Topical Bible: Brother: A Fraternal Epithet, Especially Among Christians--Instituted by Christ

◄ Brother: A Fraternal Epithet, Especially Among Christians--Instituted by Christ ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The term "brother" holds significant theological and relational weight within the Christian tradition, serving as a fraternal epithet that underscores the spiritual kinship among believers. This concept is deeply rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ and the early Christian community, reflecting a profound sense of unity and mutual responsibility.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the term "brother" (Hebrew: אָח, 'ach) primarily denotes a biological relationship, as seen in the accounts of Cain and Abel (Genesis 4:2) and Jacob and Esau (Genesis 25:24-26). However, it also extends to a broader kinship within the Israelite community, emphasizing solidarity and mutual care. For instance, Leviticus 19:17 commands, "You must not harbor hatred against your brother in your heart."

New Testament Transformation

The New Testament, particularly through the teachings of Jesus, expands the concept of brotherhood beyond biological ties to encompass all who follow Christ. In Matthew 12:50, Jesus states, "For whoever does the will of My Father in heaven is My brother and sister and mother." This redefinition establishes a spiritual family bound by faith and obedience to God.

The Teachings of Jesus

Jesus' institution of brotherhood among His followers is a central theme in His ministry. In the Sermon on the Mount, He emphasizes reconciliation and love among brethren, saying, "Therefore if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift" (Matthew 5:23-24).

The Early Church

The early Christian community embraced this fraternal ethos, as evidenced in the Acts of the Apostles and the Epistles. The believers are frequently referred to as "brothers" (Greek: ἀδελφοί, adelphoi), highlighting their shared faith and mission. Acts 2:44-45 describes the early church's communal life: "All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they shared with anyone who was in need."

Pauline Epistles

The Apostle Paul frequently uses the term "brother" to address fellow Christians, reinforcing the idea of spiritual kinship. In Romans 12:10, he exhorts, "Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Outdo yourselves in honoring one another." This call to brotherly love is a recurring theme in his letters, urging believers to support, encourage, and hold each other accountable.

Theological Implications

The fraternal language in the New Testament underscores the transformative power of the Gospel, which creates a new family in Christ. This spiritual brotherhood transcends ethnic, social, and cultural barriers, uniting believers in a common identity and purpose. As Galatians 3:28 affirms, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus."

Practical Applications

The concept of brotherhood among Christians carries practical implications for how believers interact with one another. It calls for a commitment to love, forgiveness, and service, reflecting the character of Christ. James 2:15-16 challenges believers to demonstrate their faith through action: "Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you tells him, 'Go in peace; stay warm and well fed,' but does not provide for his physical needs, what good is that?"

In summary, the term "brother" in the Christian context is a powerful expression of the unity and love that define the body of Christ. It is a reminder of the spiritual family that believers are called to nurture and cherish, following the example set by Jesus Himself.

Nave's Topical Index

Matthew 12:50
For whoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.
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Matthew 25:40
And the King shall answer and say to them, Truly I say to you, Inasmuch as you have done it to one of the least of these my brothers, you have done it to me.
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Hebrews 2:11,12 .Used by disciples
For both he that sanctifies and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brothers,
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