When you ask, "What is love?" the answers often focus on feelings, relationships, or acts of kindness. But love, as defined by the Bible, is far deeper. It transcends human understanding and finds its ultimate expression in God’s actions toward humanity. The life and sacrifice of Jesus Christ demonstrate the very essence of love—a love so profound it transforms lives and redefines eternity.

Defining Love Through Scripture

The Bible provides multiple perspectives on love. In Greek, there are several words for love:

• Eros represents romantic or physical love.
• Philia denotes friendship and companionship.
• Storge describes familial affection, like that between a parent and child.

Yet, the highest form of love—agape—is the focus of John’s teaching in 1 John 4:9:

"In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him."

Agape love is sacrificial and unconditional. It is God’s deep commitment to His creation, expressed in ways far beyond human expectations. This isn’t a love that falters or depends on merit. It is steadfast, selfless, and enduring.

The Christmas Story is a Love Story

At Christmas, we often focus on traditions and celebrations. But the heart of the holiday lies in God’s act of love. The Creator of the universe, infinite and holy, chose to step into the world as a human being. He didn’t come with fanfare or privilege; He arrived humbly, born in a manger.

This was no ordinary birth. Jesus’ arrival was the fulfillment of God’s plan to reconcile humanity to Himself. As John 3:16 famously declares:

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life."

Jesus didn’t come because humanity earned it. Romans 5:8 reminds us: “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

God’s love isn’t conditional or reactive. He loved us even when we were lost in sin, and His plan of redemption wasn’t an afterthought—it was the centerpiece of His love for us.

The Virgin Birth: A Foundation of God’s Plan

One detail often overlooked in the Christmas story is the importance of the virgin birth. This miraculous event wasn’t a symbolic flourish; it was essential to Jesus’ role as the Savior. Being born of a virgin ensured that Jesus was both fully God and fully man, untainted by the inherited sin of Adam.

Without the virgin birth, Jesus couldn’t be the perfect, sinless sacrifice humanity needed. This unique conception and birth were God’s way of ensuring the Savior’s divine nature and human experience. The virgin birth reinforces God’s meticulous plan to redeem His people through love.

Living Through Christ’s Love

John’s declaration that we “might live through him” (1 John 4:9) is both an invitation and a challenge. To live through Christ means more than acknowledging His existence; it calls for a transformation of our entire being. This transformation manifests in three key ways:

• Reflecting His Love: When we embrace Christ’s love, it compels us to share it with others. This love isn’t just an emotion—it’s an action. We’re called to love sacrificially, just as Christ did.
• Becoming His Ambassadors: As followers of Christ, we represent Him to the world. Our lives should be a testament to His grace, mercy, and love.
• Embracing New Life: Living through Christ means shedding the old, sinful nature and walking in the newness of life He offers.

This call to action is grounded in the understanding that God’s love overcame sin, death, and separation. It empowers us to live boldly, knowing we are deeply loved by our Creator.

The Cost and Triumph of Love

God’s love wasn’t just expressed in Jesus’ birth; it culminated in His death and resurrection. Jesus didn’t just live for us—He died for us. His mission was always tied to the cross. Hebrews 12:2 reveals:

"For the joy that was set before him, [He] endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God."

Jesus willingly endured suffering, rejection, and death because of His love for humanity. This sacrificial love wasn’t easy or convenient, but it was necessary to bridge the gap between a holy God and sinful humanity.

Second Corinthians 5:21 encapsulates the depth of this love: “For our sake, he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” Jesus bore the weight of our sins so that we could be reconciled to God. This act of love offers us hope, redemption, and the promise of eternal life.

Responding to God’s Love

When you grasp the depth of God’s love, it changes everything. The Apostle John, often called “the disciple Jesus loved,” provides a unique perspective on this truth. He frequently referred to himself as the one loved by Jesus—not as a boast, but as a profound realization of God’s grace.

This understanding should shape our response:

• Acknowledge Our Need: Recognize that without Christ, we are lost in sin and separated from God.
• Accept His Love: Believe in Jesus’ sacrificial work and trust Him as Savior.
• Share His Love: Actively spread the message of the Gospel through words and deeds.

What Does This Mean for Us Today?

God’s love isn’t just a theological concept; it’s a reality that impacts every aspect of our lives. It’s the foundation of our faith, the reason for our hope, and the source of our joy. This love empowers us to face life’s challenges, love others selflessly, and live with purpose.

Jesus’ love isn’t distant or abstract. It’s personal and transformative. When we embrace it, we become part of a story far greater than ourselves—a story of redemption, grace, and eternal life.

The Final Answer: What is Love?

Love is Christ’s conquest for your eternity. It’s God stepping into history, taking on flesh, and bearing the weight of the world’s sin. It’s a love that redeems, restores, and renews. It’s a love that invites you to live a transformed life, sharing the hope and joy of the Gospel with others.

As you reflect on this truth, let it inspire gratitude, humility, and a renewed commitment to live for Christ. When you fully embrace the reality of being loved by God, you’ll never be the same.