Finally, AGAPE relationships are founded in “Hope.” There is an innate optimism at the heart of the Christian faith, rooted not in our high view of man or in a naïve confidence in human progress but in a deep trust that God has his purposes and is working “for the good of those who love [...]

AGAPE relationships are “Compassionate” relationships. Compassion: to feel with and for another; empathy; to be aware of and want to alleviate the sufferings of another; to identify closely with another’s condition; a concern for others’ needs without regard to merit. The willingness to “put yourself in another’s shoes,” to “see from their perspective,” and to [...]

A third aspect of AGAPE relationships involves “Peace.” One of the principle marks of fallen relationships is a lack of peace. Alienation, separation, hatred, conflict, anger, lies, malice, and disrespect are characteristic of relationships where AGAPE does not reign. On the other hand, relationships that have been transformed by AGAPE are characterized by peace, harmony, [...]

The second characteristic of AGAPE love involves “Meekness.” The word “Meek” is a difficult one for us. We don’t admire the meek, we feel sorry for them. But “meekness”—properly understood—is an essential Christian virtue and an important component of AGAPE love. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. (Mt 5:5) Clothe yourselves [...]

We begin our exploration of AGAPE by talking about “Godliness.” Christian relationships (governed by AGAPE) are first and foremost righteous relationships. Holiness, purity, goodness, obedience, decency, and integrity are foundational to our transformed associations with God and others. Remember that—from the beginning—it was sin that caused all the trouble in this world and in our [...]

You know what an acrostic is: a form of “word play” in which the letters of one word form the first letters of a group of words. Perhaps the most famous acrostic in history was formed from the letters of the Greek word for “fish”: icthus. Jesus Christ God’s (“th” in Greek is formed with [...]

There is no more fundamental affirmation in the Christian faith than the statement: “God is love.” Love is at the very core of God’s character. It constitutes his defining attribute. Along with holiness, love forms the central hub of God’s being. God is love. (1Jn 4:8, 16) The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious [...]