God Is Love Defined

Hi there,

In February 1981, to the great excitement of the nation, the then Prince of Wales and 19-year-old Lady Diana Spencer famously gave an interview to announce their engagement at Buckingham Palace.

When asked if they were "in love," Diana giggled out a coy "Of course," while Charles, characteristically thinking out loud, ruminated, "Whatever 'in love' means."

A reply that launched a thousand speculations and portended the outcome of the ultimately doomed relationship. (If you're in the market for some curled toes this morning, you can watch the interview here.)

What is "love?"

Working through the passages in this season of Bible Copy Club, I have seen clearly how "love" doesn't simply define God. God defines "love."

Before, I misread the statement "God is love" to mean that God's nature could be understood through my human understanding of what "love" means. But as Prince Charles helpfully pointed out, we don't really know what love means at least not in secular terms.

Outside of God, there is no love. Love is a gift of God. He is the definition of love and the definer of what love is. Human "love" reflects God's love, but it is fundamentally distinct due to its limitations, conditions, and imperfections compared to the boundless, unconditional, and divine nature of God's love.

God's love differs in character, not just expression. Through it, we can clearly see who He is.

God's love is...

Unchanging: God's love is perfect, unchanging, and eternal. Human love, while capable of great depth and commitment, is imperfect and subject to change based on circumstances and emotions.

Sacrificial: God demonstrates His love through sacrificial actions, such as sending Jesus Christ to die for our salvation.

Transcendent: God's love reaches every individual, regardless of time or place.

Purposeful: God's love is central to His divine plan for redemption and reconciliation. Restoring a relationship between humanity and Himself.

Unconditional: Extending to all people regardless of their actions or worthiness. In contrast, human love often comes with conditions and expectations.

God's love is the gift that keeps on giving. Offering hope, reassurance, and restoration for all people. Remarkably, He has invited us to share in this gift by sharing this gift with others.

"Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God."

1 John 4:7

Have a great Sunday.

BCC returns tomorrow for the last week of this season.

Andy

God's Word in Your Hand

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