Bible Study

Title: Unconditional Love
Date: Oct 5, 2005
Topic(s): Love
Scripture: Galatians 6:22-26

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The word "love" is used today in many different ways. You might say, "I love spaghetti" meaning you really like this particular food. You also might say, "I love the cute guy/girl in my math class" meaning you're infatuated with this person.

The Bible, however, calls us to an even greater love--an unconditional love. The word the Greeks used for this type of love is agape. This means loving with no strings attached. But is it really possible to love like that? The Bible shows us how.

What Does God Say?

The apostle Paul wrote

"But when the Holy Spirit controls our lives, he will produce this kind of fruit in us: love [agape], joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Here there is no conflict with the law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. If we are living now by the Holy Spirit, let us follow the Holy Spirit's leading in every part of our lives. Let us not become conceited, or irritate one another, or be jealous of one another" (Galatians 5:22-26, NLT).

• Who produces this unconditional love in our lives?
• Notice that "love" is listed first. Why do you think Paul may have listed it first?
• Have you ever been loved unconditionally? Write a brief paragraph about this experience.

My Thoughts

Unconditional love means loving with no "ifs" involved. It's not: "I'll love you if you make me happy," or "I'll love you if you meet my needs." In light of that, are you loving unconditionally? What restrictions or conditions might you be placing on your love?

My Part

Think of a person you should love unconditionally, perhaps a parent, spouse or friend. List anything that makes you angry at that person (he/she is always late, insensitive to your feelings, doesn't clean the house, etc.). Take that list and burn it as a symbol of releasing that person from these "conditions." Ask the Holy Spirit to produce an unconditional love in your heart for that person.

Additional Scripture to read: Matthew 5:43-48; Romans 13:8-10; 1 Corinthians 13

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