In the book of Ephesians, we are told to “walk in love,” “be holy in love;” be rooted and grounded “in love;” “truth in love;” and edify the body ‘in love.” Each one of those words translated “love” is the Greek word “agape.” The Bible also tells us that he who does not “agape” his brother is not of God (I John 3:10) and that “agape” should be the identifying characteristic of God’s people (John 13: 34-35). How vital is it to know what God is looking for in this unique love called “agape.” You can’t find the true definition of agape in any dictionary or commentary. We learn its definition only from surveying His word.

Rick Shabi

President, United Church of God

Rick Shabi was ordained an elder in 2000, and relocated to northern Florida in 2004. He attended Ambassador College and graduated from Indiana University with a Bachelor of Science in Business, with a major in Accounting. After enjoying a rewarding career in corporate and local hospital finance and administration, he became a pastor in January 2011. Since then, he and his wife Deborah have served in the Orlando and Jacksonville, Florida, churches. Rick served as the Treasurer for the United Church of God from 2013–2022, and was named President in May 2022.