Special Kind of Love
There is no substitute for the Christianity produced by the Holy Spirit of God in the life experience of those born again. There is no emotion which proves true Christianity more than the special kind of love resulting from the new birth. Agape love is the greatest hallmark of true Christianity. The three Greek words for “love” are “eros”, “phileo”, and “agape”. The first word has to do with the love between husbands and wives. The second word has to do with the love of friends or the love of parents and children. It also is the word describing the love of a patriot for Country. The last word is the special and highest form of love and is the kind of love that God has for people. It is also the kind of love that God gives to those born again.
Agape love is of God and it has no substitute. If one does not have this special kind of love, they are not saved! “Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him.” – I John 5:1 The word used in this text is “agape.” If the words, “phileo” or “eros” were used, parents, children, patriots, and friends would be born of God simply because they do have a form of love! Agape love is placed into the hearts of those truly born again. “And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.” – Romans 5:5
Talents and special ability are no substitute for the special love that God gives to those saved. “Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.” – I Corinthians 13:1 Those without this kind of love are not only unsaved but, quite frankly, nothing but noise! This kind of love is a sacrificial kind of love and goes the extra mile to forge good relationships while exemplifying true Christianity. The reading of this entire I Corinthian Chapter, sets the record straight in the matter of genuine Christianity in shoe leather. The Chapter militates against the Pharisaical “touch not the unclean approach” but rather presents the “is not puffed up” approach! (Ref, V.4) This kind of love is not only seen as a proving love but also a priority love. “And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.” – I Corinthians 13:13
Chuck Peters – 9/10/2023
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