The Marks of a Christian - Love One Another with Brotherly Affection

Is Jesus the Lord of your life? Is your entire life under the control of the Holy Spirit? Are you living your life in a way that is pleasing to God?   Let’s continue to look closely at the outward marks of a Christian, which reflect an inward life connected to Jesus. By doing so, we’ll ensure we are faithfully following Jesus in all areas of our life. Another mark of a Christian is this: “Love one another with brotherly affection” (Romans 12:10a).                       A gathered body of believers should “feel” like a large family. A family in which God is our Father, the church is our mother, and Jesus is our big brother, protecting us from harm.  Therefore, our attitude toward fellow believers in our church – the family of God – should reflect the same love, care, and tenderness that we would show to our siblings - whom we love - in our nuclear family.  It’s an instinctual, familial love. You share the same gene pool. The same last name and identity. Love usually isn’t forced. That’s why coming together in regular corporate worship is important. Because it’s difficult to deeply love someone with whom you rarely spend time - especially a family member.  Do you love your church family with brotherly affection? Are you committed to gathering together regularly – whether it’s online or in-person? Loving other Christians is an important mark of genuine followers of Jesus.