Love is a word we use often. We love food, friends, family, sports, music. But not all love is the same. Scripture reveals a kind of love that stands above every other kind — agape love.
Agape is not based on feelings. It is not dependent on someone’s response. It is not earned.
Agape is selfless, sacrificial, unconditional love.
• 1 John 4:8
“The one who does not love does not know God, because God is love.”
—Agape love originates from God Himself. He is the source of agape love.
• John 15:13
“No one has greater love than this: to lay down his life for his friends.”
—This is the definition of agape love. Love sacrifices.
The Bible uses different Greek words for love:
• Phileo – brotherly love (friendship)
• Eros – romantic love
• Storge – family affection
• Agape – divine, unconditional love
The others are beautiful and necessary — but they often depend on mutual affection or relationship.
Agape does not depend on:
—Feelings
—Chemistry
—Agreement
—Deserving behavior
That’s why Jesus said in Matthew 5:44:
“But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,”
Human love struggles there. Agape steps in there.
The question is not whether we have received agape — but instead if we are reflecting on it.