Beloved – (Based on a google search definition)
n.–a much loved person
adj.–dearly loved
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Strong’s Bible concordance gives us a little history into the Greek translation of the word BELOVED.
The word BELOVED actually represented agapétos or agape love which in the Greek translation equates to what we consider a sacrificial love…the highest form of love.
Beloved – (Based on the Greek translation)
adj.–with two special applications:
the Beloved, a title of the Messiah (Christ), as beloved beyond all others by the God who sent Him;
Of Christians, as beloved by God, Christ, and one another.
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Where exactly are some places in the Bible where the word BELOVED is used?
Note: Not all the Bible translations use the actual word BELOVED, but the English Standard Version is one that does so I am referencing that translation in these thoughts.
One of the first New Testament references where the word BELOVED is used is when John the Baptist was baptizing Jesus in the Jordan River.
Matthew 3:16-17
And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; and behold, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” (ESV)
God’s voice from heaven announced that Jesus is His BELOVED son! Yes, Jesus is God’s dearly loved Son and is so pleased with Him!
In fact, rather than call Jesus by name, God calls Him, BELOVED! Wow!!