By way of explaining of 1 Thessalonians 4:9-12, the author highlights three ways we can show brotherly love, and two reasons why these opportunities are important.

The author reflects on the true meaning of Christian brotherly love by comparing it to the love between a husband and wife. By referring to 1 John 3:16-18, she emphasizes that love is an action and not simply an emotion, and that it is based on commitment.