Love is one of the most potent and complex words in the English language. We say, “I love my family,” and “I love pizza.” The same word describes everything from our deepest relationships to our simplest pleasures. But does this definition align with what the Bible teaches about love?
Scripture reveals that love is not merely an emotion or personal preference. Love is the very essence of God’s character. 1 John 4:8 declares, “God is love.” This truth cuts through our confusion. Love isn’t a feeling we define; it is a divine reality revealed to us through Jesus Christ.
Four Dimensions of God’s Love
God’s love is unselfish, gracious, merciful, and eternal. It is unselfish because He does not owe it to us. It is gracious because we cannot earn it. It is merciful because it rescues us from the consequences of our sins. And it is eternal, enduring beyond time and space for those who choose to receive it. Unlike human love, which is often tied to emotions or expectations, God’s love flows purely from His nature.
We see the ultimate expression of love at the cross. John, one of Jesus’ closest followers, witnessed this firsthand. He stood at the foot of the cross as Jesus bore the weight of our sins. Jesus’ dying words—entrusting Mary to John and declaring, “It is finished”—show the selfless, sacrificial nature of divine love. This love does not simply say, “I care about you”; it gives everything for your salvation.
Love in Action
True love isn’t just spoken; it’s shown. 1 John 3:18 urges us to “not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions.” Words of love can be empty if not backed by deeds. Similarly, actions without the right motive can be hypocritical. God’s love calls us to match our words with actions that glorify Him and serve others.
Consider this challenge: If God has loved us with such a perfect, sacrificial love, how can we not share it with others? John reminds us that our love for others is the evidence of God’s work in us. When we love, we reflect God who first loved us.
Our Response to God’s Love
“Love is love” is a familiar phrase and a popular sentiment in our culture today. It’s often used to express the belief that people should be free to love however they choose. At first glance, it seems reasonable and appealing—you love your way, and I’ll love mine. But there’s a problem: it’s not true.
If love contains every meaning, then love has no meaning. If love is defined only by personal preference, it becomes self-centered and loses its depth and purpose. Love is NOT love. God is love.