The Meaning of Love

February is the month when our thoughts turn to love. Valentine’s Day comes right in the middle of the month. Our culture seems to be confused about the meaning of love. One problem for us is the limitation of language. We have one word for love. So we are dependent on context to provide the insight that when I say “I love my wife” and “I love seafood” that I mean something different.

The ancient Greeks had three words that are translated “love.” Eros was sexual, physical love. Phileo was love among brothers and friends. Agape
was an obscure word that was elevated to a place of prominence by the Biblical writers. It is self-giving, sacrificial love. My Systematic Theology professor in seminary, Dr. John Eddins, said that marriage is the only human relationship in which eros, phileo, and agape should be present. That is why marriage takes precedence over every other relationship.

The New Testament writers only used the words phileo and agape. Of course, the most prominent word is agape which describes the love demonstrated by Jesus Christ. It was this love that drove Him to the Cross as the sacrifice for the sins of all mankind. God’s Word makes it clear that we are people who are called to show agape to the people around us. The teachings of Jesus are radical at this point. He does not limit the call to show agape. It isn’t just for our family and friends. Jesus also told us to love our enemies.

During the month of February I will be preaching about this radical call to agape! It will be an opportunity for us to learn more about God’s love for us as well as His command for us to love others. I look forward to it!