Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Nature True love, as depicted in the Bible, is a selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional love that reflects the nature of God Himself. It is often associated with the Greek word "agape," which signifies a love that is not based on emotions or feelings but is an act of the will, seeking the highest good of others. True love is foundational to Christian ethics and is the essence of God's commandments. Biblical Foundation The Bible presents God as the ultimate source and example of true love. In 1 John 4:8, it is stated, "Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love." This verse underscores the intrinsic nature of God as love itself. True love is further exemplified in the sacrificial act of Jesus Christ, as described in John 3:16: "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." Characteristics of True Love 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 provides a detailed description of true love: "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." These verses highlight the enduring and virtuous nature of true love, emphasizing its moral and ethical dimensions. Commandment of Love True love is not merely an ideal but a commandment for believers. Jesus emphasized the importance of love in Matthew 22:37-39: "Jesus declared, '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 the Law and the Prophets, indicating that true love is central to the Christian life. Love in Action True love is demonstrated through actions and not just words. In 1 John 3:18, believers are exhorted, "Little children, let us love not in word and speech, but in action and truth." This verse calls for a practical expression of love that goes beyond mere verbal affirmation, urging believers to manifest love through deeds that reflect the love of Christ. Love and Sacrifice The ultimate expression of true love is found in sacrifice. John 15:13 states, "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." This sacrificial aspect of love is epitomized in the life and death of Jesus Christ, who laid down His life for humanity. Believers are called to emulate this sacrificial love in their relationships with others. Love and Forgiveness True love is closely linked with forgiveness. In Colossians 3:13-14, Paul writes, "Bear with each other and forgive any complaint you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which is the bond of perfect unity." Forgiveness is an essential component of true love, fostering reconciliation and unity among believers. Conclusion True love, as portrayed in the Bible, is a profound and transformative force that reflects the character of God. It is a love that transcends human limitations, calling believers to a higher standard of living that mirrors the sacrificial love of Christ. Through true love, believers are empowered to fulfill the greatest commandments and to live in harmony with one another, embodying the love that God has for all creation. Topical Bible Verses John 3:16For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. Topicalbible.org 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 1 John 4:8 John 14:15 Genesis 29:18-20 Greek 25. agapao -- to love ... With the believer, 25 ("to love") means actively doing what prefers, Him (by His power and direction). True 25 ("loving") is always -- a " affection which ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/25.htm - 10k 5385. philosophia -- the love or pursuit of wisdom 4102. pistis -- faith, faithfulness 288. ampelos -- vine 250. aloe -- aloe Library Of True Love, by which we Arrive at the Knowledge of the Trinity. ... True Love as it Intendeth the Greatest Gifts Intendeth Also the ... "True Love Teacheth us that we Should Hate Sin Only for Love. " " ... True Love. Of Love to God Love is the True Means by which the World is Enjoyed: Our Love to ... Love for Hate, the True Quid Pro Quo The Fire of Love Praise of the Philippians. The Burning of Love Purges vices and Sins: and of the Tokens of ... Resources Which church is the true church? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean for Jesus to be your true north? | GotQuestions.org Why is finding true love so difficult? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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