A BROTHER AND COMPANION IN TRIBULATION.
*WISDOM FOR TODAY.*
*A BROTHER AND COMPANION IN TRIBULATION*
*Scripture Treasure.*
Revelation 1:9 *John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.*
*Insight and Highlight.*
There will always be at least one companion with you in times of trouble.
*Scripture Commentaries.*
John introduces himself in Rev 1:9 as a brother.
He used the noun to illustrate a brother in fellowship but not in biological makeup.
He brings to the fore the significance of care a 'brother' gives.
Friends are good and we all make a lot of them. A friend in Prov 18:24 is a friend with the heart of a brother that John represents.
John introduces himself to us as a brother who loves as if we were from the same parents or blood line. This love is called Phillia or familiar love.
This love, as if we are of the same blood line, is what John is preaching.
David loved Jonathan as if they were of the same blood line.
Loving others the way David and Jonathan loved is so intertwined that the scriptures say their souls were knitted, 1 Sam 18:1
John says four things that made this love so beautiful that if only it could be so in the Kingdom, it would be better for us.
First, John introduced himself as a brother, a fellowship brother, one who is not a relation by biological makeup and was born for adversity, Prov 17:17. The influence of someone who cares is the foundation of true love.
Second, John called himself a brother who identified as a companion in tribulation and was not afraid to say and write so.
People like John will be there when things are well and will be there when things are not well.
Though he is a brother by the blood of Christ, he is far and too better than a relation!
John's introduction of himself as a companion in tribulation tells us that he was ready to walk hand in hand with others even when the going gets tough.
As for John, his brotherly love must continue despite the tribulation, hardship, trials, and challenges.
Third, he identified himself with the Kingdom of Christ.
You can not love or be helpful to a brother if you do not feel his Kingdom pains, suffering, and tribulation.
You must feel his pain if you truly belong to the same Kingdom of Christ.
John is saying that he and others in Christ are of one blood.
Finally, he introduced himself with total reference to patience.
He, patiently, through suffering waited for a revelation of Christ and Christ, counted Him worthy to receive His revelation.
John was in the lsle of Patmos after having escaped persecution. He lived a very long life, and he outlived all other disciples.
A preacher of love who allowed patience to have its perfect work.
How many will be a brother to you in your time of trouble or remain your companion or still belong to the same fellowship of a suffering brother in the Kingdom?
Not everyone identifies with someone in trouble, but many identify with people who are not in trouble.
Which one are you?
*Remorse corner.*
John truly was a preacher of love *.....without dissimulation....*, Rom 12:9.
*Call to Word action.*
John's love for his fellow brothers was, at most, unwavering and perfect.
He says when you love someone, your love is made perfect because you have no fear. Though today may not be good for your brother, his tomorrow shall be well.
*The Christian clarion duty.*
1 John 4:18 *There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.*
Love knows no boundaries. It is not limited to those you know or related to but to those you do not know.
*Prayer.*
Lord, help me to love people regardless of whoever they may be, in Jesus name.
Good morning all and have a blessed day today.
God bless you.