JON ALLEN

How is it that one of the deepest and most significant words in our language has become a chameleon, taking on whatever meaning might be necessary at the time. People even say you can "make love"... not sure exactly how that happens, but I would imagine the recipe includes bacon and Reeses Pieces. How is it that I can say I love my wife and moments later say I love the snap function on Windows 7? Is it the same thing?

It is unfortunate that we only have one word for Love in the English language because it can mean so many different things. In Greek there are three words for love... Agape, Philia, and Eros. Each of these words describes a different kind of love. Agape is unconditional love, like I have for my father (and some would say chicken wings as well). Philia love is brotherly love, like Eagles' fans have for Cowboys fans. Eros love is sexual love, like I have for my wife.

In Matthew 22 Jesus tells us that the greatest commandment is to LOVE the Lord with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. What kind of love is Jesus talking about? Philia, Eros or Agape? You guessed it... Agape. We should love God unconditionally and sacrificially. I should love God regardless of the circumstance I am in and I should be willing to give up anything He asks me to give up.

Do you mean it when you say you LOVE God? Or are you just saying it?