Welcome to the first week of our course. This week, we will be laying the groundwork for understanding Christian relationships and empathy. We will be exploring the concept of love from a biblical perspective, using scripture to guide our understanding and provide a roadmap for navigating these complex feelings and situations.
Love is a term that is often used in many different contexts. You might say you love your family, your friends, or even your favorite food. But what does it mean to be 'in love', especially in the context of a romantic relationship?
The Bible provides guidance on understanding love in different contexts. In the context of romantic love, it is important to understand that love is not just a feeling, but a commitment and a choice.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7 provides a description of what love truly is: 'Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.'
This passage is often used to describe the kind of love that should exist in a romantic relationship. It emphasizes that love is more than just a feeling; it's an action. It's about being patient, kind, humble, respectful, selfless, forgiving, truthful, protective, trusting, hopeful, and persevering.
When a person says 'I love you' to a family member, they are expressing a deep affection and commitment that is often unconditional and enduring. When a person says 'I love you' in a romantic context, they are expressing a similar deep affection and commitment, but it also involves a choice to love the other person in the way described in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7.
So, when you are trying to understand if you are 'in love' in a romantic sense, reflect on these qualities of love. Are you willing to be patient and kind with your partner? Are you committed to not being envious or boastful? Are you willing to always protect, always trust, always hope, and always persevere? If the answer is yes, then you may be 'in love'. But it's also important to remember that love is a journey, not a destination. It takes time to fully understand and embody these qualities of love.
Mini Challenges: