How Many Times Is "Love" Mentioned in the Bible?

Jan 11,2025 00:00

How Many Times Is "Love" Mentioned in the Bible?

Love is one of the central themes in the Bible, with over 500 mentions of the word "love" in both the Old and New Testaments. The Bible speaks extensively about the love of God for humanity, the love believers are called to have for one another, and the importance of love in following God's commandments. In various forms, love is depicted as the foundation of the Christian faith, shaping relationships and guiding believers in their walk with God.

Types of Love in the Bible

The Bible mentions several types of love, each with a unique significance:

  • Agape Love: This is the unconditional, sacrificial love that God shows toward humanity and that believers are called to exhibit toward others. In John 3:16, it is written, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
  • Phileo Love: This type of love refers to brotherly affection or friendship. It is the love seen between close friends or companions. Jesus exemplified phileo love when He showed deep affection for His disciples (John 15:13-15).
  • Eros Love: Although not frequently mentioned in the Bible, eros refers to romantic or sexual love, and the Song of Solomon is a book that celebrates this kind of love (Song of Solomon 1:2).
  • Storge Love: This love refers to familial love, such as the bond between parents and children. While this type of love is not explicitly named in the New Testament, it is demonstrated throughout the Bible (Romans 12:10).

The Greatest Commandment: Love

Jesus emphasized love as the greatest commandment in the Bible. In Matthew 22:37-39, Jesus commands, "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself." Jesus made it clear that love for God and for others is central to the Christian faith (1 John 4:7-8).

Conclusion

Love is mentioned over 500 times in the Bible, highlighting its importance as a central theme of the Christian faith. From God's love for humanity to the call for believers to love one another, the Bible teaches that love is the greatest commandment and the foundation of true discipleship (1 Corinthians 13:13).

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