October 17, 2026 · Paul Joseph

A Whole New Kind of Love

The Greek language had several words for love. The New Testament reaches for one in particular: agape.

Agape is not a warm feeling that comes and goes. It is a decision to give yourself for another person's good, whether or not they deserve it, and whether or not you feel like it.

Jesus did not just talk about it. "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another" (John 13:34-35).

Notice what He says the world will use to recognize His followers. It is not our arguments or our worship style. It is love, the kind that costs something.

Ordinary affection loves those who love back. Agape forgives the person who did not apologize. It serves without being thanked. It gives and shares, which is why Christianity is more than a good set of morals. It is a way of living.

Here is a simple test for this week. Think of one person who is hard to love, and do one practical, specific thing for them. Don't wait to feel loving first. The feeling often follows the decision.

When you love like this, you are winning.

Love like this is learned over time, and that is what Jesus Boot Camp is for. Start the discipleship course. It's free at jesusbootcamp.org/join.

Paul Joseph

The class that goes with this post: Class 18 — A Whole New Kind Of Love