1 Peter 1:22-23; 2:17
Introduction:
1. The family metaphors for the church focus attention on the closeness of our bond.
2. Psalm 133 sets forth God’s delight in harmony among brethren in vivid poetry.
3. If we are to please the Lord, we must love the brotherhood and guard it from harm.
Discussion:
I. Brotherhood Defined
A. “Properly, the feeling of brotherliness; the Christian fraternity” (Strong)
B. “Brotherly kindness; a family of brothers.” (Thayer)
C. “The whole body of persons engaged in a business or profession; fellowship, alliance.” (Webster)
D. Brotherhood implies common purpose and character.
E. Fraternity= “persons of the same class, profession, character, or tastes; a group associated or formally organized for a common purpose, interest, or pleasure.” (Webster)
II. Brotherhood Founded
A. Brotherhood implies common parentage.
B. Christianity is a brotherhood adopted into the household of God (John 1:12; Galatians 3:26; 4:6-7).
C. God demands His children love one another as He does (1 Peter 1:22-23; 2:17; 4:8; 1 John 3:16).
III. Brotherhood Enacted
A. The pursuit of holiness is the primary aim of this brotherhood (Romans 8:14-17; 2 Corinthians 6:17-18; 1 Peter 1:14-16; 1 John 3:1-2).
B. So many of His commandments center in love and proper treatment of one another.
C. 1 Peter 4:8-11 is a framework for brotherhood in action.
D. Fervent love is enshrined in this passage.
E. Fervent= “unceasing activity, usually involving a degree of intensity” (Louw-Nida)
F. Love “…covers a multitude of sins” (cf. 1 Corinthians 13:5- thinks no evil=to keep inventory)
G. Love is hospitable (cf. Romans 12:10-13; 1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:8; Hebrews 13:16).
H. Hospitable= “offering a pleasant or sustaining environment” (Webster)
I. Brotherhood uses whatever gifts God has granted in service to one another for the common good (vv. 10-11; cf. 1 Corinthians 12:4-7).
Conclusion:
1. So often “love” is used in a watered down sense, little more than some sort of squishy feelings.
2. Biblical love is so much more, demanding actions that promote the absolute good of the object of love.
3. May we determine in our hearts to love the brotherhood better with each passing day.