John’s first epistle teaches us that while it is important to recognize the lines between truth and error, it must always be done in a spirit of love. Then he speaks complementary to them and I hope to us as well, “I have written to you…Because you have OVERCOME THE WICKED ONE.” (1 John 2:14)
Now he gives us some very, every day, godly advise ETHAN, KATIE, “Do not love (agapé) the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves (agapé: God’s unconditional love) the world, the love of the Father is NOT IN HIM (we cannot agapē the world and God). For all that is in the world—the lust (desiring what is forbidden) of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is NOT OF THE FATHER but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides (stands with God) forever.” (1 John 2:15-17)
There are 4 types of love mentioned in the bible;
- Eros: sexual or romantic love. Probably the most well-known word for love, but it not used in the New Testament. It may have been used in the Septuagint translations of the Old Testament.
- Phileo: fraternal or friendly love. The love that you would show a brother or a friend who is closer than a brother.
- Agape: self-sacrificial love. Of obvious importance in the New Testament. This word suggests a conscious action rather than an emotional feeling. This is God’s love.
- Storge: family love, the affectionate bond that develops naturally between parents and children, and brothers and sisters.
The reason we cannot agapē the world is because that would be idolatry (because agapē is God’s love). Idolatry, the worship of something other than God, this is at the root of all sin because sin seeks to steal glory from God, the only one who is worthy of and due our glory, and take that glory for our self.
“You are worthy, O Lord, To receive glory and honor and power; For YOU CREATED ALL THINGS, And by Your will they exist and were created.” (Rev. 4:11)
Your Personal Pastor -Papa…