1 Corinthians 13:4-7 is often referred to as the "Love Chapter," and it beautifully describes the qualities of true love. Here's the passage for context:

"Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things."

The Greeks had a nuanced understanding of love, and they used four distinct words to describe different types of love. Here are the four Greek words for love and their meanings:

1. Agape (ἀγάπη):
   • Definition: Agape is often considered the highest form of love, characterized by selfless, unconditional love. It is love that is given freely without expecting anything in return.
   • Context: Agape is often used to describe God's love for humanity and the love that believers are encouraged to show toward one another. It is the kind of love that is patient, kind, and sacrificial.
   • Example: The love demonstrated by Jesus Christ on the cross, sacrificing Himself for the salvation of humanity, is an example of agape love.
2. Eros (ἔρως):
   • Definition: Eros is romantic or passionate love. It is characterized by physical attraction and desire. Eros is often associated with the excitement and intensity of falling in love.
   • Context: Eros is often used to describe the romantic and physical aspects of a relationship between two people. It is the love that draws individuals toward one another.
   • Example: The love between a couple who are deeply attracted to each other and share a passionate connection is an example of eros.
3. Philia (φιλία):
   • Definition: Philia is the love between friends or equals. It is characterized by mutual respect, loyalty, and companionship. Philia is often described as brotherly love.
   • Context: Philia is used to describe the deep bond and affection that exists between close friends. It is the love that is built on shared experiences and mutual support.
   • Example: The strong friendship and camaraderie between two best friends who support and care for each other through thick and thin is an example of philia.
4. Storge (στοργή):
   • Definition: Storge is the love between family members, particularly the natural affection between parents and children. It is characterized by familiarity, comfort, and a sense of belonging.
   • Context: Storge is used to describe the love that exists within families. It is the love that parents have for their children and vice versa, as well as the affection between siblings.

The renewal of self in this passage can be seen in the transformative power of love and how embodying these qualities can lead to a renewed life and relationships:

1. Patience and Kindness: Embracing patience and kindness can renew our interactions with others, fostering a more compassionate and understanding environment.
2. Humility: Avoiding envy, boasting, arrogance, and rudeness can renew our hearts, making us humbler and more approachable.
3. Selflessness: Not insisting on our own way and letting go of irritability and resentment can renew our relationships, promoting harmony and peace.
4. Truth and Integrity: Rejoicing in the truth and not in wrongdoing can renew our moral compass, aligning our actions with integrity and righteousness.
5. Resilience: Love that bears, believes, hopes, and endures all things can renew our strength and perseverance, allowing us to overcome challenges and remain steadfast in our commitments.

By embodying the qualities described in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, we can experience a profound renewal in our hearts, minds, and relationships, ultimately reflecting the true nature of love that God desires for us.

• Example: The nurturing and protective love that a mother has for her child is an example of storge.

These four types of love capture the various dimensions of human relationships and emotions. Understanding the distinctions between them can help us appreciate the richness and complexity of love in its many forms.

Stay strong and be blessed.