merely emotional responses but are seen as active expressions of love and unity within the body of Christ.Biblical Foundation The call to exercise compassion and sympathy towards fellow believers is deeply rooted in Scripture. In Colossians 3:12, the Apostle Paul exhorts the saints: "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." This passage highlights compassion as a fundamental characteristic of those chosen by God, urging believers to embody these virtues in their interactions with one another. Similarly, in 1 Peter 3:8, the apostle Peter instructs, "Finally, all of you, be like-minded and sympathetic, love as brothers, be tender-hearted and humble." Here, sympathy is coupled with brotherly love and humility, emphasizing the importance of a unified and empathetic community. Practical Expressions Compassion and sympathy among saints are manifested in various practical ways. In Galatians 6:2, Paul writes, "Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." This directive underscores the importance of sharing in the struggles and challenges faced by fellow believers, thereby fulfilling the commandment to love one another as Christ loved us. The early church provides a model for such compassionate living. Acts 2:44-45 describes the believers as having "all things in common" and selling their possessions to distribute to anyone in need. This radical expression of compassion and sympathy illustrates the depth of commitment to one another within the early Christian community. Encouragement and Comfort Compassion and sympathy also involve offering encouragement and comfort to those who are suffering. In 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, Paul praises God as "the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God." This passage highlights the reciprocal nature of comfort among believers, as they draw from the divine source of compassion to support one another. Unity and Harmony The exercise of compassion and sympathy is essential for maintaining unity and harmony within the church. Ephesians 4:2-3 urges believers to "be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." Compassionate and sympathetic interactions contribute to the peace and unity that are vital for the health and witness of the Christian community. Conclusion The exercise of compassion and sympathy towards fellow saints is a vital aspect of Christian discipleship. It reflects the character of Christ and fosters a community marked by love, unity, and mutual support. Through these virtues, believers are called to live out their faith in tangible and transformative ways, embodying the love of Christ to one another and to the world. Torrey's Topical Textbook 1 Corinthians 12:25,26That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Compassion of Jesus Our Compassionate High Priest The Saints' Privilege and Profit; Letter Xl. (AD 397. ) Prevailing Prayer. Concerning Worship. Attributes of Love. False Comforts for Sinners. The Martyrdom of Stephen. The Use of Fear in Religion. Resources How should Christians respond to global poverty and hunger? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about caregiving? | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning of the Parable of the Prodigal Son? | GotQuestions.org Compassion: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Compassion and Sympathy: Christ Set an Example of Compassion and Sympathy: David Compassion and Sympathy: Elijah Compassion and Sympathy: Exercise Towards: Enemies Compassion and Sympathy: Exercise Towards: Saints Compassion and Sympathy: Exercise Towards: The Afflicted Compassion and Sympathy: Exercise Towards: The Chastened Compassion and Sympathy: Exercise Towards: The Poor Compassion and Sympathy: Exercise Towards: The Weak Compassion and Sympathy: Exhortation To Compassion and Sympathy: Illustrated Compassion and Sympathy: Inseparable from Love to God Compassion and Sympathy: Job's Friends Compassion and Sympathy: Motives to The Compassion of God Compassion and Sympathy: Motives to The Sense of Our Infirmities Compassion and Sympathy: Nehemiah Compassion and Sympathy: Pharaoh's Daughter Compassion and Sympathy: Promise to Those Who Show Compassion and Sympathy: Shobi Compassion and Sympathy: The Wicked Made to Feel, for Saints The Compassion and Sympathy of Christ: An Encouragement to Prayer The Compassion and Sympathy of Christ: Manifested for The: Afflicted The Compassion and Sympathy of Christ: Manifested for The: Diseased The Compassion and Sympathy of Christ: Manifested for The: Perishing Sinners The Compassion and Sympathy of Christ: Manifested for The: Poor The Compassion and Sympathy of Christ: Manifested for The: Tempted The Compassion and Sympathy of Christ: Manifested for The: Weak in Faith The Compassion and Sympathy of Christ: Manifested for The: Weary and Heavy-Laden The Compassion and Sympathy of Christ: Necessary to his Priestly office Related Terms Compassionate (22 Occurrences) Fellow-bondman (6 Occurrences) |
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