My Brother, My Witness

The Bible makes it clear that the nature of our relationships with others is a salvation issue. Are we quick to forgive, to apologize, to make peace? Or do we hang on to old hurts, rush to cut people out of our lives, and never say we're sorry? The answer matters, both now and for eternity. It's not that loving others saves us, but it shows that we have been, and are being, saved.

25) “And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses. 26) But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your trespasses.” ~Mark 11:25-26

20) If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen. 21) And this commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother. ~1 John 4:20-21

By this it is evident who are the children of God, and who are the children of the devil: whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is the one who does not love his brother. ~1 John 3:10

14) Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord. 15) See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no “root of bitterness” springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled... ~Hebrews 12:14-15

Jesus said to His disciples:

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” ~John 13:34-35