Hastings' Dictionary of the Bible (1898)
LOVE. This term signifies one of the constituent principles of our nature, and in the perfect exercise of it is comprehended the whole of our duty to God and to our fellow-creatures. Matt 22:37-40; Rom 13:8, 1 Kgs 16:10; Gal 5:14; Jas 2:8. Hence it evidently comprehends all holiness of heart and life. The highest and most glorious display of the divine character which has ever been made to man is the love of God in Jesus Christ, Rom 5:8, and the great principle and fruit of both faith and obedience consists in the possession and exercise of love. John 13:34-35,.