Definition and Etymology
Agape love is a term derived from the Greek word "agapē," which is used in the New Testament to describe a selfless, sacrificial, unconditional love. Unlike other forms of love, such as "philia" (brotherly love) or "eros" (romantic love), agape is characterized by its divine nature and is often associated with the love of God for humanity and the love that believers are called to exhibit towards God and others.

Biblical Context
Agape love is a central theme in the New Testament and is most vividly illustrated in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. It is the highest form of love, transcending all other types of affection and commitment. The Apostle Paul provides a profound exposition of agape love in 1 Corinthians 13, often referred to as the "Love Chapter." Here, Paul describes love as patient, kind, and devoid of envy, boasting, or pride (1 Corinthians 13:4). He emphasizes that love "bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things" (1 Corinthians 13:7).

Divine Love
Agape is the love that God demonstrates towards humanity. John 3:16 declares, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." This sacrificial love is further exemplified in Romans 5:8 , which states, "But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Agape love is thus seen as the foundation of God's redemptive plan for mankind.

Human Expression of Agape
Believers are called to emulate agape love in their relationships with others. Jesus commands His followers to "love your neighbor as yourself" (Matthew 22:39) and to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" (Matthew 5:44). This love is not based on feelings or emotions but is an act of the will, a deliberate choice to seek the welfare of others.

The Apostle John underscores the importance of agape love among believers, stating, "Beloved, let us love one another, because love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God" (1 John 4:7). He further asserts that "whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love" (1 John 4:8).

Characteristics and Attributes
Agape love is marked by its enduring and unchanging nature. It is not contingent upon the worthiness of its object but is freely given. This love is forgiving, as seen in Ephesians 4:32 : "Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you." It is also humble and selfless, as believers are encouraged to "do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves" (Philippians 2:3).

The Role of the Holy Spirit
The ability to love with agape love is empowered by the Holy Spirit. Romans 5:5 reveals that "God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us." The fruit of the Spirit, as listed in Galatians 5:22-23, begins with love, indicating that agape is a primary evidence of the Spirit's work in a believer's life.

Conclusion
Agape love is the essence of Christian ethics and the hallmark of true discipleship. It is the love that reflects the character of God and fulfills the law, as stated in Romans 13:10 : "Love does no wrong to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law." Through agape, believers are called to manifest the love of Christ in a world in need of divine compassion and grace.