Introduction
Kindness, a virtue at the heart of Christian doctrine, resonates through the fabric of biblical teaching. This exploration delves into the Scriptures to uncover the depth and breadth of what the Bible says about kindness, illuminating its crucial role in the life of a believer.
The Essence of Kindness in Scripture
The Bible presents kindness as an integral aspect of a believer’s life, intertwined with the fruit of the Spirit and Christian conduct.
- Fruit of the Spirit: Galatians 5:22-23 (ESV): “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.”
Kindness is listed as a component of the fruit of the Spirit, signifying its importance in Christian character. This passage suggests that kindness, like other aspects of the fruit, is a natural result of living a life led by the Spirit, integral to our spiritual growth and maturity.
- Imitating God’s Kindness: Ephesians 4:32 (ESV): “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”
Here, believers are called to emulate God’s kindness, especially in the aspect of forgiveness. This verse connects kindness with being tenderhearted and forgiving, highlighting it as a reflection of the grace we have received in Christ.
- Clothed in Kindness: Colossians 3:12 (ESV): “Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience.”
This imagery of ‘putting on’ kindness suggests that it is a deliberate choice and action. Kindness, alongside other virtues like humility and patience, is presented as an essential garment in the wardrobe of a Christian’s virtues, to be worn and displayed in daily life.
- Adding Kindness to Faith: 2 Peter 1:7 (ESV): “For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with kindness.”
In this progression of Christian virtues, kindness is the culmination of growing in faith and godliness. It underscores the importance of kindness as an active expression of our faith, not as an afterthought but as a deliberate addition to our spiritual journey.
Kindness as a Reflection of God’s Character
Kindness in the Christian faith is deeply rooted in the character of God Himself. The Scriptures reveal how God’s kindness is both an attribute and an action, providing a model for believers.
- God’s Righteous Nature: Psalm 145:17 (ESV): “The Lord is righteous in all his ways and kind in all his works.”
This Psalm portrays God’s kindness as an intrinsic part of His righteous nature. It suggests that all of God’s actions, being rooted in His righteousness, are inherently kind. This verse serves as a reminder that true kindness is not merely an act but an expression of a righteous character.
- Kindness Leading to Repentance: Romans 2:4 (ESV): “Or do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God’s kindness is meant to lead you to repentance?”
Paul speaks of God’s kindness as a catalyst for repentance. This verse challenges the notion of taking God’s kindness for granted and instead recognizes it as a tool for spiritual transformation. It demonstrates that kindness, in its truest form, has the power to change hearts and minds.
- Kindness in Salvation: Ephesians 2:7 (ESV): “So that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.”
Here, the kindness of God is linked with grace in the act of salvation through Jesus Christ. This verse underscores that God’s ultimate expression of kindness was in sending His Son, revealing the depth and richness of His love and mercy.
- Manifestation of Kindness in Christ: Titus 3:4-5 (ESV): “But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit.”
In this passage, God’s kindness is personified in Jesus Christ, emphasizing that His coming and the salvation He brings epitomize divine kindness. It articulates that this kindness is a gift of mercy, independent of our deeds, highlighting the unearned and gracious nature of God’s kindness.
Kindness in Jesus’ Teachings
The teachings of Jesus Christ in the New Testament are rich with examples and parables that emphasize the importance of kindness. These teachings provide a clear directive for how Christians should embody kindness in their lives.
- Compassion for the Multitude: Matthew 9:36 (ESV): “When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.”
This verse captures Jesus’ response to seeing the needs of the people around Him. His compassion, a profound form of kindness, demonstrates His deep concern for the physical and spiritual well-being of others. It serves as a model for believers to follow, showing kindness not just in words, but in empathetic action.
- Loving Kindness for Enemies: Luke 6:35-36 (ESV): “But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil. Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful.”
Here, Jesus extends the concept of kindness beyond friends and family to include even enemies. This radical teaching challenges believers to show unconditional kindness, reflecting God’s character in loving the ungrateful and the evil. It’s a call to a higher standard of kindness that transcends human norms.
- Neither Condemn Nor Accuse: John 8:11 (ESV): “She said, ‘No one, Lord.’ And Jesus said, ‘Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.'”
