Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Brotherly Kindness
(II Peter 1:6-8)
Genuine Christian faith demonstrates itself practically. Some avoid Christianity because they feel doctrine is too theoretical. The Bible, however, never presents theory without application. Faith, though an esoteric concept for some, always produces works, demonstrating the practicality of Biblical belief. In fact, professed faith that produces no verifiable, practical works is not the living faith of Christianity. Such so-called faith is as dead as any atheistic philosophy could ever be (James 2:20). In short, if your professed belief doesn’t produce something of works, you had better check up on the genuineness of your belief.
Peter states that, among other virtues, we should add “brotherly kindness” to our faith. The term “brotherly kindness” comes from a Greek term meaning “brotherly love.” It is the kind of love one extends to friends, and close associations. While not so intimate as agape, it encourages warm fraternity—a family feeling toward our brothers and sisters in Christ.
There’s something wrong with a man who professes Christianity but doesn’t like fellow Christians. Jesus said, “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another” (John 13:35). Brotherly kindness, therefore, is a mark of genuine faith and discipleship. Without it, professed faith becomes mere theory. And theory, by itself, is of no practical benefit to anyone. In James’ words, that kind of faith is “dead.”
Is “brotherly kindness” difficult? It shouldn’t be. A kindly word, friendly handshake, encouraging note, helpful hand—these are the things of which brotherly kindness is made.
