Early Christian writer Tertullian wrote about Christians, their self-sacrificing love, and caring and sharing, as follows: ‘how they love one another?’ In the increasingly hostile world of persecution, hatred, and animosity, churches are havens of peace.
Absence of love: In the world, the absence of love creates many sins. Cain could not love his brother; he envied him and murdered him. (Genesis 4:8) There could be strife and quarrels. (James 4:1) There could be parties or groups that oppose one another. (I Corinthians 1:10-13)
Godly trait of love: Those who are in Christ are no longer blind. (II Corinthians 4:4) They do not dwell in spiritual darkness. Instead, they walk in light and so have fellowship with one another and are bonded together by the love of God. (I John 3:14) God is love, and those who are His children also inherit the Godly trait of love. (I John 4:8; John 1:12)
Holiness: Paul writes that God may establish believers in love so that they may abound in love for one another. That will result in being blameless and holy in the presence of the Triune God. (I Thessalonians 3:12-13) Holiness and love provide healthy relationships that honour God, His Church, and others.
Agreement: As the Body of Christ, the believers, as members of the Body, strive for restoration, agreement, and comfort of one another. “Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.” (II Corinthians 13:11)
Unity: Peter writes that brotherly love, holiness, and agreement should lead to unity. The minds are united, as they are humble. Also, their hearts are tender or meek. (I Peter 3:8)
Fruit of the Spirit: As the Holy Spirit works in every believer, they yield the Fruit of the Spirit that nourishes and flourishes the fellowship. The Garden of Church is filled with fruits of Love, joy, peace, patience, guidance, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (Galatians 5:22-23)
Do I love my brothers and sisters in the Family of God?