The New Testament was written basically in Greek from where we have the Vulgate (Latin Version) and ultimately the English Bible. The word ‘love’ has different meanings in the Greek language. The first is ‘eros’. This is where we got the English word ‘erotic’. This describes sexual attraction between two individuals of the opposite gender. When young people claim they are in love, they are most probably speaking at this level. The problem with erotic feelings is that they do fade, and relationships built only on such are doomed.

Jesus commanded His disciples to love one another, but it has to be done in the right way – the agape way. It is the supreme love that is not served as a reward for being worthy, but embracing people as God does.

Then you have the word ‘phileo’. This type of love is brotherly affection, displayed towards people we are fond of. You find this among close relationships where one is seeking the welfare of another. Lastly, there is the word agape also talking about love. When you read that God so loved the world, it is referring to the ‘agape’. This is the unconditional love of God with the price tag of Jesus’ Blood. To understand the difference between phileo and agape, consider the fact that the former is directed at people we think are deserving of it; whereas the latter is to all people, including those who are undeserving. “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8 NKJV. Jesus commanded His disciples to love one another, but it has to be done in the right way – the agape way. It is the supreme love that is not served as a reward for being worthy, but embracing people as God does.