Can we call Jesus our brother?
In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus emphasizes the importance of relationships within the family of faith, saying, “For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother” (Matthew 12:50, NIV).
Many Christians refer to Jesus not only as their Lord and Savior but also as their brother. This title, “brother,” may seem unconventional when considering Jesus' divine nature, yet it is deeply rooted in scripture and theology. This blog post explores the different dimensions and interpretations of calling Jesus our brother, unpacking its implications for faith, community, and personal relationship with the divine.
Biblical Foundations for the Title "Brother"
The notion of Jesus as a brother is not merely a modern interpretation but has foundational roots in the New Testament. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus emphasizes the importance of relationships within the family of faith, saying, “For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother” (Matthew 12:50, NIV). Here, Jesus expands the traditional understanding of family to include anyone who follows God’s will, indicating a familial bond among believers.
Moreover, the Book of Hebrews also addresses this relationship, stating, “Both the one who makes people holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters” (Hebrews 2:11, NIV).
This scripture underscores the belief that Jesus participated in humanity to such an extent that he identifies with us as family. For many Christians, this familial connection serves to enhance their understanding of who Jesus is, both God incarnate and a relatable companion in their spiritual journey.
Theological Implications of Jesus as Brother
Calling Jesus our brother carries significant theological implications. It suggests a profound understanding of the incarnation, where God entered human history and experience. By becoming human, Jesus not only demonstrated God’s love but also created a means for believers to connect with him on a personal level. This connection breaks down hierarchical barriers, establishing a relational dynamic that emphasizes love, compassion, and mutual understanding.
Furthermore, recognizing Jesus as a brother reinforces the idea of shared suffering and redemption. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus faced trials, temptations, and ultimately, the cross. This shared experience of suffering allows believers to see Jesus not only as someone who is distant and divine but as someone who intimately understands human struggles. In this light, having Jesus as a brother becomes a source of comfort, as believers can approach him with their burdens, knowing that he empathizes with their experiences.
Community and the Brotherhood of Believers
The concept of calling Jesus our brother also extends to the community of believers. Within the Christian tradition, there is a strong emphasis on the idea of the Church as the body of Christ, with each member playing a vital role. This interconnectedness fosters a sense of family among believers, who are all united under the lordship of Jesus. When Christians refer to Jesus as their brother, they recognize a wider family that includes fellow believers, transcending age, race, and social status.
This communal aspect reinforces the notion of love and support within the Christian faith. Just as siblings are called to support one another, followers of Christ are encouraged to love and uplift each other. This unity is essential for the mission of the Church, as it seeks to reflect the love of Jesus to the world. In this sense, calling Jesus our brother helps to cultivate a culture of brotherhood and sisterhood, encouraging believers to come together in fellowship and service.
The Personal Relationship with Jesus
On an individual level, calling Jesus our brother can lead to a more personal and relatable approach to faith. It encourages believers to engage with him in a manner that mirrors healthy familial relationships. By seeing Jesus as a brother, individuals may feel more comfortable approaching him in prayer or seeking guidance, viewing him not just as a sovereign deity but as a compassionate companion.
This personal relationship can also nurture a deeper understanding of grace. If Jesus, as our brother, can empathize with our struggles and failures, it can lead to a transformative experience of forgiveness and acceptance. Believers may find strength in their identity as children of God, reassured by the knowledge that they are part of a loving family where Jesus stands alongside them, offering support and understanding.
Conclusion
Ultimately, calling Jesus our brother invites us into a deeper relationship with him and each other, encouraging us to live out the values of love and service that he exemplified during his time on earth.