Love From a Christian Perspective
Love is a word we hear often, but its meaning can vary drastically depending on context. In today’s world, love is frequently romanticized, commercialized, and at times misunderstood. Yet, when we look at Scripture, we discover that love is far more profound, multifaceted, and holy than what culture often portrays. The Greek language offers us five distinct types of love, each shedding light on a different dimension of how humans relate to one another—and most importantly—how we relate to God. This blog post was inspired by an amazing sermon given by the former pastor of my church who has since retired and continues to be an inspiration to me.
As followers of Christ, understanding these types of love can deepen our walk with the Lord and enhance our relationships with others. Let’s explore these five types of love from a Christian perspective, guided by the timeless truths of God’s Word.
1. Eros (ἔρως): Romantic Love
Eros is the Greek word for romantic or passionate love. It’s where we get the word “erotic.” While this type of love is not mentioned by name in the New Testament, its presence is acknowledged in Scripture—especially in the context of marriage.
God created Eros as a beautiful and sacred bond between husband and wife. In Song of Solomon, we see poetic expressions of romantic love:
“I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine.” – Song of Solomon 6:3 (NIV)
From a Christian viewpoint, Eros is not sinful when expressed within the bounds of marriage. In fact, the Apostle Paul encourages married couples not to withhold affection from one another (1 Corinthians 7:3-5). However, when Eros is removed from its God-given context, it can quickly become self-serving or even idolatrous.
Christian Reflection: Eros love is a gift, but like all gifts, it must be stewarded with purity and honor. We are called to flee from sexual immorality (1 Corinthians 6:18) and pursue relationships that glorify God.
2. Philia (φιλία): Brotherly Love
Philia represents deep friendship and affectionate love. It is the kind of love that binds friends together in mutual respect, loyalty, and shared values. This form of love appears in Scripture as the bond among believers.
Jesus Himself expressed Philia when He said:
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” – John 15:13 (NIV)
The early church modeled Philia in their communities, sharing meals, possessions, and worshiping together in unity (Acts 2:42-47).
Christian Reflection: Philia challenges us to be selfless friends and compassionate members of the Body of Christ. It reminds us that Christian fellowship is not merely about attending services but about truly living life together in love.
3. Storge (στοργή): Familial Love
Storge refers to natural, familial love—like the love between parents and children or among siblings. This love is steady, enduring, and often unconditional. Though the term itself is rarely used in the Bible, its essence is seen throughout.
For example, Paul speaks of Storge-like love in:
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” – Romans 12:10 (NIV)
Jesus demonstrated this love when He cared for His mother even as He hung on the cross (John 19:26-27).
Christian Reflection: Storge teaches us about loyalty, patience, and sacrifice within the family unit. It mirrors the nurturing love of our heavenly Father, who adopts us into His family through Christ (Romans 8:15-17).
4. Ludus (Λούδος): Playful or Flirtatious Love
Ludus is not often discussed in Christian circles, but it can be understood as playful or flirtatious affection—think of young love or the fun of flirting. While it can be innocent and joyful, Ludus can also be superficial or misused, leading to unhealthy relationships or temptation.
From a Christian perspective, this kind of love must be approached with discernment. Playfulness and lighthearted affection can be a joyful part of relationships, especially in dating or marriage, but they should never cross into manipulation or lust.
“Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good.” – Romans 12:9 (ESV)
Christian Reflection: Ludus, when pure and respectful, can add joy to relationships. But as Christians, we must ensure that our expressions of affection are grounded in respect and guided by the Spirit.
5. Agape (ἀγάπη): God’s Unconditional Love
Agape is the highest form of love—the love that comes from God. It is selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional. This is the love that sent Jesus to the cross. It is the love that expects nothing in return and acts entirely for the benefit of the other.
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8 (NIV)
“Love is patient, love is kind… It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.” – 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 (NIV)
Agape is the love Christians are called to imitate. It transcends feelings and chooses to love, even when it is difficult.
Christian Reflection: Agape love is the essence of Christian living. It’s the love that forgives enemies, serves the poor, and remains steadfast through trials. When we are rooted in Agape, we become a reflection of Christ in a world desperately in need of His light.
Love as the Fulfillment of the Law
Jesus summarized the entire law in two commandments centered on love:
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” … “Love your neighbor as yourself.” – Matthew 22:37-39 (NIV)
Love is not just an emotion or an act—it’s the very heartbeat of the Gospel. Love is what separates true disciples of Christ from the world:
“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” – John 13:35 (NIV)
Final Thoughts
Love, in all its forms, plays a role in our Christian journey. But Agape—the love of God—is what gives meaning and eternal value to them all. Without Agape, romantic love becomes lust, friendship becomes favoritism, and family love becomes duty. But with Agape, all forms of love are purified, elevated, and empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Let us commit to loving as Christ loved—sacrificially, unconditionally, and joyfully. Let’s allow our lives to be living testimonies of the love that saved us.
Let’s Talk!
Have you experienced these different types of love in your walk with Christ? How has Agape love transformed your relationships or healed past wounds?
I’d love to hear your stories and reflections. Share your thoughts in the comments below—your testimony might be the encouragement someone else needs today!
A Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for revealing to us the fullness of love through Your Word and through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Teach us to love as You love—with compassion, with forgiveness, and with joy. Let our hearts reflect Agape in our marriages, friendships, families, and even toward our enemies. Help us to walk daily in love, rooted in Your truth. May Your Spirit guide us to be examples of Your divine love in a world that so desperately needs it. We love You, Lord, and we praise You for first loving us.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
Stay blessed, and keep walking with the Lord.
– James Steele | Walks With The Lord
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