How to Understand Different Characters

Temperaments

Being Transformed by the Spirit

Is This Theory New?

Hippocrates (460-370 BC) described four types of temperaments. They are the Sanguine, the

Melancholic, the Choleric and the Phlegmatic. How important are these?

How can one explain different reactions to the same situation? How can one explain different

characteristics found in children educated in the same way? A wise man once asked: “Do you

know yourself?” How can one change what he doesn't know?

We could use this tool as a therapeutic instrument or make abuse of it if we use it to shame

and put down others. However, it should always be used with gentleness and with a

constructive mind. We should not use it as an excuse for our behavior.

Can we change our temperament? “Be ye perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect.” Yet man

cannot do this by himself. God says in Ezekiel 36, “I will change your heart of stone to a heart

of flesh.” “I can do all things through him who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13.

I. THE SANGUINE

Peter is, without any doubt, the most sanguine in the Bible and a true extrovert.

The strengths of the sanguine are as follows:

- Cordial

- Friendly

- Attracts people

- Good orator

- Opportunist

- Generous

- Compassionate

However, his weaknesses are as follows:

- Lacks willpower

- Emotionally unsteady and explosive

- Agitated

- Selfish

- Short interest span

- Indecisive

- Apprehensive

1

Impulsive

Peter is called the spokesman of the apostles. He immediately responds to the call of Jesus

(Matt. 4.20). He invites the disciples to his home (Mark 1.29), in spite of the fact that his

stepmother is bedridden. He asks Jesus if he can walk on the water (Matt 14.28-29).

He reacts before worrying about consequences. He suggests things that are not realistic (Matt.

17.1-13). He speaks when he doesn't know what to do and acts without thinking (John 18.10).

He follows his impulses (Luke 5.5).

Uncomplicated

He falls at Jesus' feet (Luke 5.1-11) and...