First Peter 3:8-9
Relating To One Another In Brotherly Fashion
I. Introduction:
A. When asked what the great commandment was in the law, Jesus answered… (Matthew 22:34-40).
- Love thy neighbor was a focus on their brethren under the Law of Moses (Leviticus 19:18).
- Yet, Jesus broadened that in His teaching (Luke 10:25-37).
- This commandment is an indicator of passing from death to life (I John 3:14-18).
- Think about the significance of brotherly love in relation to one’s love for our Heavenly Father (I John 4:20-21).
II. Body: I Peter 3:8-9
A. Likemindedness among the saints (I Corinthians 1:10).
- Toward one another (Romans 12:16) and in general (Philippians 2:2).
- Through the standard (Philippians 3:16; cf. II Timothy 3:15-17).
- Having the mindset as we see in Christ (Philippians 2:3-8 and I Peter 4:1-2).
- Our differences only being in areas of authorized liberties that are not generating problems (Romans 14:1-3).
- In times of rejoicing or sorrow (Romans 12:15 and I Corinthians 12:26).
- Example: Philippians 2:25-3:1.
- Who are my brethren (Mark 3:31-35)?
- Not just situationally or on certain occasions (Hebrews 13:1).
- Consider dealing with brethren in times of personal conflict (Matthew 18:1-35).
- This does not mean we can forgive where there is not repentance (Luke 17:3-4).
- Thinking about what we see in God (Titus 3:4).
- Consider the contrast of Gaius and Diotrephes (III John 1:1-10).
- Vengeance does not belong to us (Hebrews 10:30-31).
- We are called to “bless” and curse not (Romans 12:14; 12:17-21).
- Think about what Paul wrote to Timothy especially from the standpoint of an evangelist that is sure to be mistreated (I Timothy 2:1-8).
III. Conclusion: Our Next Study; I Peter 3:10-12