What does the Bible say about Compassion

What is it?

Mercy, a feeling of deep sympathy and sorrow for another who is stricken by misfortune, accompanied by a strong desire to alleviate the suffering. (from Dictionary.com)

What does the Bible say?

• God is compassionate – Exodus, 20:4-6, Psalms 145:8-9, Micah 7:18-20
• We should be kind and compassionate to one another - Ephesians 4:32, 1 Peter 3:8-9
• We should show mercy – Matthew 5:7

Examples:

• God saw Adam's need for a companion – Genesis 2:18
• Pharohs daughter - Exodus 2:1-9
• Jobs friends – Job 2:11-13
• David didnt kill saul, Elijah healed the widows son, etc

What did Jesus do?

• Healed people – Matthew 14:14, Matthew 20:30-34, Mark 1:40-42, Luke 7:12-16
• Feed people - Matthew 14:15-21. Matthew 15:30-38
• Wept over Jerusalem / Lazarus – Luke 19:39-44, John 11:32-45
• Prayed for Peter - Luke 22:31-32
• Died on the cross for sinners – John 3:16, Luke 23:33-34, John 15:9-14, Ephesians 1:1-6
• Commissioned Missions – Matthew 9:35-38, Matthew 28:18-20, Mark 16:15-16

How should we respond?

• Be aware of others needs and help - Luke 10:25-37, Matthew 25:34-45, James 1:26-27
• Do unto others as you would want them to do to you - Matthew 22:39, Luke 6:31
• Bear each other burdens – Galatians 6:2, Romans 12:13, 1 John 3:17-18
• Mourn with those that mourn – Job 2:11-13, Romans 12:15
• Don't hold grudges - Matthew 18:21-35, Ephesians 4:32, Romans 12:17-21