The Blessing of Brethren (1)

Paul was thankful for his brethren Romans 1:8 1 Corinthians 1:4 Philippians 1:3 1 Thessalonians 1:2 2 Timothy 1:3 Philemon 4 Thankful because he realized the blessing brethren are

We are likeminded Philippians 2:1-2 Romans 12:16, 15:5 Philippians 2:20 A blessing because we can relate to each other – same worldview and mindset Same standard as our foundation

We are a source of encouragement and comfort We all become discouraged at times. Encourage, “to call to one’s side” 1 Thessalonians 5:11, 14 Hebrews 12:12 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

We are a source of encouragement and comfort Paul was often encouraged by brethren (Philippians 2:19) And he sought to encourage them- Colossians 2:2, 1 Thessalonians 3:2 Romans 1:11-12

We find inspiration Inspiration often used of God’s word (2 Tim. 3:16) We refer to one moved or stirred up to act productively What example is about – 1 Timothy 4:12-16 Matthew 5:16 Hebrews 10:24 Romans 11:14

We find inspiration Paul used commitment of Corinthians to stir others us - 2 Corinthians 9:2 Peter wrote to stir up his brethren 2 Peter 1:13, 3:1 We all know of examples whose faith we seek to follow (cf. Hebrews 13:7) Philippians 1:12-14

We find correction Sometimes we need brethren to correct us The world lets you do what you want to do. Not good! Galatians 6:1-2 James 5:19-20 1 Thessalonians 5:14

We find correction Even God seeks to correct us – Hebrews 12:5-12 Go to your brother – Matthew 18:15-17 Even “church discipline” is to win souls – 1 Corinthians 5:4-7 See the brother who comes to you as a blessing

We find help with needs We all need help from time to time. Some spiritual and some physical Can we trust sources of help in this world? Brethren a genuine source of help - cf. Acts 4:32-37, 11:27-30, etc. Romans 12:10-15 Galatians 6:2, bear one another’s burdens

We find help with needs How we help demonstrates our faith and love – James 2:14-17 Galatians 6:10, as we have opportunity… BUT, don’t take undue advantage of your brethren (Galatians 5:13). Always be grateful for what they do!

We need each other! Let us resolve to be there for our brothers and sisters in Christ