All Things In Love 1 Corinthians 16:14
How Important Is Love? A fundamental teaching of the New Testament (Matt. 22:36-40) Without love there is nothing (1 Cor. 13:1-3) Paul says he is nothing without it He produces nothing of value without it (indistinguishable noise) He receives nothing of value (“profits me nothing”)
Definition Of Terms Our English word “love” New Testament written in Koine Greek Eros. Describes physical, sensual, passionate love; the kind of love which leads to the selfish satisfaction of one’s own appetite. Not in NT Storge. Describes a love of kindred. Used of parents and children. A natural affection. A form of this word is used three times in the NT (Rom. 1:31; 12:10; 2 Tim. 3:3)
Phileo. Used to describe warmth and tender affection which exists among family, friends, or others. It is a higher form of love, but still emotion-based Agapao. Describes a love beyond emotion. A supreme act of will which goes beyond natural desire. Clearest examples are John 3:16 and Romans 5:8. God loves us though we are unworthy
Surprising Points About Love We are to love our enemies (Matt. 5:43-48) Love is commanded (Jn. 13:34-35) Not natural or emotional Must be developed The example of the Thessalonians (1 Thess. 4:9-10)
There is such a thing as tough love (Eph. 4:15) Tough love is Paul rebuking Peter (Gal. 2:11) Tough love is Paul’s letters to Corinth (2 Cor. 13:10)