In this encounter with the woman caught in adultery, Jesus demonstrates kindness through forgiveness and mercy. Instead of condemnation, He offers a chance for redemption, illustrating how kindness can be a powerful force for change and restoration in a person’s life.
- Blessed are the Merciful: Matthew 5:7 (ESV): “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.”
Part of the Beatitudes, this verse underscores the reciprocal nature of kindness and mercy. It teaches that showing mercy, a key aspect of kindness, not only benefits others but also brings blessings upon oneself, fostering a cycle of kindness within the community of faith.
The Practical Application of Kindness
The Bible not only teaches the importance of kindness but also provides guidance on its practical application in everyday life. This section examines how Christians can live out this virtue.
- Writing Kindness on Your Heart: Proverbs 3:3 (ESV): “Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart.”
This proverb encourages believers to internalize kindness as a core part of their being. It suggests that kindness, coupled with love and faithfulness, should be as close to us as a necklace around our neck and as integral to us as the words written on our hearts. It’s a call to make kindness an inseparable part of our identity.
- Doing Good to All: Luke 6:35 (ESV): “But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil.”
Jesus’ command to love enemies and do good without expecting anything in return is a radical expression of kindness. This teaching challenges us to extend kindness not just to those who will reciprocate, but even to those who might not appreciate or return it.
- Unexpected Kindness: Acts 28:2 (ESV): “The native people showed us unusual kindness, for they kindled a fire and welcomed us all, because it had begun to rain and was cold.”
In this narrative from Acts, the kindness shown by the native people to Paul and his companions is highlighted. This act of kindness, especially to strangers in need, exemplifies the practicality of kindness in action, revealing its power to transcend cultural and social barriers.
- Hospitality to Strangers: Hebrews 13:2 (ESV): “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.”
This verse underlines the importance of kindness through hospitality. It reminds us that our acts of kindness, even to those we do not know, hold significant value and can sometimes have unexpected outcomes, as in the biblical examples of angelic encounters.
The Impact of Kindness on Relationships
Kindness is a powerful tool in forging and strengthening relationships, reflecting Christ’s love in our interactions with others. This section explores biblical teachings on the role of kindness in relationships.
- Kindness in Reciprocity: Proverbs 11:17 (ESV): “A man who is kind benefits himself, but a cruel man hurts himself.”
This proverb highlights the reciprocal nature of kindness. It suggests that acts of kindness not only benefit the receiver but also enrich the giver, fostering positive relationships and personal well-being. Conversely, cruelty damages both relationships and the individual.
- Gentleness and Patience: Ephesians 4:2 (ESV): “With all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love.”
Paul’s advice to the Ephesians emphasizes kindness through humility, gentleness, and patience. These virtues are essential in maintaining harmony and understanding in relationships, especially within the church community. It’s a call to actively practice these qualities in our daily interactions.
- Forgiveness and Kindness: Colossians 3:13 (ESV): “Bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.”
The apostle Paul connects kindness with forgiveness, encouraging believers to emulate the forgiveness they have received from Christ. This verse underscores the importance of kindness in resolving conflicts and maintaining unity, showing that forgiveness is a key expression of kindness.
- Harmonious Living: 1 Peter 3:8-9 (ESV): “Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing.”
Peter calls for a community characterized by sympathy, love, and humility – all facets of kindness. This directive to bless others, even in the face of wrongdoing, highlights the transformative power of kindness in creating a harmonious and supportive community.
Kindness in the Early Church
The early Christian church, as depicted in the Acts of the Apostles, provides vivid examples of kindness in action, demonstrating how it was integral to the life and growth of the early Christian community.
- Generosity Among Believers: Acts 2:45 (ESV): “And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need.”
This verse illustrates the radical generosity and kindness of the early Christians. Their willingness to sell possessions and share the proceeds with those in need exemplifies a profound expression of kindness, rooted in love and community spirit.
- Sharing with Generosity: Acts 4:34-35 (ESV): “There was not a needy person among them, for as many as were owners of lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold and laid it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need.”
