Compassion is a central theme in the Bible. God is described as being full of compassion, and His people are called to show compassion to others. Here are some key Bible verses about compassion:
Old Testament Verses on Compassion
Exodus 22:27
“You shall not afflict any widow or fatherless child.” (ESV)
God cares deeply for widows, orphans and the vulnerable. He calls His people to show compassion to those in need.
Deuteronomy 15:7-8
“If among you, one of your brothers should become poor, in any of your towns within your land that the Lord your God is giving you, you shall not harden your heart or shut your hand against your poor brother, but you shall open your hand to him and lend him sufficient for his need, whatever it may be.” (ESV)
God’s people are commanded not to ignore the needs of the poor, but to help meet their needs generously.
Psalm 86:15
“But you, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.” (ESV)
This verse emphasizes God’s compassionate nature. He is patient, loving and faithful to His people.
Psalm 103:13
“As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him.” (ESV)
God relates to His people with the tenderness and compassion of a loving father.
Psalm 145:8-9
“The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. The Lord is good to all, and his mercy is over all that he has made.” (ESV)
This passage highlights God’s compassion extending to all His creation. His love and mercy know no bounds.
New Testament Verses on Compassion
Matthew 9:36
“When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” (ESV)
Jesus was moved by compassion when He saw people’s needs. This motivated Him to minister to them.
Matthew 14:14
“When he went ashore he saw a great crowd, and he had compassion on them and healed their sick.” (ESV)
Again, Christ’s compassion led Him to respond to needs by healing the sick who came to Him.
Matthew 18:27
“And out of pity for him, the master of that servant released him and forgave him the debt.” (ESV)
In the parable of the unforgiving servant, the master showed compassion by forgiving a large debt.
Luke 10:33-34
“But a Samaritan, as he journeyed, came to where he was, and when he saw him, he had compassion. He went to him and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he set him on his own animal and brought him to an inn and took care of him.” (ESV)
The good Samaritan demonstrated compassion on a practical level by caring for the wounded man.
Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” (ESV)
We are to extend the compassion we have received from God to others by being kind, tenderhearted and forgiving.
Philippians 2:1
“So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy…” (ESV)
Christians are urged to have tender affection and sympathy for one another.
Colossians 3:12
“Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience.” (ESV)
Compassion is a virtue believers are called to actively develop as part of our new lives in Christ.
1 Peter 3:8
“Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind.” (ESV)
Again, Christ-followers are to be characterized by sympathy, love and tenderness.
Examples of Compassion in Action
The Bible not only instructs God’s people to be compassionate, but gives many examples of compassion in action:
- The Good Samaritan caring for the victim of robbery (Luke 10:30-37)
- Jesus healing and feeding the multitudes who came to him (Matt 14:14, 15:32)
- The early church sharing resources so no one was in need (Acts 4:32-35)
- Paul gathering a collection for the poor in Jerusalem (1 Cor 16:1-4)
- Jesus defending the woman caught in adultery from condemnation (John 8:2-11)
Why Should Christians Be Compassionate?
Scripture gives several reasons why compassion should mark the lives of Christ’s followers:
- We are imitating Christ who perfectly modeled compassion (Matt 9:36, 14:14)
- It is central to obeying the second greatest commandment to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Matt 22:39)
- God desires mercy, not religious sacrifice (Matt 9:13, 12:7)
- Those who show mercy will receive mercy from God (Matt 5:7)
- Compassion reflects the Father’s heart for the weak and suffering (Psalm 145:8-9)
- It testifies to the transforming work of the gospel in our lives (2 Cor 5:17)
Overcoming Obstacles to Compassion
Showing Christ-like compassion can be challenging in a self-centered culture. But Scripture gives guidance for developing this virtue:
- Look to God: Only He can give the grace and compassion we lack in ourselves (2 Cor 1:3-5).
- Pray for awareness: Ask God to open your eyes to the needs around you (Psalm 119:18).
- Examine motives: Selfishness and pride hinder compassion. Yield to the Spirit’s work in your heart (Gal 5:22-23).
- Take initiative: Don’t wait to be moved. Make a conscious effort to show compassion through your actions (Luke 10:25-37).
- Persevere: Have patience with yourself and others as you nurture compassionate habits (Col 3:12-13).
The Fruit of Compassion
Compassion blesses both the giver and receiver. Here are some fruits that flow from compassionate living:
- The lonely, hurting and outcast find belonging and care.
- Practical needs are met – hunger relieved, naked clothed, wounds healed.
- Oppression and injustice decrease as the vulnerable receive advocacy.
- Unity grows in the body of Christ as indifference yields to empathy.
- Barriers are broken down between people groups (Luke 10:25-37).
- The compassion of Christ becomes real to a watching world.
- Believers become more Christ-like as they share in His sufferings for others (Phil 3:10).
Living with gospel-motivated compassion blesses our communities and brings glory to God. It is a vital way for Christians to reveal Christ’s kingdom on earth as it is in heaven.