The 5 Types of Love: Building Stronger Relationships with Godly Wisdom
- Stonepoint Community Church
- Feb 8
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 12
Relationships can be challenging, especially when we don’t fully understand the different types of love that influence how we connect with others. In this sermon, we explored five key types of love based on biblical principles, which help us form healthy, God-centered relationships. Let’s dive in:
Agape Love – The Unconditional Love ❤️
This is the highest form of love—God’s love for us. It’s not based on emotions, actions, or circumstances. Agape love is sacrificial, unconditional, and unwavering. It’s the love that says, “I choose to love you, no matter what.”
Key Scripture: “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” – John 3:16
How to Apply: Agape love means choosing to love even when it’s difficult. In your relationships:
Forgive quickly, even when it’s hard.
Show patience and kindness, without expecting something in return.
Focus on character over emotions—don’t let temporary feelings determine permanent decisions.
Philia Love – The Friendship Bond 🤝
Also known as brotherly love, Philia is about deep friendship, trust, and mutual respect. It’s the type of love that builds strong, lasting bonds based on shared values and life experiences.
Key Scripture: “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion hath light with darkness?” – 2 Corinthians 6:14
How to Apply: Philia love is the foundation of strong relationships, even in romance.
Cultivate friendships before jumping into romantic commitments.
Surround yourself with people who uplift your faith and values.
In dating, ask: Do we genuinely enjoy each other’s company beyond physical attraction?
Storge Love – The Familial Connection 👨👩👧
Storge is the natural love we feel for family—parents, siblings, and even close friends who become like family. It’s built on familiarity, loyalty, and deep-rooted affection.
Key Scripture: “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” – Genesis 2:24
How to Apply: Storge love is about building emotional closeness through shared experiences.
Prioritize quality time with your loved ones.
Be consistent in showing affection—small gestures matter.
In relationships, focus on creating memories that deepen emotional bonds over time.
Eros Love – The Romantic, Passionate Love ❤️🔥
Eros is where physical attraction and romantic desire come into play. Contrary to popular belief, Eros isn’t inherently negative—it’s God-designed. However, it must be guided by commitment and respect, not just fleeting passion.
Key Scripture: “They were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed.” – Genesis 2:25
How to Apply: Eros love should be protected within marriage, where it thrives in a healthy way.
Don’t rush physical intimacy—build emotional and spiritual connections first.
Guard your heart and mind against lust-driven decisions.
Set clear boundaries in dating to honor God and each other.
Thelo Love – The Self-Love 💕
Thelo refers to self-love, self-desire, or will. It’s about understanding your own value, having a healthy self-image, and making intentional choices based on self-awareness.
Key Scripture: “And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” – Mark 12:30-31
How to Apply: Healthy relationships start with knowing your worth in Christ.
Spend time with God to understand your identity in Him.
Set boundaries that protect your emotional and spiritual health.
Don’t settle for relationships that don’t honor your value—love yourself enough to wait for God’s best.
Why Understanding These Types of Love Matters
When relationships struggle, it’s often because people confuse one type of love for another. For example:
Starting with Eros (physical attraction) without Agape (unconditional love) leads to shallow, fragile connections.
Relying solely on Philia (friendship) without Storge (emotional closeness) creates distant partnerships.
Neglecting Thelo (self-love) causes insecurity, leading people to seek validation from others.
Healthy relationships balance all five types of love. They grow over time, with intentional effort and a foundation rooted in God’s design.
Final Thoughts 💭
If you’re single, dating, or married—take a moment to reflect:
Are my relationships rooted in Agape love?
Am I choosing love daily, beyond just feelings?
Do I foster friendships that honor God and uplift my spirit?
Remember: You are a gift. The right person will recognize your worth—not just for who you are today, but for who you’re becoming in Christ. ♥️
📢 Join us Feb 16th, 2025 for “The Elephant in the Bedroom: ELLIE – An Exposé” 🐘🎞️—a powerful relationship series tackling the unspoken issues in marriage and intimacy!