Biblical Love of the Brethren

1 John 3:14

We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.

First of all, what is a brother? A true biblical brother is one that is born again and obeying all known truth of God's Word. 

1 John 1:7

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

This verse is clear if we are walking in the light we can have fellowship with one another. 

2 Thessalonians 3:14 

And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed.

This is a strong verse and right to the point. Any man who claims Christ but does not obey the Word we cannot keep company with that man. Why do you think this is? 

1 Corinthians 15:33 

Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good 

manners.

I had to part ways with old friends when I truly repented. When you find other christians and test them to Gods Word if they are in line with the scriptures and are willing to obey the Word as their being taught you can have fellowship. If we agree to obey the Word we can help one another spiritually. Now if I truly love my brother as I should I will tell him the truth. We should be able to take reproof when necessary. 

2 Timothy 3:16 

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for 

correction, for instruction in righteousness. 

Isn't that what we all need who are striving for the truth of God's word. 

Proverbs 12:1 

Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof is brutish.

Can two walk together, except they be agreed?

As we can see to truly love the brethren we must be right with God ourselves and test others who name the name of Christ before we join with them. This is why I had to depart from a Sunday religous system with a one man ruling bishop, because they teach a false gospel and overstepped their authority by coming out with an unbiblical contract. I also had to depart from one my best friend who I love and hope he will seek to live for Christ.  I have learned to test them to the Word. 

1 John 4:1-4 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they be of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

I hope this encourages anyone reading this to know how to love the brethren and to test those who are claiming Christ for the glory of God.