Again, the early church demonstrates remarkable kindness through communal support. This act of selling property and sharing resources ensured that no member of the community was in need, showcasing kindness as a practical and communal responsibility.
- Dorcas’ Acts of Kindness: Acts 9:36 (ESV): “In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha, who was always doing good and helping the poor.”
The story of Dorcas (Tabitha) highlights individual acts of kindness within the early church. Her life, dedicated to doing good and helping the poor, serves as a testament to the impact that personal acts of kindness can have within a community.
- Hospitality to Paul: Acts 28:7 (ESV): “Now in the neighborhood of that place were lands belonging to the chief man of the island, named Publius, who received us and entertained us hospitably for three days.”
The hospitality shown to Paul and his companions by Publius exemplifies kindness extended to strangers. This incident reflects the early Christian value of hospitality, an important aspect of kindness in the early church.
The Rewards of Kindness
The Scriptures not only advocate for kindness but also highlight the blessings and rewards that come from practicing this virtue. This section examines the biblical perspective on the rewards associated with kindness.
- Blessings for the Generous: Proverbs 19:17 (ESV): “Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.”
This proverb connects kindness with generosity, particularly towards the less fortunate. It suggests that acts of kindness are seen as lending to the Lord Himself, who promises repayment. This verse emphasizes that kindness has spiritual dividends, rewarding the giver in God’s own way.
- Serving Christ in Serving Others: Matthew 25:34-40 (ESV): “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me…'”
Jesus teaches that acts of kindness to the needy are seen as acts done unto Him. This passage underlines the profound spiritual significance of kindness, indicating that such deeds are integral to inheriting the kingdom of God. It portrays kindness as not just a moral act, but a central component of living out one’s faith.
- Blessings of Giving: Luke 14:13-14 (ESV): “But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you. For you will be repaid at the resurrection of the just.”
Here, Jesus highlights the blessing in showing kindness to those who cannot repay. This teaching encourages selfless acts of kindness, assuring heavenly reward over earthly reciprocation, thus framing kindness as an investment in eternal blessings.
- More Blessed to Give: Acts 20:35 (ESV): “In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.'”
Paul recalls Jesus’ words, emphasizing that there is greater blessing in giving than receiving. This principle elevates the act of kindness as a source of blessing, encouraging believers to find joy and fulfillment in the generosity of spirit.
Kindness as a Christian Witness
Kindness, as demonstrated by believers, is not only a personal virtue but also a powerful form of testimony to the Christian faith. This section explores how acts of kindness can be an effective witness to the grace and love of Christ.
- Shining Light through Good Works: Matthew 5:16 (ESV): “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
Jesus encourages believers to perform good works, like acts of kindness, in a way that others can see and be moved to glorify God. This teaching suggests that kindness is not just a moral duty, but a way to visibly demonstrate the character of God’s kingdom, inspiring others to seek Him.
- Honorable Conduct Among Outsiders: 1 Peter 2:12 (ESV): “Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation.”
Peter emphasizes the importance of honorable behavior, including kindness, especially in the presence of non-believers. This approach can positively influence others’ perceptions of the Christian faith, making kindness a strategic and impactful tool for evangelism and testimony.
- Doing Good to All: Galatians 6:10 (ESV): “So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.”
Paul instructs believers to seize every opportunity to do good to all people. This universal call to kindness serves as a testimony of the Christian’s commitment to living out the gospel, demonstrating Christ’s love in practical, tangible ways.
- Modeling Good Works: Titus 2:7-8 (ESV): “Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned…”
In this letter, Paul urges Titus to be a model of good works, including acts of kindness. This instruction highlights the role of kindness as an essential element of Christian leadership and witness, setting an example for others to follow.
Conclusion
Kindness, as revealed in the Bible, is a fundamental aspect of Christian conduct, reflecting God’s character and the teachings of Jesus Christ. It strengthens relationships, enriches the giver and receiver, and serves as a powerful witness to our faith. The early church exemplified kindness through acts of generosity and hospitality, setting a model for us today. As believers, we are called to practice kindness not only as a moral virtue but as a testament to the transformative power of Christ in our lives. Let us embrace kindness in our daily actions, knowing it is a key component of living out our Christian faith.