Introduction

The concept of love is central to the Christian faith, as it reflects the very nature of God and His relationship with humanity. Evaluating our love involves examining how our actions, thoughts, and intentions align with the biblical standard of love. This entry explores the biblical foundation for love, its characteristics, and how believers are called to manifest it in their lives.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible presents love as the greatest commandment and the fulfillment of the law. In Matthew 22:37-39 , Jesus states, "‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’" These commandments encapsulate the essence of Christian love, directing believers to prioritize their relationship with God and extend that love to others.

The Apostle Paul further emphasizes the preeminence of love in 1 Corinthians 13:13 : "And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love; but the greatest of these is love." Love is portrayed as the enduring virtue that surpasses all others, underscoring its importance in the life of a believer.

Characteristics of Love

1. Selflessness: Biblical love is characterized by selflessness and sacrifice. In John 15:13 , Jesus declares, "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." This ultimate act of love is exemplified in Christ's sacrifice on the cross, setting a standard for believers to follow.

2. Patience and Kindness: Love is patient and kind, as described in 1 Corinthians 13:4 : "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud." These attributes reflect a gentle and humble spirit, essential for nurturing relationships and fostering community.

3. Truth and Righteousness: Love rejoices with the truth and is aligned with righteousness. 1 Corinthians 13:6 states, "Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth." This aspect of love calls believers to uphold truth and justice, rejecting falsehood and sin.

4. Endurance and Perseverance: Love is enduring and persevering. 1 Corinthians 13:7 affirms, "It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things." This resilience in love reflects a commitment to others, even in the face of challenges and adversity.

Manifesting Love in the Christian Life

1. Love for God: Loving God involves obedience to His commandments and a deep, personal relationship with Him. In John 14:15 , Jesus says, "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments." This love is expressed through worship, prayer, and a life dedicated to His service.

2. Love for Others: Christians are called to love others as an expression of their love for God. 1 John 4:20-21 challenges believers: "If anyone says, 'I love God,' but hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. And we have this commandment from Him: Whoever loves God must love his brother as well." This love is demonstrated through acts of kindness, forgiveness, and compassion.

3. Love in Action: Love is not merely an emotion but is demonstrated through action. James 2:15-17 illustrates this principle: "Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you tells him, 'Go in peace; stay warm and well fed,' but does not provide for his physical needs, what good is that? So too, faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead." True love compels believers to meet the needs of others, reflecting the love of Christ in tangible ways.

Conclusion

Evaluating our love requires a continual reflection on how our lives align with the biblical standard of love. By examining our love for God and others, and ensuring it is characterized by selflessness, patience, truth, and endurance, believers can grow in their faith and witness to the world the transformative power of God's love.