Love as a word has many definitions for most people. Thanks to the original Greek texts of our Bible, we know that there are different levels of love depending on the situation. The most popular words in the Greek for "love" are philia, eros, and agape. Just a quick glance at each word is all you need to know about it's meaning.
"Philia", where we get the word "Philadelphia", is "brotherly love". Now I know that Cowboys fans have a hard time with that one don't we? Next, the word "Eros" is where we get the word "Erotic" with it's connotations of sexuality and sensuality. Finally, there's "Agape" which is the love that God has for his children. There is much confusion in the world today regarding love. This is because many people are seeking fulfillment and happiness in the wrong love.
Our world, especially in our western culture, has chosen to focus on "Eros" when it comes to love. Much like the ancient cities of Ephesus and Corinth where the apostle Paul planted churches, our culture is sex-saturated. The churches in these cities were heavily influenced by their culture instead of being counter to the culture. The marketeers of our business world are not stupid when it comes to selling their products. They know that sex sells to the masses. Unfortunately, this is because so many pursue fulfillment in Eros.
Philia is a wonderful type of love. It is simply the love we have for our friends and family. It's the kind of love that motivates us to kindness to one another. Our world could use a whole lot more of it! So could our churches!
Finally, there 's Agape. This is a level of love that God has for us. It is Agape that motivated Christ to leave a holy heaven and walk among a people that by nature hated Him. It was Agape that enable Him to live a life of submission to the Father to the point of death on a cross! It was the "Agape" of Christ that made it possible for us to be forgiven and enter the eternal presence of God!
The true mark of Agape is found in the laying down of one's life. Christ's sacrifice proved His love. What evidence of Agape is in your life? - by Rob Wren - Minister of Worship -Harmony Baptist Church
Hear Pastor Grey's Easter Message on God's Love
HARMONY NEWS!!!
Kid’s Choir
Beginning March 30th in Jr. Church, our newly formed Kid’s Choir will begin work on a special Mother’s Day performance! Mark your calendars for this very special day!
Interactive Bible Studies
We invite all ladies to join us each Wednesday night at 7:00 pm as we continue
through the series “A Heart Like His” by Beth Moore.
Illuminate Youth - Mission Arlington - Wednesday
We will meet at the building at 5:30pm so we can work from 6-7pm. Parents can pick up their teen at the church building between 8-8:15pm. Bring $5.00 for food.
Illuminate Youth - Ranger game - Dollar Hot Dog Night - April 9
We will meet at the building at 6:15pm and be back by 10:30pm.
Cost is $5 for ticket and transportation. Tickets are limited, see Mike.
Missions for Kids
Some of our college students are serving
this summer in Guatemala on a mission trip.
They will be working in an orphanage and
a youth soccer camp. YOU CAN HELP!!
Come by the information desk today to
pick up a list of donation items. All
donations can be dropped of at the
OPERATION KIDSTREET GUATEMALA
drop box located by the nursery.
We will be receiving donations from
April 6th to May 4th.
