1. …

2. Matthew 12:50 Matthew 23:8-11 Mark 10:28-31

3. The promise is to be fulfilled in this lifetime (Mark 10:28-31; Luke 18:19-30) We have also been promised hostility from our earthly families & persecution from the world. (Matthew 10:36; 2 Timothy 3:12) But the promise of a large spiritual family is fulfilled in fellow Christians.

4. Provide teaching and guidance from God’s word. (Deut. 4:9-10; 6:7-9; Titus 2:1-5) Tell us what we need to hear (1 Tim. 5:1-2) Show honor & loyalty to one another (Romans 12:10) Bear each other’s burdens (Galatians 6:1-2, 10; Proverbs 17:17) Provide for one another’s needs (1 Timothy 5:8; James 2:15-17)

5. Spend time together (Acts 2:44, 46) Communicate Be patient and longsuffering (1 Thessalonians 5:14; 2:7; Colossians 1:11) Endure and forbear (1 Corinthians 13:7; 1:10; Revelation 3:1-5; Philippians 4:2-3)

6. 1 Peter 2:17 commands, “Love the brotherhood”