The Qualities of Love Part 2 | 1 Corinthians 13:4-5a

Scripture

• 1 Corinthians 13:4

About this sermon

Introduction: When we recognize the priority of love, and we reflect on the permanence of love, we will see how vital it is to examine ourselves about the PRACTICE of love. We are called to WALK in the love of God. ESV Ephesians 5:2 And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. We are called to ABOUND in the way of love. ESV Philippians 1:9 And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, ESV 1 Thessalonians 3:12 and may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, as we do for you, This list — a list that we began examining last Sunday evening — defines what love is by describing what love chooses FOR and what love chooses AGAINST. Love isn’t measured simply by words. Love isn’t measured simply by emotions. Love isn’t measured simply by intentions. LOVE IS A MATTER OF PRACTICE. A few things we need to keep in mind as we think about THE PRACTICE of love. First, this list makes clear that love is something that is not found in man by nature. This entire list makes it plain that love is something CONTRARY to who we are WITHOUT CHRIST. Second, this list is CORRECTIVE to the Corinthian church. Paul could have chosen to show us what love is and isn’t in many more areas than just the ones mentioned here, but the qualities mentioned here confront specific issues that they were dealing with. Third, this list is UNIVERSAL in its application. Even though Paul is demonstrating how love is the answer for the Corinthian situation, the fact that this is one of the most beloved passages in the entire NT, and the fact that it is convicting and encouraging to ALL of us, testifies that where the Corinthians were struggling, we all struggle. Fourth, this list is UNIFYING. At the heart of all this instruction is the desire for the Corinthians to focus on what EDIFIES THE BODY, and what contributes to the UNIFIED FUNCTIONING OF THE CHURCH. The key to the unity of the church, and the key to the church functioning properly, is love. Finally, this list doesn’t tell us what love RESULTS in, it tells us WHAT LOVE IS. THIS IS LOVE. In other words, the lack of love that was envisioned in verses 1-3, is the absence of these kinds of actions. I. LOVE IS PATIENT (LAST TIME) II. LOVE IS KIND Now, it is to be noted that patience and kindness are linked together in Paul’s list. These first two actions are put to us in a positive way, and then Paul begins to give us a list of what love doesn’t do. The best way to understand the connection between patience and kindness is to remember where we best see these two qualities demonstrated. These two qualities are found in God Himself, they are demonstrated by God Himself. ESV Romans 2:1 Therefore you have no excuse, O man, every one of you who judges. For in passing judgment on another you condemn yourself, because you, the judge, practice the very same things. 2 We know that the judgment of God rightly falls on those who do such things. 3 Do you suppose, O man- you who judge those who do such things and yet do them yourself- that you will escape the judgment of God? 4 Or do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God's kindness is meant to lead you to repentance? What kind of kindness has God shown to the unbelieving world? (Matthew 5:38-48) ESV Matthew 5:38 "You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.' 39 But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. 40 And if anyone would sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. 41 And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles.

Topics

• Love & Compassion