Compassion

Compassion is a central theme in the Bible, reflecting God's character and His expectations for His people. The Hebrew word often translated as "compassion" is "racham," which conveys a deep, tender love and mercy. In the New Testament, the Greek word "splagchnizomai" is used, indicating a visceral, heartfelt response to the suffering of others.

The Bible frequently portrays God as compassionate. In Exodus 34:6, God describes Himself to Moses: "The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion and truth." This self-revelation underscores the importance of compassion as an attribute of God, which He extends to His creation.

Jesus Christ exemplifies compassion throughout His earthly ministry. 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 often led to action, such as healing the sick, feeding the hungry, and teaching the lost.

Believers are called to emulate God's compassion. Colossians 3:12 instructs, "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." This call to compassion is not merely an emotional response but a commitment to act in love and mercy towards others.

Community

The concept of community is deeply embedded in the biblical narrative, beginning with the creation of humanity. In Genesis 2:18, God declares, "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him." This statement highlights the inherent need for relationship and community.

The nation of Israel serves as an early model of community, bound together by covenant with God. The Israelites were instructed to care for one another, particularly the vulnerable, as seen in Deuteronomy 15:11: "For there will never cease to be poor in the land. Therefore I command you to open wide your hand to your brother, to the needy and to the poor in your land."

In the New Testament, the church emerges as a new community, united in Christ. Acts 2:42-47 provides a vivid picture of the early Christian community: "They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer... All the believers were together and had everything in common." This passage illustrates the communal life of believers, characterized by shared resources, mutual support, and spiritual growth.

The Apostle Paul emphasizes the interconnectedness of the church in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, using the metaphor of the body to describe the church. Verse 26 states, "If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it." This imagery underscores the importance of unity and mutual care within the Christian community.

The Bible calls believers to live in community, reflecting the love and compassion of Christ. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages, "And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching." This exhortation highlights the role of community in fostering spiritual growth and perseverance in faith.