Eros was a form of love so distorted by Greek culture that the New Testament authors refused to use the word. But the concept is still God’s, and there’s an entire book in the Bible to prove it.
Talking Points:
- Eros love is physical intimacy between a husband and wife in marriage. It’s a gift from God. Genesis 2:18,24; Proverbs 5:18-19; Song of Songs 4:9-10
- Eros intensifies with selflessness (agape love) and is diminished by selfishness. Good Eros takes work. Song of Songs 7:10
- Today’s culture has a distorted view of Eros. God’s message is to “not awaken love until the time is right”. Song of Songs 2:7, 1 Corinthians 6:18
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- (Watch this video for a quick overview of the book.) What’s your familiarity with the Song of Songs? Why do you think it’s worthy of being included in the Bible? How has our culture diminished eros love?
- Read Proverbs 5:18-19. How does this passage reveal how God wants the sexual relationship to look between a husband and wife?
- Read Song of Songs 6:4,8-9 and Song of Songs 7:1-6,10. How does eros love tend to get lost in marriage? How can this type of love become selfish? Why does it take work for eros to function well in marriage?
- Read Song of Songs 2:7, Song of Songs 3:5 and Song of Songs 8:4. Why is it harmful to awaken eros love before marriage? What are some of the consequences that come with sharing eros love outside of the context God intended? What’s your advice to young people who are being influenced by our over-sexualized culture?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
