Topical Encyclopedia Family love, as depicted in the Bible, is a foundational element of God's design for human relationships. It is characterized by commitment, sacrifice, and a reflection of God's love for His people. The Scriptures provide numerous examples and teachings that illustrate the importance and nature of love within the family unit.Biblical Foundations The concept of family love is rooted in the creation narrative. In Genesis 2:24 , it is written, "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh." This verse underscores the establishment of the marital bond as the cornerstone of family life, emphasizing unity and love between husband and wife. The Ten Commandments further highlight the significance of family relationships. Exodus 20:12 instructs, "Honor your father and mother, so that your days may be long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you." This commandment underscores the respect and love children are to show their parents, which is a vital aspect of family love. Parental Love Parental love is a recurring theme in the Bible, often depicted as nurturing and instructive. Proverbs 22:6 advises, "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." This verse highlights the responsibility of parents to guide their children with love and wisdom. The New Testament also speaks to the role of parents. Ephesians 6:4 states, "Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath; instead, bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." This passage emphasizes the balance of discipline and love, encouraging parents to foster a nurturing environment. Sibling Love The Bible also addresses the love between siblings. The account of Joseph and his brothers in Genesis illustrates both the challenges and the redemptive power of sibling relationships. Despite the initial jealousy and betrayal, Joseph ultimately forgives his brothers, demonstrating love and reconciliation (Genesis 50:15-21). The New Testament reinforces the importance of sibling love within the family of believers. 1 John 4:20-21 states, "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." Marital Love Marital love is portrayed as a profound and sacrificial bond. Ephesians 5:25 instructs, "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her." This verse sets a high standard for marital love, calling husbands to emulate Christ's selfless love. The Song of Solomon celebrates the beauty and passion of marital love, depicting it as a gift from God. This poetic book highlights the joy and intimacy that characterize a loving marriage. Extended Family and Community The Bible also extends the concept of family love to the broader community of faith. In 1 Timothy 5:1-2 , Paul advises, "Do not rebuke an older man, but appeal to him as to a father. Treat younger men as brothers, older women as mothers, and younger women as sisters, with absolute purity." This passage encourages believers to view one another as family, fostering a community of love and respect. Conclusion Family love, as presented in the Bible, is a reflection of God's love and a vital component of His design for human relationships. Through the examples and teachings found in Scripture, believers are called to cultivate love within their families, mirroring the love of Christ in their interactions with one another. Topical Bible Verses Titus 2:4That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, Topicalbible.org Ephesians 5:33 Ephesians 5:28 Ephesians 5:25 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 Ephesians 6:2 Greek 5387. philostorgos -- tenderly loving ... to. 5387 (from 5384 , "lover, friend" and , "natural or family love") -- properly, a lover of (used only in Ro 12:10). 5387 (" love ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5387.htm - 7k 5361. philadelphos -- loving one's brother Library Family of Love. Psalm 133 Communion of Saints; Or, Love and Worship in a Family. Psalm 133:2. SM Communion of Saints; Or, Love and Worship in a ... Tryphena and Tryphosa Jonathan's Love for David The Communion of Saints. On Family Religion The Solidarity of the Human Family Priscilla and Aquila Jehoshaphat's Reform Resources What does the Bible say about family? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about family conflict? | GotQuestions.org How does the Bible define a good Christian family? | GotQuestions.org Family: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Family of Saints: Be Duly Regulated Family of Saints: Deceivers and Liars should be Removed From Family of Saints: Live in Mutual Forbearance Family of Saints: Live in Unity Family of Saints: Punishment of Irreligious Family of Saints: Rejoice Together Before God Family of Saints: should be Taught God's Word Family of Saints: Warned Against Departing from God Family of Saints: Worship God Together Family: Good: Jailor of Philippi Family: Good: Lazarus of Bethany Family: Infelicity in David and Michal Family: Infelicity in Elkanah, on Account of Bigamic Feuds Family: Infelicity in Moses and Zipporah Family: Infelicity In of Abraham, on Account of Hagar Family: Infelicity In of Isaac, on Account of the Disagreement Between Jacob and Esau Family: Infelicity In of Jacob, the Bigamic Jealousy Between Leah and Rachel Family: Persian, Domestic Customs Related Terms |