What is phileo love?

Answer  
  

The Bible speaks of two types of love: *phileo* and [*agape*](agape-love.html). Both are Greek terms and appear at different points throughout Scripture. The Greek language also had terms for two other types of love, [*eros*](eros-love.html) and [*storge*](storge-love.html), which do not expressly appear in the Bible.  
  

To better understand *phileo* love, we need to take a brief look at the other types of love. *Storge* is an affectionate love, the type of love one might have for family or a spouse. It is a naturally occurring, unforced type of love. Some examples of *storge* love can be found in the stories of Noah, Jacob, and siblings Mary, Martha, and Lazarus.  
  

As its name indicates, *eros* is passionate or sexual love (*eros* is the source of the English word *erotic*). While *eros* is important within a marriage relationship and is created by God (see Song of Solomon), it can also be abused or mistaken for *storge* love. The Bible is clear that sexual immorality (out\-of\-control *eros*) is a sin (1 Corinthians 6:18; 1 Thessalonians 4:3\).  
  

*Agape* speaks of the most powerful, noblest type of love: sacrificial love. *Agape* love is more than a feeling—it is an act of the will. This is the love that God has for His people and that prompted the sacrifice of His only Son, Jesus, for our sins. Jesus was *agape* love personified. Christians are to love one another with *agape* love, as seen in Jesus’ [Parable of the Good Samaritan](parable-Good-Samaritan.html) (Luke 10:25\-37\).  
  

Finally, we have *phileo* love. *Philia* refers to brotherly love and is most often exhibited in a close friendship. Best friends will display this generous and affectionate love for each other as each seeks to make the other happy. The Scriptural account of David and Jonathan is an excellent illustration of *phileo* love: “After David had finished talking with Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself. . . . And Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself” (1 Samuel 18:1\-3\).  
  

Since *phileo* love involves feelings of warmth and affection toward another person, we do not have *phileo* love toward our enemies. However, God commands us to have *agape* love toward everyone. This includes those whose personalities clash with ours, those who hurt us and treat us badly, and even those who are hostile toward our faith (Luke 6:28; Matthew 5:44\). In time, as we follow God’s example of *agape* love for our enemies, we may even begin to experience *phileo* love for some of them as we start to see them through God’s eyes.  
  

