There are four basic words for love in the Greek language. Eros refers to physical love; it gives us our English word erotic. Eros love does not have to be sinful, but in Paul’s day its main emphasis was sensual. This word is never used in the New Testament.
Another word, storge (pronounced STOR-gay), refers to family love, the love of parents for their children. This word is also absent from our New Testament, though a related word is translated “kindly affectioned” in the King James Version in Romans 12:10.

The two words most used for love are philia (fil-E-uh) and agape (a-GAH-pay). Philia is the love of deep affection, such as friendship or even marriage. But agape is the love God shows toward us. It is not simply a love based on feeling; it is expressed in our wills. Agape love treats others as God would treat them, regardless of feelings or personal preferences.

The word Philadelphia is translated “brotherly love.” Because Christians belong to the same family, and have the same Father, they should love one another.

Christ taught: “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another” (John 13:34).

Other Scripture: Romans 5:5; 12:10, 1 John 4:19; 1 Thessalonians 3:12.

Action assignment: Ask God to bring to mind someone for whom you can do something in love. Find the hymn by Charles Wesley, “Love Divine, All Loves Excelling,” and make it part of your prayer.