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What does the bible say about love?
Biblical Love (Agape) is defined in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7. There we read that Agape love has these
characteristics. 1. It is Patient 2. kind 3. does not envy 4. It does not boast, 5. It is not proud and 6. does not
dishonor others 7. Love is not selfish, 8.it is not angry and 9. does not keep records of wrongs 10. It does not delight
in evil but rejoices in truth. 11. It always protects 12. It always trusts 14. It always hopes and it 15. always
perseveres. Agape love is the highest form of love possible. It is by its characteristics unselfish and always puts
others ahead of self. It is given even though it is not reciprocated.
Another word used in the first century for love was “eros” and always involved either marital love or the physical
expression of intimacy. This word is the least often used to express love in the New Testament. This word is what
most people think about when they think about love in our society.
“Phileo” is another word for love used in the bible and it refers to the love one would have for his fellow man or
friend.
“Storge”- is also used in the New Testament and this word refers to familial love. The love a father and mother have
for children, etc.
Clearly, we can see from the defining of the different terms for love that it is “agape” that is most desired by all who
want to please God. If husbands and wives, politicians, patriots, workers and co-workers and everyone in society
lived by loved like God says in 1 Cor; 13:4-7, it certainly would be a better world. Sadly, however because this type
of love demands total humility, few are willing to practice it.
This is the type of love Christ had for mankind when He laid down His life at the cross for us. No man alive, past or
present, deserves the love that Christ showed for us. But He extended it to us anyway. What matchless, awesome
love! Try showing this type of love back to Christ for all He has done for you. Try showing this type of love to
your spouse, family, co-workers and societal interactions. Encourage this type of love in our political leaders. I
guarantee you that the world will be a better place. ---Stan Adams—
Please address all questions and comments to What the Bible Says c/o Maple Street Church of Christ P.O. Box 3081,
Liberty, TX 77575
