Unkindness

Unsympathetic or cruel behaviour. It is contrary to God's character and is condemned in Scripture.

Unkindness condemned

In general terms

Proverbs 11:17 See also Proverbs 17:5, Proverbs 25:20; Ephesians 4:31–32

A kind man benefits himself, but a cruel man brings trouble on himself.

Treatment of enemies

Matthew 5:43–44 See also Exodus 23:4–5; Proverbs 25:21; Luke 6:27–28, Luke 6:35; Romans 12:14

You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor’ and ‘Hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,

Treatment of the poor

Proverbs 14:31; 1 John 3:17 See also Deuteronomy 15:7, Deuteronomy 24:14; Proverbs 21:13; Isaiah 3:15, Isaiah 10:1–2; Ezekiel 22:29; Zechariah 7:10

Whoever oppresses the poor taunts their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors Him.

If anyone with earthly possessions sees his brother in need, but withholds his compassion from him, how can the love of God abide in him?

Treatment of animals

Proverbs 12:10 See also Leviticus 22:28; Deuteronomy 22:6, Deuteronomy 25:4; Luke 13:15, Luke 14:5

A righteous man regards the life of his animal, but the tender mercies of the wicked are only cruelty.

Inhospitality condemned

1 Peter 4:9 See also Deuteronomy 23:4; Matthew 25:41–43; Luke 9:52–53; Hebrews 13:2; 3 John 1:10

Show hospitality to one another without complaining.

Some examples of unkindness

1 Samuel 11:2; 2 Samuel 12:4; 2 Kings 25:7; Nehemiah 5:5–6; Job 24:2–12; Psalm 35:15, Psalm 69:20–21, Psalm 109:16; Ezekiel 34:4; Amos 1:11, Amos 5:11; James 2:15–16

God's kindness as a model for believers

Ruth 2:20; Ezra 9:9; Isaiah 63:7; Acts 14:17; Romans 2:4, Romans 11:22; Ephesians 2:7