Our Brothers and Sisters in Christ

Written By Patrick Burch

OPENING THOUGHT

The gospel invites us to become children of God through the power of the cross. Amazingly, this makes us not only sons and daughters of our Father in heaven but also brothers and sisters of Jesus Christ, the Son of God (Rom. 8:15-17). It follows that if we are children of God, we are brothers and sisters of one another, too.

Siblings share a unique relationship. Sometimes they fight like cats and dogs over petty disagreements. You've heard of sibling rivalry. But when someone outside the family threatens our brother or our sister, we will defend them to the end. We say things like, “You can say bad things about me, but don't go after my sister.”

As Christians, we are called to love one another with deep, abiding love. That can be challenging. How does the Bible help us “let brotherly love continue” (Heb. 13:1)?

EXPLORING GOD’S WORD

Psalm 133

  • Psalm 133 compares unity to “precious oil on the head” and “the dew of Hermon.” What do these images teach us about unity among believers?

  • The psalm ends with “for there the Lord has commanded the blessing—life forevermore.” What connection do you see between unity and God’s blessings?

  • What are some obstacles that prevent believers from living in unity?

  • How can we practically foster unity in our church?

  • What role does forgiveness play in maintaining love and unity among believers?

James 2:1-17

  • Why do you think James warns against showing favoritism in verses 1-4? How does favoritism contradict God’s love?

  • How does James use the rich and poor to illustrate the problem of partiality? How might this apply in today’s church?

  • James calls loving your neighbor the “royal law” (v. 8). How does this connect with Jesus’ teachings in Matthew 22:36-40?

  • What are some subtle ways we might show favoritism in our churches or friendships?

  • What are practical ways we can ensure everyone in our congregation feels loved and valued?

  • In verses 14-17, James challenges believers to have a faith that produces action. How does genuine love for others require more than words?

1 John 2:9-11

  • How would you define walking in the light versus walking in darkness in the context of this passage? (cf. 1 John 1:7).

  • What is John’s test for knowing whether we abide in God’s light?

  • What are some attitudes or actions that might indicate hidden resentment or hatred toward others?

  • How can we guard our hearts against hatred or bitterness, especially when we’ve been hurt?

1 John 3:16-18

  • Verse 16 says, “Jesus Christ laid down his life for us.” Why is Jesus’ sacrifice the ultimate example of love?

  • In verse 17, John presents a scenario where someone has material possessions but doesn’t help a brother or sister in need. Why is this a test of genuine love?

  • What do you think it means to love “not with words or speech but with actions and in truth” (v. 18)?

Hebrews 10:23-25

  • In verse 25, believers are warned not to neglect meeting together. Why is gathering with other Christians so important for spiritual growth?

  • What does it mean to “encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near”? How does anticipation of Christ’s return shape our community life?

  • Ashville Road’s goals this year are expressed in the term “cultivate.” How can we be intentional about fulfilling these goals, “stirring up” love and good works?

  • What are some challenges that keep people from regularly gathering with other believers? How can we overcome them?

  • How does Christian encouragement differ from general positivity or motivational speech?

Patrick Burch
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