Summary
1 Corinthians 13:1–3 – Without Love, I Am Nothing
What happens: Paul says that tongues, prophecy, knowledge, faith, generosity, and sacrifice mean nothing without love.
What it means: God values the heart more than impressive acts. Love reflects his holy, self-giving nature. Gifts without love fail the purpose of God.
1 Corinthians 13:4–7 – What Love Is and Does
What happens: Love is patient and kind. It does not envy or boast. It rejoices with the truth, bears, believes, hopes, and endures all things.
What it means: Love reflects God’s faithful, truthful character. Holiness looks like everyday kindness and endurance. Truth and love belong together in Christian life.
1 Corinthians 13:8–13 – What Lasts Forever
What happens: Prophecies, tongues, and knowledge pass away when the perfect comes. Now we know in part, but then face to face. Faith, hope, and love remain, and the greatest is love.
What it means: Gifts serve a temporary purpose, but love shares God’s eternal nature. Our partial sight calls for humility. God’s future shapes present priorities.
Application
- Pursue love above every gift or achievement.
- Let kindness, patience, and truth guide your speech and service.
- Hold gifts lightly and people dearly, aiming at what lasts forever.
