Let Us Add Brotherly Kindness to Our Faith (2 Peter 1:5-7)
Introduction:
1. In these verses 7 special characteristics ["the Christian graces"] are listed. 2. According to vs.5a, we are to add these graces to our faith with all diligence. 3. Peter continued in vs.8-11 by explaining why we must develop these graces. a. One positive blessing is explained in vs.8. b. A negative matter is revealed in vs.9. c. Another positive blessing is revealed in vs.10-11. 4. All 7 graces are important, and all are essential for spiritual growth. 5. Today we are concentrating on adding "brotherly kindness" to our faith. Discussion: I. LET US FIRST DEFINE "BROTHERLY KINDNESS"
A. Brotherly kindness: brotherly love, love that Christians have as brothers and sisters B. "Brotherly kindness" is an affectionate type of love that Christians are to have for each other. 1. In addition to being commanded, it is described in Romans 12:10 -- "Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love." 2. This kind of love is based our relationship with God (1 John 5:1). C. (Acts 2:41-47) The Jerusalem church provides a beautiful example of "brotherly kindness." II. WE ARE TAUGHT MANY TIMES IN THE SCRIPTURES TO DEVELOP "BROTHERLY KINDNESS"
A. (1 Thessalonians 4:9-10) God teaches His children to love one another, and we are to "increase more and more" in "brotherly love." B. (Hebrews 13:1) We are to "let brotherly love continue." C. (1 Peter 1:22-23) Those who have been born again are to "love one another with a pure heart fervently." III. THE SCRIPTURES CONTAIN NUMEROUS INSTRUCTIONS (POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE) THAT RELATE TO "BROTHERLY KINDNESS"
A. See: 1. Matthew 20:20-21, 24-28 2. Ephesians 4:1-3, 26-27, 29, 31-32 3. Colossians 3:8, 12-13 4. James 3:13-18 5. 1 Peter 3:8-9 B. "Brotherly kindness" will not be found when evil things exist, including the desire for preeminence, envy, anger, evil speaking, holding grudges, strife, and vengeance. C. "Brotherly kindness" will be found when good things exist, including gentleness, courtesy, compassion, mercy, meekness, patience, forbearance, humility, and forgiveness. Conclusion:
1. Let us add brotherly kindness to our faith. 2. Let us give all diligence in doing so.
