There are four different Greek words which are translated "love".

Below is a brief definition of such.

 

1) AGAPE (ah gah pay)  A real concern for all. (I love you in spite of your doing nothing, or even if you are unlovely ---- Such as the thief, rapist, or murderer). This is the #1 Fruit of the Holy Spirit in the life of the Christian. People who are very unforgiving, jealous, and hateful are amazed at how God works through them, following their conversion. It is this type of love that directs one to pray for the lost, even if they are unknown personally.

 

2) PHILIA (fih lee ah) - A love that is filled with friendship. This is that type which two youth or adults have toward one another. They recreate together, because they enjoy one another's friendship. This is the root from which the city of "Philadelphia" is derived (City Of Brotherly Love). This person says, "I love you because you are fun to be with".

 

3) STORGE (stor gay) - A love that is involved with devotion. It is the type of love one has for a family member or for his country (Patriotism).I love you because you are lovable in my sight. (You provide me with a family atmosphere and a sense of belonging). One has this type of love even if he does not always agree.

 

4) EROS (eh roce) - This is a type of love, which is a passionate sexual love. This person would describe it as loving another because the other makes them happy in a physical sexual sense. "Eros" (Cupid) was the God Of Love in Greek Mythology God, the Creator of the earth, has limited this kind of love to those within the bounds of marriage.

 

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