WHO IS MY BROTHER? – A MAJOR ERROR
We learn from the Gospels how to deal with the three types of people, our brethren, others in general, and with our enemies. There are special rules for each found in the Gospel. But to deal with them we have to understand how to identify who they are. “Our brethren” refers to those who believe correctly and are co-members of the Body of Christ – the Church. “Others in general” refers to those who are neither our brethren nor our enemies. Our enemies are those who are inimically disposed toward us. We must avoid confusion of the Gospel teaching as it will result in misapplication of its instructions. Listed are many passages which confirm the meaning of brethren as being the firm believers and members of the One Church of Christ.
Brethren are those who are of one mind and one Body belonging to the Body of Christ
Others in general refer to those who are neither brothers nor enemies and toward them we “do unto others as you would have them do to you.
Enemies are those inimical toward us and to those we love as our enemies.
“Who is my brother?”
Christ first raises then answers the question: “Who is my brother?” saying, that it is those who hear the Gospel and are faithful members of the Church, and not every Tom, Dick and Harry.
Who is my brother?”
“As He talked to the people, His mother and His brethren stood outside, desiring to speak with Him. Then one said to Him, Behold, your mother and brethren are standing outside desiring to speak with you. But He answered and said unto him that told him, Who is my mother, and who are my brethren? And He stretched forth His hand toward His disciples, and said, behold my mother and my brethren! For whoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother” (Mat.12:46-50, (Mar 3:34, Luke 8:20)
