“But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves” (James 1:22).
“Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge, and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness, and in your godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 1:5-8).
“Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor” (Romans 12:10). The ESV says “outdo one another in showing honor.”
“Now as to the love of the brethren, you have no need for anyone to write to you, for you yourselves are taught by God to love one another” (1 Thessalonians 4:9).
The church of Christ is a very special thing, bought with the blood of Christ and established by him, where love of our brothers and sisters abounds. If it does not, it is wrong. The church is truly a place where male and female, old and young, rich and poor, Christians of all nationalities are one (Gal. 3:28). We love those who have put on Christ because: A) It comes naturally. Christians are God’s family and we are brothers and sisters. B) It is commanded, so we love our brethren whether we feel like it or not.
Practice brotherly love, do brotherly love. How? Be a Christian. Take food to shut-ins, send a note, make a call, rake some leaves, take someone to their doctor appointment, mow someone’s grass, agree to teach a class, help those working in any of our ministries. Serve others and help those who already do that. Take a real interest in your brothers and sisters around you. Show love and compassion. Be forgiving.
The early Christians were known for their love…
“By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35).
For the elders, with love and prayers for you all.
Gary Woodall