Empathy—the ability to understand and share the feelings of another—has become a rare commodity in modern America. As division grows across political, social, and cultural lines, the ability to truly listen, care, and connect with others has diminished. But what does the Bible say about empathy? Why is its decline a serious issue, and what can Christians do about it?
Defining Empathy
Before discussing the problem, we must define empathy. Unlike sympathy, which is feeling pity for someone, empathy involves stepping into another person’s shoes and sharing in their experiences. The Bible calls us to this kind of compassion:
- Romans 12:15 – “Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.”
- 1 Corinthians 12:26 – “And if one part of the body suffers, all the parts suffer with it; if a part is honored, all the parts rejoice with it.”
- Hebrews 4:15 – “For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things just as we are, yet without sin.”
Even Jesus Himself demonstrated empathy, feeling the pain and struggles of humanity firsthand.
The Decline of Empathy in Society
As society moves further from biblical principles, self-centeredness and division have taken hold. The Bible warns of this:
- 2 Timothy 3:1-3 – “But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, slanderers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, irreconcilable, malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of good.”
- Matthew 24:12 – “And because lawlessness is increased, most people’s love will become cold.”
- Proverbs 21:13 – “One who shuts his ear to the outcry of the poor will also call out himself, and not be answered.”
Social media has exacerbated this crisis. People engage in heated arguments without considering the humanity of those they debate. Instead of seeking understanding, many prefer to win arguments or silence opposing views.
Political and Cultural Polarization
Politics has become a battlefield where empathy is often sacrificed for power. Instead of listening to one another, political leaders and media outlets stoke division. The Bible provides guidance on how people should conduct themselves:
- Micah 6:8 – “He has told you, mortal one, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
- Proverbs 15:1 – “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
- James 1:19-20 – “You know this, my beloved brothers and sisters. Now everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger; for a man’s anger does not bring about the righteousness of God.”
Rather than seeking common ground, many prefer to vilify those with differing opinions. However, as followers of Christ, we are called to be peacemakers (Matthew 5:9).
The Church and Empathy
Even within the Church, a lack of empathy can be found. Some Christians struggle to love those outside their immediate circles. Yet, Jesus provided the ultimate example of empathy through His interactions with society’s outcasts:
- Luke 10:33-34 – “But a Samaritan who was on a journey came upon him; and when he saw him, he felt compassion, and came to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring oil and wine on them; and he put him on his own animal, and brought him to an inn and took care of him.”
- John 13:34-35 – “I am giving you a new commandment, that you love one another; just as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all people will know that you are My disciples: if you have love for one another.”
- Matthew 25:35-40 – “For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in… Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it for one of the least of these brothers or sisters of Mine, you did it for Me.”
True Christianity is not about political alliances or social status—it is about love and service to others.
A Call to Action
So, what can we do to restore empathy in our lives and communities? The Bible provides clear guidance:
- Mark 12:31 – “The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.”
- Galatians 6:2 – “Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ.”
- Colossians 3:12-13 – “So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so must you do also.”
Here are some practical ways we can cultivate empathy:
- Listen actively – Instead of preparing a response while others speak, truly hear what they are saying.
- Engage with different perspectives – Seek to understand those who think differently rather than immediately dismissing them.
- Serve others – Volunteering, giving, and acts of kindness soften our hearts toward others.
- Pray for a compassionate heart – Ask God to help you see people through His eyes.
- Lead by example – Show empathy even when others do not.
Conclusion
Empathy is not just a societal nicety—it is a biblical mandate. In a world growing colder, we as Christians must stand apart by demonstrating the love of Christ. Only by doing so can we hope to bridge divides and bring healing to our communities.
Let us strive to embody Christ’s love, for “By this all people will know that you are My disciples: if you have love for one another” (John 13:35).