Introduction

Brotherly love, or "philadelphia" in Greek, is a central tenet of Christian teaching, emphasizing the importance of love and unity among believers. This concept is deeply rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ and the apostles, serving as a hallmark of genuine Christian faith and community. The New Testament provides numerous exhortations and examples that encourage believers to persist in this love, reflecting the love of Christ in their relationships with one another.

Biblical Foundation

The call to brotherly love is grounded in the teachings of Jesus, who commanded His disciples to love one another as He loved them. In John 13:34-35 , Jesus states, "A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you also must love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another." This commandment underscores the importance of love as a distinguishing mark of Christian discipleship.

The Apostle Paul further emphasizes this in his epistles. In Romans 12:10 , he writes, "Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Outdo yourselves in honoring one another." Here, Paul encourages believers to prioritize love and honor in their interactions, fostering a community that reflects the love of Christ.

Exhortations to Persevere in Love

The New Testament contains several exhortations urging believers to continue in brotherly love. The author of Hebrews writes in Hebrews 13:1 , "Continue in brotherly love." This simple yet profound directive serves as a reminder of the ongoing nature of this love, which should be a constant and active part of the believer's life.

Peter also addresses this in 1 Peter 1:22 , stating, "Since you have purified your souls by obedience to the truth, so that you have a genuine love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from a pure heart." This passage highlights the transformative power of obedience to the truth, resulting in a sincere and fervent love for fellow believers.

Practical Expressions of Brotherly Love

Brotherly love is not merely an abstract concept but is meant to be expressed in tangible ways. Acts of kindness, hospitality, and support are practical manifestations of this love. In 1 John 3:18 , John exhorts, "Little children, let us love not in word and speech, but in action and truth." This call to action challenges believers to demonstrate their love through deeds, reflecting the sacrificial love of Christ.

The early church provides a model for such expressions of love. In Acts 2:44-47 , the believers are described as having "all things in common" and selling their possessions to meet the needs of others. This communal lifestyle exemplifies the depth of their commitment to brotherly love and mutual care.

Challenges and Encouragements

While the call to brotherly love is clear, believers may face challenges in maintaining this love amidst differences and conflicts. The New Testament acknowledges these difficulties and offers encouragement to persevere. In Colossians 3:13-14 , Paul advises, "Bear with one another and forgive any complaint you may have against someone else. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which is the bond of perfect unity."

This passage highlights the importance of forgiveness and patience as essential components of brotherly love. By emulating Christ's forgiveness, believers can overcome obstacles and maintain unity within the body of Christ.

Conclusion

The encouragement to continue in brotherly love is a vital aspect of Christian life, reflecting the love of Christ and fostering unity among believers. Through scriptural exhortations and practical expressions, the New Testament provides a comprehensive guide for living out this love in community.