Intrinsic Value
God created mankind in His own image. He created us that we might exist forever in a loving relationship with Him. Human beings therefore have an intrinsic value that exists over and above any functional or utilitarian value we might possess. We have value simply because we were created in His image, not based on what we can do or produce.
Likewise, Jesus said that the greatest commandments were to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself. 1 John 4:16 says, "God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him." Therefore, love also has intrinsic value. It is not a means to an end. Jesus did not say, "Love your neighbor as yourself so that..." No. The value of love is not measured by what it produces. Rather, if it can be measured, it must be valued based on how closely is resembles the perfect love of Christ.
The Lord is gracious and compassionate,
slow to anger and rich in love.
The Lord is good to all;
He has compassion on all He has made.