Brotherly love, often referred to as "philadelphia" in the original Greek, is a central theme in Christian theology and ethics, emphasizing the love and affection that believers are to have for one another. This concept is deeply rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ and the apostolic writings, serving as a hallmark of Christian community and witness.

Biblical Foundation

The New Testament provides a robust framework for understanding brotherly love. Jesus Himself set the standard for this love, commanding His disciples 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 everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another." This commandment underscores the sacrificial and unconditional nature of the love that believers are to exhibit.

The Apostle Paul further elaborates on this theme in his epistles. In Romans 12:10 , he exhorts, "Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Outdo yourselves in honoring one another." Here, Paul emphasizes devotion and honor as key components of brotherly love, suggesting a selfless commitment to the well-being of others within the Christian community.

Characteristics of Brotherly Love

Brotherly love is characterized by several key attributes:

1. Selflessness: True brotherly love seeks the good of others above one's own interests. Philippians 2:3-4 instructs, "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."

2. Forgiveness: A forgiving spirit is essential to maintaining brotherly love. Ephesians 4:32 encourages believers to "be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you."

3. Unity: Brotherly love fosters unity within the body of Christ. Colossians 3:14 states, "And over all these virtues put on love, which is the bond of perfect unity." Love acts as the glue that holds the community together, transcending differences and promoting harmony.

4. Service: Love is demonstrated through acts of service. Galatians 5:13 reminds believers, "For you, brothers, were called to freedom; but do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh. Rather, serve one another in love."

Practical Expressions

The early church provides a model for the practical expression of brotherly love. Acts 2:44-45 describes how "all the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they shared with anyone who was in need." This communal lifestyle reflects the depth of their commitment to one another, prioritizing the needs of the community over individual wealth.

Moreover, brotherly love extends beyond the immediate Christian community to include hospitality and care for strangers. Hebrews 13:1-2 advises, "Continue in brotherly love. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it."

Challenges and Encouragement

While brotherly love is a divine mandate, it is not without challenges. Human nature, with its propensity for selfishness and division, often hinders the full expression of this love. The New Testament writers frequently encourage believers to persevere in love despite these challenges. 1 Peter 4:8 urges, "Above all, love one another deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins."

The Apostle John provides a sobering reminder of the importance of brotherly love in 1 John 4:20-21 : "If anyone says, 'I love God,' but hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. And we have this commandment from Him: Whoever loves God must love his brother as well."

In summary, brotherly love is a defining characteristic of the Christian faith, rooted in the teachings of Christ and the apostles. It calls for selflessness, forgiveness, unity, and service, and is to be expressed both within the church and towards the broader community.