The Instruction Of Agape – 3

Apostle Grace Lubega

1 John 2:5(KJV); But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him.”

In John 21:15-17, our Lord twice asked Peter whether Peter loved him. The word for love that the master used was ‘agapé.’ For each of those times, Peter said he loved him.

However, the word for love used in reference to Peter’s answers was ‘Phileo.’ The third and last time, the Lord asked Peter, ‘Do you
Phileo me?’ and Peter responded, “Yes, I Phileo thee.”

By insisting on whether Peter ‘agapéd’ him, the Lord wanted to issue an instruction based on agape. Unfortunately, Peter did not understand and as such only received an instruction based on Phileo which was ‘feed my sheep.’

What then is the instruction of a man who understands agape?

John the man who understood agape received the instruction.

In our theme scripture, the Bible says, “Whoso keepeth His word, in him verily is the love of God perfected.”

A man who is perfected in the love [agapé] of God keeps His word while a man who only understands Phileo keeps His sheep because Phileo concerns brotherly love.

In this, God is not watering down the responsibility of loving one another or of reaching out for souls in love.

However, He knows that when you understand agapé, Phileo becomes obvious. Loving the brethren and winning souls is easier when you embrace agapé.

You might win souls and not esteem His word; that is not agapé.

You might take care of your fellow brethren and take the Word for granted, that is not agapé

When you understand agapé, the Word of God becomes more necessary than food.

When you understand agapé, your responses to all manner of situations are framed around the Word of God.

When you understand agapé, the Word takes priority in everything you do. You give it the attention it deserves; you study it; think on it and act on it.
Glory to God.

FURTHER STUDY: Job 23:12, John 14:21-23

GOLDEN NUGGET:

When you understand agapé, the Word becomes more necessary than food. When you understand agapé, your responses to all manner of situations are framed around the Word of God. When you understand agapé, the Word takes priority in everything you do. You give it the attention it deserves; you study it; think on it and act on it.

PRAYER: Loving Father, thank you for this knowledge. I receive the instruction of agapé and honour your Word above all else. I know that you have exalted your Word above your very name. I give it the honour and attention that it is due. In Jesus’ name, Amen.