### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **agapáō**, represented by `{{G25}}`, is a verb meaning **to love (in a social or moral sense)**. It appears **147 times** across **109 unique verses**, establishing it as a central concept in the New Testament. The base definition suggests comparing it with `{{G5368}}` philéō, indicating a love that often involves deliberate will and principle rather than just personal affection.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G25}}` defines the very nature of God, who so **loved** the world that He gave His Son [[John 3:16]]. This love is not abstract but active, demonstrated by Christ who **loved** the church and gave himself for it [[Ephesians 5:25]]. Consequently, humans are commanded to **love** God with all their heart, soul, and mind [[Matthew 22:37]] and to **love** one another [[John 13:34]]. This love is presented as the tangible proof of one's relationship with God, as seen in the command, "If ye **love** me, keep my commandments" [[John 14:15]]. It also extends to a radical call to **love** one's enemies [[Matthew 5:44]] and a stern warning not to **love** the world [[1 John 2:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of this divine and moral love:
* `{{G26}}` **agápē** (love, i.e. affection or benevolence; specially (plural) a love-feast): As the noun form, it is the substance of the action. Scripture states that God *is* **love** `{{G26}}`, and therefore, everyone that **loveth** `{{G25}}` is born of God [[1 [[John 4:7]]-8]].
* `{{G27}}` **agapētós** (beloved): This adjective describes those who are the object of `{{G25}}` love. Believers are referred to as "**beloved**" and are instructed to **love** one another as God has **loved** them [[1 John 4:11]].
* `{{G5368}}` **philéō** (to be a friend to (fond of (an individual or an object)), i.e. have affection for): This term denotes personal attachment and feeling. The distinction is highlighted when Jesus asks Peter if he **loves** `{{G25}}` him, and Peter replies using the more personal term, "I **love** `{{G5368}}` thee" [[John 21:15]].
* `{{G3404}}` **miséō** (to detest (especially to persecute); by extension, to love less): This word serves as the direct opposite of `{{G25}}`. Scripture often presents a choice between the two, such as hating one master and **loving** the other [[Matthew 6:24]] or **loving** righteousness and hating iniquity [[Hebrews 1:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G25}}` is immense, defining the core of the relationship between God and humanity.
* **Divine Initiative:** The concept of **agapáō** love originates with God. It is not a human response but a divine action bestowed upon humanity first: "We **love** him, because he first **loved** us" [[1 John 4:19]]. This is reinforced in [[1 John 4:10]].
* **The Fulfillment of the Law:** The command to **love** `{{G25}}` one's neighbor is presented as the summation of all other commandments. He that **loveth** another hath fulfilled the law [[Romans 13:8-9]].
* **The Evidence of Salvation:** To **love** God and the brethren is a sign of being born of God and knowing Him. Conversely, a lack of this love indicates a separation from God [[1 [[John 4:7]]-8]] and abiding in death [[1 John 3:14]].
* **A Sacrificial Action:** This love is not passive but is defined by sacrifice. Christ **loved** us and gave himself for us [[Ephesians 5:2]], and believers are called to not **love** their lives unto the death [[Revelation 12:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G25}}` is far more than a simple emotion. It represents a divine, principled, and active love that is the cornerstone of Christian theology. It is the very character of God, the highest command given to humanity, the evidence of true faith, and the fulfillment of the law. This love stands in stark contrast to love for the world and requires a deliberate choice to honor God and care for others, even one's enemies.
TRV