Unconditional Love – Share It, Experience It

As I have studied of Ephesians 5:1-7, I noticed a certain theme that each Christian should embrace within their relationship with Christ and others.  “Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. But among you, there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed because these are improper for God’s holy people. Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a person is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. Therefore do not be partners with them” (Ephesians 1-7)  I want us to focus on the word “love” that is portrayed for God and man in this verse. “Love” in the Greek, has several meanings, but we shall only unpack two; “Eros and Agape”. First, Eros is a conditional type of love, it is where we get our English word, “Erotica” Now as soon a you heard that word, I am sure you, like I, thought of “sex” but, Eros was more than that to the Greeks, it was a conditional love. There are conditions that I personally place on this kind of love. Eros was a selfish kind of love. I love G. Harvey artwork it gives me great pleasure, I love classical music when I meditate and the list goes on. Eros is temporary, it does not last. I love  “What type of love that best represents their school, community, and even church, their answer 100% was “Eros” (Dr. Chap Clark, Teens and Sex 2012). 

In contrast, “Agape” love is a “giving” the kind of love for a person., it is unconditional, and it expects nothing it return. “Agape” love in a lasting love that endures all things. The Apostle Paul penned the words which have  become known as the “Love Chapter”. “If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but does not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing” (1 Corinthians 13:1-3 NIV). “Agape” love is a committed lasting love in a relationship that both people share without expecting love in return but if both man and wife have this love for each they are empowered sexually, emotionally and spirituality. They are one!

I suggest an exercise with your spouse. Ask them “Why do you say, I love you?” Do not interrupt and listen. Then you share why you say “I love you” and finally together read aloud, 1 Thessalonians (4:3-8 NIV) and discuss how your relationship compares. Communication is one of the key issues that causes issues within relationships. The time you spend this week with your spouse will never come again, don’t let it pass without making memories.

Eddie has a B.A. in Christian Counseling. He holds a Certification from the American Association of Christian Counseling in Pastoral Counseling and is currently pursuing his Masters Degree. For questions or comments  or prayers please contact him at eddieturner2502@gmail.com