Compassion of God

The compassion of God is a central theme throughout the Bible, reflecting His deep love and mercy towards humanity. The Hebrew word often translated as "compassion" is "racham," which conveys a sense of deep, tender love, akin to the love a parent has for a child. In the New Testament, the Greek word "oiktirmos" is used, emphasizing mercy and pity.

In the Old Testament, God's compassion is frequently highlighted in His dealings with Israel. Despite their repeated disobedience, God continually shows mercy. In Exodus 34:6, God reveals Himself to Moses, proclaiming, "The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion and truth." This self-revelation underscores the compassionate nature of God as foundational to His character.

The Psalms often celebrate God's compassion. Psalm 103:13-14 states, "As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him. For He knows our frame; He is mindful that we are dust." Here, God's compassion is likened to that of a loving father, understanding and patient with human frailty.

In the New Testament, the compassion of God is most vividly demonstrated in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Jesus' actions and teachings consistently reflect divine compassion. 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 leads Him to heal the sick, feed the hungry, and ultimately offer Himself as a sacrifice for sin.

Longsuffering of God

The longsuffering of God, often translated as "patience" or "forbearance," is another significant attribute of His character. The Hebrew word "erek" and the Greek word "makrothumia" convey the idea of being slow to anger and enduring patiently.

God's longsuffering is evident in His dealings with humanity throughout history. Despite the persistent sinfulness of mankind, God withholds immediate judgment, allowing time for repentance. In the days of Noah, God demonstrated longsuffering by delaying the flood, giving people time to repent (1 Peter 3:20).

The prophet Joel calls the people to repentance, reminding them of God's patience: "Return to the LORD your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion" (Joel 2:13). This call to repentance is grounded in the assurance of God's patient and forgiving nature.

In the New Testament, the apostle Peter highlights God's longsuffering as an expression of His desire for all to come to repentance. In 2 Peter 3:9, it is written, "The Lord is not slow to fulfill His promise as some understand slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." Here, God's patience is portrayed as an opportunity for salvation.

The apostle Paul also speaks of God's longsuffering in Romans 2:4, where he asks, "Or do you disregard the riches of His kindness, tolerance, and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness leads you to repentance?" God's patience is thus seen as an extension of His kindness, intended to lead sinners to repentance and reconciliation with Him.

Throughout Scripture, God's compassion and longsuffering are intertwined, revealing a God who is both just and merciful, desiring that none should perish but that all should come to a knowledge of the truth.