See How They Love One Another! The Ministry of Compassion in Scripture and Early Christianity to 300 AD.

Abstract

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:34–35 NIV)

“See how they love one another!” Tertullian’s famous quote on how Christians were viewed by their contemporaries reminds us of the unique identity and opportunity that we have on this earth. This essay will formulate a working definition of compassion ministry based on biblical exposition. Special emphasis will be given to the work of the New Testament church. Questions to be considered may include: Where do we see a vibrant ministry of compassion at work formally? Was mercy ministry always missional or was it sometimes done for its own sake in keeping the law of love? What difference did the Christian view of mercy ministry make as early Christians interfaced with a pagan society?