Introduction

Good morning, beloved family of God. Isn't it a joy to gather together in His name, to bask in His love, and to learn from His Word? Today, we are going to embark on a quest of understanding, a quest that takes us to the very heart of what it means to be a follower of Christ. We are going to talk about love. Not the fleeting, surface-level love that the world often settles for, but the deep, demanding, life-changing love that God calls us to.

I'm reminded of the words of Thomas Babington Macaulay, who once said, "The measure of a man's real character is what he would do if he knew he never would be found out." Isn't that the essence of love? To act in ways that are unseen, to give without expecting anything in return, to love without conditions or reservations?

Today, we are going to look at one of the most famous passages in the Bible, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13. It's a passage that many of us have heard countless times, but I believe that God has fresh insights to reveal to us today. So, let's read it together:

[Read passage]

Let's pray.

Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your Word, which is living and active. We thank You for the love that You have shown us, a love that is beyond our comprehension. As we study Your Word today, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to understand more of what it means to love as You love. Help us to not just be hearers of Your Word, but doers also. In Jesus' name, we pray, amen.

Let’s get started!

Defining Demanding Love

When we look at the scripture, we see that love is described in a way that is far from the superficial understanding that we often have. It's not just about feelings or emotions. It's not just about saying the right words or doing the right things. It's about a deep, abiding commitment that shapes our actions and attitudes. It's about a selfless, sacrificial mindset that puts others before ourselves.

This kind of love is patient: It's not quick to anger or frustration. It doesn't rush to judgment or jump to conclusions. It takes the time to understand, to listen, to empathize. It's willing to wait, to endure, to persevere. It's not about instant gratification or quick fixes. It's about long-term commitment and steadfast faithfulness.

This kind of love is kind: It's not harsh or critical. It doesn't belittle or demean. It uplifts and encourages. It seeks to build up, not tear down. It's gentle and compassionate, understanding and forgiving. It's not about proving a point or winning an argument. It's about showing grace and mercy, even when it's not deserved.

This kind of love does not envy: It's not jealous or resentful. It doesn't covet what others have or begrudge their success. It rejoices in the good fortune of others and takes pleasure in their happiness. It's not about competition or comparison. It's about contentment and gratitude, recognizing that all we have is a gift from God.

This kind of love does not boast: It's not arrogant or prideful. It doesn't seek to draw attention to itself or to impress others. It's humble and modest, recognizing that all we have and all we are is because of God's grace. It's not about self-promotion or self-aggrandizement. It's about giving glory to God and serving others.

This kind of love is not proud: It doesn't think too highly of itself or look down on others. It recognizes its own faults and failures and is willing to admit when it's wrong. It's not about maintaining an image or protecting a reputation. It's about honesty and humility, acknowledging our need for God and for each other.

This kind of love does not dishonor others: It respects and values all people, recognizing that they are made in the image of God. It doesn't belittle or demean, insult or ridicule. It's not about asserting dominance or establishing superiority. It's about treating others with dignity and worth, as fellow bearers of God's image.

This kind of love is not self-seeking: It doesn't put its own interests first. It doesn't demand its own way or insist on its own rights. It's willing to sacrifice and serve, to put others before itself. It's not about getting what we want or doing what we please. It's about considering the needs and interests of others, seeking their good above our own.

This is the kind of love that God calls us to: It's not easy. It's not comfortable. It's not natural. But it's the kind of love that can change the world. It's the kind of love that reflects the heart of God. It's the kind of love that Jesus demonstrated for us on the cross. And it's the kind of love that He calls us to demonstrate to others.

Diving into 1 Corinthians 13

As we continue to immerse ourselves in the richness of 1 Corinthians 13, it's impossible to ignore the weight and significance of the Apostle Paul's words ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO