In Defense of Empathy and Compassion in Christianity

Empathy: The Heart of Civilization

A short while ago, one of the world's wealthiest men declared that empathy is the fundamental weakness of Western civilization. This billionaire, who bought himself a seat in the house of democracy, sees empathy as problematic. He places it at the center of his argument, labeling it as a supreme weakness. While it may be tempting to dismiss his words as the obtuse remarks of an out-of-touch, narcissistic individual, the reaction from others has been alarming. Some American Christian pastors have echoed this sentiment, going so far as to label empathy, of all things, a sin.

A Strange Reality

It feels jarring to find oneself writing a piece in defense of empathy and compassion in 2025, especially for Christian pastors. What is going on? How did we get here? The early months of this year have felt chaotic and regressive. Programs and infrastructures have been stripped or canceled altogether. People with brown skin have often been marginalized and even disappeared. Immigrants, fleeing traumatic horrors, are suffering from severe dehumanization.

Amid all this turmoil, life often feels overwhelming. The future looks bleak and hard to imagine. While many of us wouldn’t consider empathy a sin, it’s tempting to view it as something superfluous—just another emotion contributing to our collective overwhelm.

The Need for Empathy

Now more than ever, we need to foster empathy and compassion—especially for those caught in the crosshairs of current events. We must keep alive the vital feeling of empathy, which is our ability to understand and share in the feelings of others. This is crucial, even in the midst of ongoing political chaos.

It can be hypnotically tempting to think of shutting down empathy and compassion—just for a moment. It’s easy to imagine drifting off to sleep and waking up later to deal with these issues.

However, we are in grave danger if we allow the banishment of empathy and compassion from ourselves, our churches, and our country.

Pope Francis, one whom exemplified empathy and compassion.

The Consequences of Lacking Empathy

I can tell you where a lack of empathy and compassion leads—it’s not a place any of us should want to go. Without empathy, we render authentic connections impossible. The absence of empathy leads to horrific outcomes: crimes against humanity, indignities, and so much more.

Without this essential quality, we have no checks and balances against greed. In medicine, the complete absence of empathy is often identified as a key factor in diagnosing Narcissistic Personality Disorder. To lack empathy is a profound moral deficit.

Building Community Through Empathy

The absence of empathy cripples our humanity. It builds walls between ourselves and our fellow human beings. A lack of empathy prevents us from harnessing the power inherent in community. When empathy is absent, the "Haves" become consumed with keeping everything—money, power, land, food, resources—separate from the "Have-Nots."

Without compassion, we isolate ourselves from the collective strength that arises from unity. There is power in connection; the creative synergy that comes from understanding others can transform societies. By separating ourselves from empathy and compassion, we undermine our relationships, communities, and even our connection to God.

Empathy in the Christian Gospel

Far from being a fundamental weakness, these core essentials belong at the center of society. They are at the heart of what it means to be human. Empathy and compassion define the essence of the Christian gospel.

When Jesus was asked, "What is the greatest commandment?" He responded: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind, and love your neighbor as yourself." In the parable of the Sheep and Goats from Matthew 25:40, the King (Jesus) explains that whatever we do for the least among us, we do for Him.

The book of James states, "Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this: to visit the widows in their affliction and to keep oneself unspotted from the world." Countless examples throughout scripture emphasize that empathy and compassion are foundational to faith.

The Essence of Love

Consistently, the Christian message advocates for empathy and compassion. If we were to sum up this message succinctly, it would be God is love. What is love without empathy and compassion? In short, it does not exist—and neither can we.

In a world desperate for understanding, we must hold onto and cultivate our empathy. Standing firm in our compassion is not merely a noble act; it is essential for the moral fabric of our communities. So, let us champion empathy and compassion. In doing so, we not only affirm our shared humanity, but we also honor the very essence of our faith.