The compassion of Jesus (Matthew 11:28-30). Definition of compassion: suffering with another.
I. JESUS TAUGHT THREE PARABLES WHICH INCLUDED LESSONS ON COMPASSION:
A. Luke 10:30-37 (notice verse 33) – The parable of the good Samaritan (refer also to I John 3:17)
B. Luke 15:11-24 (notice verse 20) – Parable of the prodigal son
C. Matthew 18:21-35 (notice verse 27, 32-33) – Forgiveness
II. EXAMPLES OF THE COMPASSION OF JESUS:
A. Compassion for our trials and temptations (Hebrews 2:18, 4:14-5:2)
B. Compassion for people’s physical weaknesses (Matthew 9:35-38, 15:29-39)
C. Compassion for people’s infirmities. The healing of the:
1. Blind (Matthew 20:29-34)
2. Leper (Mark 1:40-42)
3. Demon possessed (Mark 5:18-19)
4. Evil spirit [Mark 9:17-27 (especially verse 22)]
D. Compassion for people’s grief in death
1. Raised a dead son (Luke 7:12-15)
2. Wept with Mary when Lazarus had died (John 11:32-35)
E. Compassion in judgement (John 8:3-11, 15, 7:24)
F. The Compassion of Jesus is seen in his association with the poor and “unclean” people.
1. Samaritans [John 4:5-42 (especially verses 9, 39-42)]
2. He touched a leper (Matthew 8:1-4)
3. Zacchaeus, a chief tax gatherer (Luke 19:1-10)
4. The great physician (Luke 5:27-32, 7:29)
G. Because Jesus told others what they needed to do (had compassion), he suffered
1. The rich young ruler rejected His teaching (Mark 10:17-22)
2. Jerusalem (Matthew 23:37-39)
H. The Compassion of Jesus can be seen during his crucifixion in His attitude toward:
1. His disciples before His death [John 17:12-26 (especially verses 15-17, 20-22, 24)]
2. Those who crucified Him (Luke 23:34)
3. The thief (Luke 23:42-43)
4. His Mother (John 19:26-27)