In our society today, there are many misconceptions about love, but there is only one Truth – GOD’s Word. The Bible clearly defines our Christian priorities in I Corinthians 13:13, placing “love” in first place. “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is LOVE.”

So, what is the definition of love? Who can best define it? And, where does it come from? We must search the Bible for these answers.

I John 4:7b tells us that “Love comes from GOD.” Now that we know the Source of love, how can we define or characterize it? I Corinthians 13:4-8 provides a thorough view into the characteristics of love. “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.”

To better understand a concept, it is often helpful to have an example. Where can we find an example of love? … We can find it in St. John 3:16, where “GOD so loved the world that He gave His only begotten SON.”

If you are a parent, think of your child. Are you willing to sacrifice his or her life for the well-being of someone else? It might be safe to assume that your answer is “No.” But, GOD’s answer was “Yes.” He loved you enough… more than you could ever imagine!

“Dear friends, since GOD so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” (I John 4:11, NIV) Loving others, who are flawed as we are, is sometimes challenging. Here, it is important to remember our own imperfections (Romans 3:23, Isaiah 64:6a, St. Matthew 7:3), and how CHRIST loved us in spite of our sins.

Lastly, expressing love cannot be done in part. JESUS teaches us this in St. Matthew 22:37-40, when he instructs us to “Love the LORD your GOD with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.” He defined this as the Greatest Commandment. He continued, “And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.'”

JESUS CHRIST is our best possible Professor in Love 101 because it was love that kept Him on The Cross, not His enemies. This is love in its purest form. JESUS is love.

To start your love story in CHRIST, click here or contact us for more information. Also, feel free to call us at 901-745-5287 or email [email protected].