Biblical Answer

Balancing Personal Values with Biblical Teachings on Compassion

Understanding Compassion in Scripture

Compassion and rebuke are not mutually exclusive. In fact, the Bible teaches that compassion and judgment can coexist. For instance, in Matthew 5:38-41, Jesus teaches that we should love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. However, in Ephesians 4:2-13, we are also exhorted to put on the virtues that find their orientation in Christ, including kindness, compassion, and humility. This suggests that compassion is not just about feeling sorry for someone, but also about taking concrete actions to help them.

The Compassion of Jesus

Jesus himself practiced compassion towards sinners and those in need. He showed particular attention to those who fell between the cracks of respectability, such as tax collectors and sinners. This was not just a sentimental gesture, but a deliberate act of kindness that reflected God's love and mercy. As the Bible says in Jude 22, "And on some have compassion, making a difference." Jesus' compassion was not just about feeling sorry for people, but about making a real difference in their lives.

Balancing Personal Values with Biblical Teachings

So how do we balance our personal values with biblical teachings on compassion? First, we need to understand that compassion is not just about feeling sorry for someone, but about taking concrete actions to help them. This means that we need to put on the virtues that find their orientation in Christ, including kindness, compassion, and humility. We also need to be willing to rebuke those who are sinning, not in a spirit of condemnation, but in a spirit of love and compassion. As Jesus said, "Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy." By balancing our personal values with biblical teachings on compassion, we can become more like Jesus and make a real difference in the lives of those around us.