Bible Reflections From Scripture Union Volume OneSample

The Most Excellent Way
Read 1 Corinthians 13:1-13

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 1 Corinthians 13:4

This continues from the previous chapter and addresses the issue of the manifested gifts of the Holy Spirit being a source of disunity. The problem is quite obviously related to an abuse of the gift of tongues. This chapter begins and ends with references to ‘tongues.’

Paul does not set the ideal of ‘love’ against the ‘gifts’, nor even places ‘love’ as better than ‘gifts’. Love is the way in which the spiritual gifts are to function. Love is not set forth in contrast to tongues, but as the necessary ingredient for the expression of all spiritual gifts.

Love acts with the desire to earnestly seek expression of the Spirit not as an end in itself. Love edifies and builds up the community. To Paul, the desire of the Corinthian members for the gift of tongues was further indication of their failure to love one another. Tongues, if un-interpreted, cannot benefit or edify. It is evidence of self-interest. In contrast, love seeks the benefit of all believers.

The Corinthian Christians were in danger of practising a religious ‘spirituality’ but were lacking in the love of Christ. Speaking in tongues is unquestionably a genuine activity of the Spirit. But the church also tolerated illicit sex, greed, idolatry, and pride. Their ‘spirituality’ is religious but where was the love of Christ?

Heed the warning! We could be actively involved in various ‘religious’ ministries and activities, but this would not benefit us or others if our lives are not also characterised by God’s love.

Let us pray for our family and church that we will serve one another in love.