Mercy

What is the biblical meaning of mercy?

In the Bible, mercy is used in reference to giving forgiveness or withholding punishment. The scripture particularly speaks of God's forgiveness, as well as the forgiveness of Jesus Christ. The word “mercy” is also popular in a legal context, such as when a judge shows lenience upon sentencing.

What does God say about mercy?

Matthew 5:7 - “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy." 

Hebrews 4:16 - Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. 

Matthew 9:13 - Go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.'

What does Jesus teach about mercy?

He forgave the wicked, the vulgar, and those who sought to hurt and to do Him harm.” The scriptures show that mercifulness is one of the Savior's supernal qualities. Jesus taught, “Blessed are the merciful” (Matthew 5:7), and “Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful” (Luke 6:36).

What is the definition of mercy?

Mercy is the compassionate treatment of those in distress, especially when it is within one’s power to punish or harm them.

The word “mercy” derives from the medieval Latin merced or merces, which means "price paid." It has the connotation of forgiveness, benevolence and kindness. Mercy is often used in a religious context of giving alms, caring for the sick or the poor.

Mercy appears in the Bible as it relates to forgiveness or withholding punishment. For example, God the Father showed mercy on us when he sacrificed his son, Christ Jesus, on the Cross to pay the price for our sins. 

"Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions." — Psalm 51:1, NIV

But the Bible also defines mercy beyond forgiveness and withholding punishment. God shows his mercy for those who are suffering through healing, comfort, the alleviation of suffering and caring about those in distress. He acts from compassion and acts with mercy.

In Matthew 17:15, a man approaches Jesus and kneels before Him saying, "Lord, have mercy on my son. … He has seizures and is suffering greatly. He often falls into the fire or into the water."

Jesus' response, to heal the man's son, is one of mercy. Jesus’ compassion prompts him to act and he mercifully loves, heals and restores.

Psalms 86:5 - For You, Lord, are good and ready to forgive, and abundant in mercy to all those who call upon You.

Hebrews 4:16 - Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

Matthew 5:7 - “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy." 

Matthew 9:13 - Go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.'

Matthew 5:7 - “Blessed are the merciful”

Luke 6:36 - “Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful” 

Psalm 51:1 - "Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions." 

Matthew 17:15 - a man approaches Jesus and kneels before Him saying, "Lord, have mercy on my son. … He has seizures and is suffering greatly. He often falls into the fire or into the water."