Sincere Love
Romans 12:9
"Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor what is evil, cling to what is good."
The main teaching of this passage is that love must be authentic and morally active. Paul warns us against love that is a mere facade, an act, or a mere courtesy. Genuine love (agape) is not hypocritical; it is sincere and real. Furthermore, this love is not passive: it has moral judgment. True love abhors what is evil (what destroys, what is unjust) and clings firmly to what is good (what builds, what is just). Love, therefore, is not blind; it is a force that seeks good and rejects evil.
Authenticity and Honesty
The commandment that "love be without pretense" is a call to radical honesty in couples, meaning to love each other for who they truly are, without masks, pretense, or manipulation. It rejects emotional games and hypocrisy, and encourages vulnerability and genuine trust.
Unity in Values
The phrase "abhor what is evil, cling to what is good" provides a moral compass for the relationship. A couple with authentic love unites to oppose what could damage their relationship (such as lies, disrespect, selfishness, or infidelity).
At the same time, they commit together to seeking out what strengthens their love (open communication, loyalty, mutual support, and acts of kindness). Love becomes an active force that protects and nurtures the bond that unites them.