e word, Philadelphia, is likely to call to mind a city in the United States or one of the seven churches mentioned in the book of Revelation. However, throughout Scripture, its primary meaning is love for the brethren-a mutual a ection among believers marked by joy and sel essness. Not existing before Christ walked the earth, this love type forms a backbone doctrine of Christian community. It is unique in nature and runs deeper than even earthly family bonds. Instituted by Christ and commanded throughout the New Testament scripture (Rom. 12:10; 1 ess. 4:9; Heb. 13:1; 1 Pet. 1:22; 2 Pet. 1:7), Philadelphia was practised by the Apostles and early believers in obedience to the command of Christ to love one another as He had loved them (John 13:34). Sadly, this love type has faded over the ages. is book o ers a comprehensive biblical study of it and calls for its resurgence in the body of Christ.
