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◄ Love to Man: should be Connected With Brotherly Kindness►

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Topical Encyclopedia

Definition and Context

Love to man, often referred to as "philanthropy" in a broader sense, is a fundamental principle in Christian ethics, deeply rooted in the teachings of the Bible. It is the expression of genuine care, compassion, and concern for the well-being of others. This love is not merely an emotion but a deliberate choice to act in the best interest of others, reflecting the love of God. In the Christian context, love to man is intrinsically connected with brotherly kindness, which is the affectionate regard and goodwill towards fellow believers and humanity at large.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible provides numerous exhortations and examples of love to man, emphasizing its importance as a reflection of one's faith and relationship with God. In2 Peter 1:7, believers are encouraged to add "brotherly kindness with love" to their faith, indicating that love is the culmination of a virtuous life. The Apostle Paul, in his epistle to the Romans, writes, "Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Outdo yourselves in honoring one another" (Romans 12:10). This verse underscores the call to prioritize others and to cultivate a community marked by mutual respect and honor.

The Teachings of Jesus

Jesus Christ, the ultimate exemplar of love, taught extensively about love to man. In the Gospel of John, He commands His disciples, "This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you" (John 15:12). This commandment elevates love to man as a defining characteristic of His followers. Furthermore, in the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), Jesus illustrates that love transcends social, ethnic, and religious boundaries, calling His followers to show mercy and kindness to all, regardless of their background.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in enabling believers to love others genuinely. InGalatians 5:22, love is listed as the first fruit of the Spirit, indicating that it is a natural outgrowth of a life led by the Spirit. The indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit empowers Christians to overcome selfish tendencies and to exhibit love and kindness towards others, even in challenging circumstances.

Practical Expressions

Love to man is manifested in various practical ways, including acts of service, hospitality, forgiveness, and generosity. The early church exemplified this love through communal living and sharing resources, as seen inActs 2:44-45: "All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they shared with anyone who was in need" . This radical expression of love and brotherly kindness served as a powerful testimony to the transformative power of the Gospel.

Challenges and Encouragement

While love to man is a noble pursuit, it is not without challenges. Human nature, marred by sin, often gravitates towards selfishness and indifference. However, believers are encouraged to persevere in love, drawing strength from their relationship with Christ.Hebrews 10:24 exhorts, "And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds" . This encouragement highlights the communal aspect of the Christian faith, where believers support and inspire each other to live out the love of Christ in tangible ways.

Conclusion

The call to love others is a central tenet of the Christian faith, deeply intertwined with the concept of brotherly kindness. It is a reflection of God's love for humanity and a testament to the transformative power of the Gospel. Through the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the example of Jesus Christ, believers are equipped to demonstrate this love in their daily lives, impacting the world around them for the glory of God.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Romans 12:10
Be kindly affectionate one to another with brotherly love; in honor preferring one another;
Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Peter 1:7
And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Satan's Devices
... And whyshould man put them asunder... if you see any who appear (so far asman can
judge... already partakers of their hope, already "made perfect inlove;" far from...

Perseverance of the Saints Proved.
... Jesus Christ: 8. Whom having not seen yelove; in whom... that Christ has expressly
asserted that noman can or... to Christ, and drawn to him, Christshould lose none...

Spiritual Growth
... character which are Christ-like, such aslove, forgiveness of... I knew aman who wanted
to go to China... the various kinds of Nature's growth, Ishould point out...

Obedience to God the Way to Faith in Christ.
... conscience suggests, Christ has sanctioned and explained; tolove God and... then in
His Holy Word; and, lest weshould be in... for this is the whole duty ofman[1...

1 Corinthians xi. 26
... good resolutions made at Christ's table, whyshould we think... inman but in Christ,
and in hislove to us... neither do they, properly speaking, rest inman as such...

The General Conference of 1836
... as a Church, and so intimatelyconnected with our... hearts of Christian citizens together
inlove andbrotherly... Everyman should be presumed to be innocent until...

Thanksgiving after Chastisement.
... this virtue finds a place only inman's social condition... And whyshould the chastisement
that has come upon us... even amidst sorrow and tears to showlove and do...

An Advance in the Exhortation.
... trembling, lest he also, like others before him,should fall down... be the coming of
the Son ofman."[221... has already spoken of their work and thelove which they...

Faustus is Willing to Admit that Christ May have Said that He came...
... As the name Manes seemed to beconnected with the Greek... way of getting the bill written,
theman should be obliged... away, it is the husband's duty tolove her....

Homilies on the Gospel of John.
... Children, need spiritual instruction, [211]10;should receive right impressions,
[212]ib... of His Power in the Garden, [506]279; Hislove forman, [507]280...