Lots of what people call “love” is really self-interest that requires other people. There are different things that we can easily confuse with genuine biblical love, like romantic or sexual attraction, or maybe even a good friendship. Those in themselves are not bad. God implanted sexual attraction into humans, and they had it even before the fall into sin. But, like all good things, it can be distorted and abused and results in a wide range of social problems, family fractures, and criminal activity. Friendship love is also a good thing that can be abused. It can take a nasty turn into toxic dependency and manipulation. The genuine love that Saint Paul refers to uses a Greek word agape. It means unconditional, self-sacrificing love. That’s the word used whenever it says that God loves. That’s the word used for genuine love, which comes only from God.

Scripture References: Romans 12:9-10, John 21:15-19

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From Series: "Eye Chart of Grace"