Topical Bible: Love to Man: should be Exhibited, in Sympathising

◄ Love to Man: should be Exhibited, in Sympathising ►

Jump to: Torrey's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

In the Christian tradition, love for one's fellow man is a fundamental tenet that is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Bible. This love is not merely an abstract concept but is to be actively demonstrated through acts of sympathy and compassion. The Bible provides numerous examples and exhortations that highlight the importance of sympathizing with others as an expression of love.

Biblical Foundation

The call to love and sympathize with others is grounded in the Great Commandment, as articulated by Jesus in the Gospels. In Matthew 22:39 , Jesus commands, "Love your neighbor as yourself." This directive underscores the necessity of empathy and understanding in our interactions with others. Sympathy, as an expression of love, involves sharing in the joys and sorrows of others, thereby fulfilling the law of Christ.

Sympathy in Action

The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, frequently emphasizes the importance of bearing one another's burdens. In Galatians 6:2 , he writes, "Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." This passage highlights the practical aspect of love through sympathy, encouraging believers to support and uplift each other in times of need.

Furthermore, in Romans 12:15 , Paul instructs, "Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep." This verse encapsulates the essence of sympathy, urging Christians to engage emotionally with others, sharing in their experiences, whether joyful or sorrowful. Such empathetic engagement is a tangible demonstration of love and solidarity within the Christian community.

The Example of Christ

Jesus Christ serves as the ultimate model of love and sympathy. Throughout the Gospels, His life and ministry are marked by acts of compassion and empathy. In John 11:35 , the shortest verse in the Bible, "Jesus wept," we see a profound example of His sympathy. Jesus weeps at the death of Lazarus, sharing in the grief of Mary and Martha, demonstrating His deep love and empathy for those He came to save.

Moreover, in Matthew 9:36 , it is recorded, "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 for the multitudes reflects His deep sympathy for the human condition, motivating His ministry and sacrificial love.

Practical Implications

The call to exhibit love through sympathy has practical implications for believers. It challenges Christians to be attentive to the needs and emotions of others, offering comfort and support. This can be manifested in various ways, such as providing a listening ear, offering words of encouragement, or extending practical help to those in distress.

In the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37), Jesus illustrates the importance of active compassion. The Samaritan's willingness to help the injured man, despite cultural and social barriers, exemplifies the kind of sympathetic love that Jesus calls His followers to exhibit.

Conclusion

While the Bible provides a clear mandate for Christians to love and sympathize with others, it is important to recognize that this is not merely a passive feeling but an active, intentional practice. By following the example of Christ and adhering to the teachings of Scripture, believers are called to embody a love that is both empathetic and transformative, reflecting the heart of God to a world in need.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Romans 12:15
Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Corinthians 12:26
And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honored, all the members rejoice with it.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Night Darkened Steadily Down Over London, -- a Chill Dreary ...
... with a look that conveyed the brightness of perfect love straight from ... see all the
history of their lives we should pity them ... No one save Man!" responded Manuel ...
/.../corelli/the master-christian/xxxix the night darkened steadily.htm

1877-1879. "They Helped Every one his Neighbour" --Miss Child, a ...
... the gnawings of real hunger we should not wonder ... of Jesus through their own experience
of His great love. ... fitting them for honourable service for God and man. ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/lowe/gods answers/chapter vii 1877-1879 they helped.htm

The Life of Anne Catherine Emmerich
... and entered into her heart"that heart so burning with love of Jesus ... for it is only
required that certain useless shoots should be cut off in man, and to ...
/.../the dolorous passion of our lord jesus christ/the life of anne catherine.htm