Topical Encyclopedia The theme of "Brother Against Brother" is a recurring motif throughout the Bible, illustrating the tragic consequences of sin, jealousy, and division within families. This theme serves as a poignant reminder of the fallen nature of humanity and the need for reconciliation and divine intervention.Cain and Abel The first and most notable instance of brotherly conflict is found in the account of Cain and Abel, the sons of Adam and Eve. In Genesis 4:8 , "Cain said to his brother Abel, 'Let us go out to the field.' And while they were in the field, Cain rose up against his brother Abel and killed him." This act of fratricide was driven by jealousy and anger, as God had favored Abel's offering over Cain's. The account of Cain and Abel sets a precedent for the destructive power of sin and the need for repentance and forgiveness. Jacob and Esau Another significant example is the relationship between Jacob and Esau, the twin sons of Isaac and Rebekah. Their account is marked by rivalry and deception, beginning even before their birth (Genesis 25:22-23). Jacob, with the help of his mother, deceives his father Isaac to receive the blessing meant for Esau (Genesis 27:18-29). This deception leads to a deep-seated enmity between the brothers, as Esau vows to kill Jacob (Genesis 27:41). Despite their eventual reconciliation (Genesis 33:4), the account of Jacob and Esau highlights the consequences of deceit and favoritism within a family. Joseph and His Brothers The narrative of Joseph and his brothers further explores the theme of brotherly conflict. Joseph, favored by his father Jacob, is envied by his brothers, who plot to kill him but ultimately sell him into slavery (Genesis 37:18-28). This act of betrayal sets off a chain of events that leads to Joseph's rise to power in Egypt. In a dramatic turn of events, Joseph forgives his brothers, saying in Genesis 50:20 , "As for you, what you intended against me for evil, God intended for good, in order to accomplish a day like this—to preserve the lives of many people." This account underscores the possibility of redemption and the sovereignty of God in turning evil intentions into good outcomes. Absalom and Amnon The conflict between Absalom and Amnon, sons of King David, is another example of brother against brother. After Amnon's violation of their sister Tamar, Absalom takes justice into his own hands by killing Amnon (2 Samuel 13:28-29). This act of vengeance leads to further strife within David's family and ultimately contributes to Absalom's rebellion against his father. The account illustrates the destructive nature of unchecked sin and the breakdown of familial relationships. New Testament Reflections In the New Testament, Jesus warns of brother turning against brother as a sign of the end times. In Matthew 10:21 , He states, "Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; children will rise against their parents and have them put to death." This prophecy highlights the deep divisions that can arise even within families due to allegiance to Christ and the gospel. The theme of "Brother Against Brother" in the Bible serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the need for reconciliation through Christ. It calls believers to seek peace, forgiveness, and unity within their families and communities, reflecting the love and grace of God. Topical Bible Verses Mark 13:12Now the brother shall betray the brother to death, and the father the son; and children shall rise up against their parents, and shall cause them to be put to death. Topicalbible.org Matthew 10:21 Library How St Francis, Having Allowed an Evil Thought to Arise in his ... An Instance of Brother Juniper's Great Power against the Devil A Letter on the Sin against the Holy Ghost to John Uytenbogard ... How it is That, if Our Brother Has any Grudge against Us, the ... The Sedition of Corah and of the Multitude against Moses, and ... On the Words of the Gospel, Matt. xvii. 21, "How Oft Shall My ... On the Words of the Gospel, Matt. xviii. 15, "If Thy Brother Sin ... The Sixth and Last Point which I am Told that He Brings against Me ... A Question Whether Anything that is Really Useful Should be ... The Sinning Brother. Resources What is a levirate marriage? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of the Parable of the Prodigal Son? | GotQuestions.org Who was Benjamin in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Brother: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Brother and Sister Relationships Brother: A Fraternal Epithet, Especially Among Christians--Instituted by Christ Brother: Brother's Widow--Law Concerning--Levirate Marriage of Brother: Joseph's, for his Brethren Brother: Reuben's Love for Joseph Brother: Signifies: A Companion Brother: Signifies: A Neighbor Brother: Signifies: A Relative, Brother: Signifies: Any Israelite Fraternity: General Scriptures Concerning Fraternity: The Nazarites, Vows of Related Terms Brother-in-law (5 Occurrences) Brother-workers (3 Occurrences) Brother-servant (2 Occurrences) Brother-prisoner (2 Occurrences) |
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