All Brethren

As potential members of God’s Spiritual family, those who are now baptized and have the gift of God’s Holy Spirit are brethren. Jesus Christ calls us brethren, and He shows that loving one another as He commands is a proof of this new relationship–a relationship that transcends even our physical families. The Word of God illustrates both good and bad brotherly relationships: Cain and Abel; Joseph and his brothers; the two brothers in the parable of the lost son; Jonathan and David as friends (showing selfless love); Jesus Christ and us; Us (that is, Christians); and, our future brethren who are yet to be converted and brought into the family of God.