|
Faith’s Extension
Brotherly Kindness and Love
The last two attributes of the true Christian character cannot be separated - brotherly kindness and love. They too must be added to your faith in abundance.
Brotherly kindness (philathelphia) - the love and consideration between brothers or sisters; the appreciation offered, and value placed on one another (in a special sense, all being children of the same Heavenly Father). In the Old Testament, Israelites were taught not to hate their brothers: “You shall not hate your bother in your heart... but you shall love your neighbour as yourself” [Leviticus 19:17,18]. This emphasis is continued and is made even more positive by Jesus Himself. In the New Testament, believers are exhorted to “be tenderly affectionate to one another with brotherly love” [Romans. 12:10]; “to love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous” [1 Peter 3:8].
As a Christian “brotherly kindness” should be your hallmark or calling card [John 13:35]. An expression of love is always the manifestation of spiritual maturity. The more you grow in Christ, the more kindness and love you will exhibit. But growing to maturity is a conscious decision - an act of your will. The Bible says, “Let brotherly love continue,” which implies that you must make an effort for this to happen. Always be decisive concerning love and regard for others.
Brotherly love [philadelphia] describes the love you as believers should have for one another. Philo is human ‘love’; adelphia is ‘brothers’, and is often used in the context of a community made up of people united by a common interest or common calling. Have you noticed how difficult it is to connect with people whose value system is different to yours? The apostle Paul says this is being “unequally yoked” (2 Corinthians 6:14).
Brotherly love identifies us to those around us as Christ’s disciples: (followers of Christ) “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you love [‘agape’] one another” [John 13:35]. Loving one another will lead us to a sincere ‘love’ for all of mankind. As mentioned earlier, this is not primarily a matter of emotions but of the human will. It is not a mere sentimental exhilaration to be experienced, but a commandment to obey! Agape - the God kind of love - is supernatural and not of human source. An unbeliever cannot love as Jesus commanded because he has not had divine life imparted into his spirit. It takes divine life to love one’s enemies.
“Agape’ love, always manifests itself in giving. For instance, “God so loved the world, that He gave...” [John 3:16]. “Christ also loved the church and gave...” [Ephesians 5:25]. You can show your love by giving your time, your talents, your hospitality, and your life for others. But remember, this kind of love is never selfish, it is totally unconditional. And this special kind of love will only be known by the actions it prompts. ‘Agape’ is seen - it’s conspicuous!
|
Chris Demetriou, 25/03/2007 |
|
| |
