Topical Encyclopedia The term "unkind" refers to actions, words, or attitudes that lack compassion, empathy, or consideration for others. In the biblical context, unkindness is often contrasted with the virtues of love, kindness, and mercy, which are central to Christian teaching and the character of God.Biblical References and Teachings 1. Nature of Unkindness: Unkindness is often associated with behaviors that are contrary to the fruit of the Spirit. In Galatians 5:22-23, the Apostle Paul lists the fruit of the Spirit, which includes kindness: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control." Unkindness, therefore, is seen as a work of the flesh, opposing the Spirit's work in a believer's life. 2. Jesus' Teachings: Jesus emphasized the importance of kindness and love towards others, even towards one's enemies. In the Sermon on the Mount, He taught, "But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" (Matthew 5:44). This radical call to love and kindness extends beyond mere tolerance, urging believers to actively seek the good of others. 3. Parables and Examples: The Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) is a profound illustration of kindness in action. The Samaritan's willingness to help a wounded stranger, despite cultural animosities, exemplifies the kind of love and compassion that Jesus calls His followers to exhibit. Unkindness, in contrast, is depicted in the actions of the priest and the Levite, who chose to ignore the man's plight. 4. Apostolic Instructions: The apostles frequently instructed early Christians to practice kindness. In Ephesians 4:32, Paul writes, "Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you." This exhortation highlights the transformative power of kindness, rooted in the forgiveness and grace believers have received through Christ. 5. Consequences of Unkindness: Unkindness can lead to division and strife within the community of believers. James warns against the destructive nature of the tongue, which can be a source of unkind words: "With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God’s likeness" (James 3:9). The call to bridle the tongue is a call to avoid unkindness in speech. 6. God's Kindness as a Model: God's own kindness serves as the ultimate model for believers. In Titus 3:4-5, Paul speaks of the kindness and love of God our Savior, which appeared in the form of salvation through Jesus Christ. This divine kindness is not based on human merit but is an expression of God's grace and mercy. Practical Application Believers are encouraged to cultivate kindness as a reflection of their faith and as a testimony to the world. Acts of kindness, whether small or large, serve as tangible expressions of God's love. Christians are called to be mindful of their words and actions, ensuring they align with the character of Christ, who exemplified perfect kindness in His earthly ministry. In summary, unkindness is antithetical to the Christian life, which is marked by love, compassion, and a commitment to the well-being of others. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, believers are equipped to overcome unkind tendencies and to embody the kindness that reflects the heart of God. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (a.) Having no race or kindred; childless.2. (a.) Not kind; contrary to nature, or the law of kind or kindred; unnatural. 3. (a.) Wanting in kindness, sympathy, benevolence, gratitude, or the like; cruel; harsh; unjust; ungrateful. Library "As Verily as Sin is Unclean, So Verily is it Unkind" --A Disease ... "The Lord is Good" Twentieth Day. Not Retaliating. A Little Sermon to School-Girls. Putting Clouds Over the Sun The Words of Our Lips. Revival in the Home Social Joys of Heaven. Of Detraction. Lights and Shadows. Thesaurus Unkind (7 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Unkind (7 Occurrences). Romans 1:31 Without knowledge, not true to their undertakings, unkind, having no mercy: (BBE). ... /u/unkind.htm - 8k Nabal (18 Occurrences) Unmerciful (1 Occurrence) Undertakings (20 Occurrences) Unknowingly (3 Occurrences) Unkempt (3 Occurrences) Withholds (11 Occurrences) Treatment (6 Occurrences) Troubles (94 Occurrences) Evil-speakers (2 Occurrences) Resources Isn't it unloving to tell someone he/she is sinning? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible mean by longsuffering? | GotQuestions.org How should Christians respond to claims of a recent convert? | GotQuestions.org Unkind: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Unkind (7 Occurrences)Romans 1:31 2 Corinthians 12:10 Ephesians 4:31 2 Timothy 3:2 James 1:5 Proverbs 13:24 Lamentations 3:51 Subtopics Related Terms |
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