Topical Encyclopedia Fraternity, in the context of biblical teaching, refers to the brotherhood and fellowship among believers, emphasizing unity, love, and mutual support within the body of Christ. The Scriptures provide numerous insights into the nature and importance of fraternity among Christians, highlighting the spiritual and practical aspects of living in harmony with one another.Unity in the Body of Christ The Apostle Paul frequently addresses the concept of unity and fraternity among believers. In Ephesians 4:3-6 , he urges the church to "make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." This passage underscores the theological foundation for fraternity, rooted in the oneness of God and the shared faith of believers. Love as the Bond of Fraternity Love is the central tenet of Christian fraternity. Jesus Himself commands His followers in John 13:34-35 , "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 love is not merely an emotion but an active commitment to the well-being of others, serving as the defining mark of Christian community. Mutual Support and Encouragement The early church exemplified fraternity through mutual support and encouragement. Acts 2:44-47 describes the believers as being "together and having everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they shared with anyone who was in need. With one accord they continued to meet daily in the temple courts and to break bread from house to house, sharing their meals with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people." This passage illustrates the practical outworking of fraternity, where believers support one another materially and spiritually. Bearing One Another's Burdens Galatians 6:2 instructs believers to "Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." This directive highlights the responsibility of Christians to support each other in times of difficulty, reflecting the sacrificial love of Christ. Fraternity involves sharing in both joys and sorrows, fostering a community where individuals are not left to face challenges alone. Avoiding Division and Strife The Scriptures also warn against behaviors that disrupt fraternity. In 1 Corinthians 1:10 , Paul appeals to the church, "I urge you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree together, so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be united in mind and conviction." Discord and division are antithetical to the spirit of fraternity, and believers are called to resolve conflicts and maintain unity. The Role of Humility and Service Philippians 2:3-4 emphasizes the importance of humility in fostering fraternity: "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others." Humility and service are essential virtues that promote a spirit of fraternity, encouraging believers to prioritize the needs of others above their own. Conclusion The biblical concept of fraternity is deeply rooted in the teachings of Scripture, calling believers to live in unity, love, and mutual support. Through the example of Christ and the instructions of the apostles, Christians are encouraged to cultivate a community that reflects the love and unity of the triune God. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 13:8And Abram said to Lot, Let there be no strife, I pray you, between me and you, and between my herdsmen and your herdsmen; for we be brothers. Nave's Topical Index Deuteronomy 15:7-15 Psalm 22:22 Psalm 133:1-3 Zechariah 11:14 Malachi 2:10 Matthew 5:22-24 Matthew 18:15-18,21,22,35 Matthew 23:8 Matthew 25:40 John 13:34 John 15:12 John 20:17 Romans 12:10 1 Corinthians 6:1-8 1 Corinthians 8:1-13 Galatians 6:1,2 1 Thessalonians 4:9 2 Thessalonians 3:14,15 Hebrews 13:1 1 Peter 1:22 1 Peter 2:17 1 Peter 3:8 2 Peter 1:5,7 1 John 2:9-11 1 John 3:17 Library The General Conference of 1836 Article xxvii (xiii): of Monastic Vows. The Middle Colonies: the Jerseys, Delaware, and Pennsylvania --The ... The Deputation from Jerusalem - the Three Sects of the Pharisees ... The Historical Situation Conflicts of the Church with Public Wrongs. The Great Assize Twenty-Seven Articles Respecting the Reformation of the Christian ... The Life and Passion of Cyprian, Bishop and Martyr. The Evolution of Early Congregationalism the Stone which the ... Resources Is Jesus our brother? | GotQuestions.orgHow can a friend stick closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:24)? | GotQuestions.org Who was James, the brother of Jesus, 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 |
    |