Studies in 1 Corinthians 43

1
Studies in 1 Corinthians 43

• The Importance of Love
• 1 Corinthians 131-3

2

• 1 Cor. 1231, But earnestly desire the best
  gifts. And yet I show you a more excellent way.
• The way of Love 1 Corinthians 13

3
In this chapter Paul demonstrates

• 1) Without love gifts are meaningless
• 2) how proper love is superior to spiritual gifts
• 3)The permanence of love

4
Does this chapter belong here?

• Paul ties it to gifts in 1231
• Gifts mentioned in 131-3
• Attributes of love will ensure these gifts are
  done properly
• Vs. 8-12 spiritual gifts are temporary

5
Love the more excellent way

• The motive that ensures gifts properly used
• Variety of gifts can unite us if we have love
• WE can do this even if we dont have spiritual
  gifts
• Love foundation of everything
• It transcends earthly boundaries

6
What is love?

• Many different uses in English language present a
  challenge in proper definition
• Four Greek words for love 1) Eros 2) Stergo
  cf. 2 Tim. 33, Rom 131 3) Phileo 1 Thess.
  49, Heb. 131 4) Agape

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What is love?

• Agape love
• the characteristic word of Christianity
  (Vines)
• to be full of goodwill and exhibit the same.
  (Thayer)
• Caring enough to sacrifice for what is best

8
What is love?

• Jesus emphasized love Matt. 2237-39
• Paul emphasized this love Eph. 52, 1 Cor.
  1614, Gal. 513, 22, Eph. 41-3, etc.
• John also spoke of it often

9
What is love?

• Governs every relationship
• God loves us John 316, Rom. 58
• Jesus loves us John 1512-13, Eph. 525
• We love Him Jn. 1510, 1415, 1 John 53

10
What is love?

• Governs every relationship
• Our brethren John 1334-35, 1 Thess. 49
• Our love for our neighbors Jas. 28, Rom.
  139-10, Gal. 514
• Our enemies Matt. 543-44

11
Importance of love 131-3

• Importance emphasized in 1 John 47-11, 2 Pet.
  17,
• Without love our words are noise
• Tongues of men languages Tongues of angels
  perfect delivery understanding

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Importance of love 131-3

• Without love our abilities are nothing
• Some spiritual gifts mentioned Prophecies
  Gods messengers
• All mysteries and knowledge - If I have perfect
  understanding
• All faith Heb. 116, cf. Matt. 826, 1431, etc.

13
Importance of love 131-3

• Without love our works are worthless
• What if we gave up everything, including our
  lives?
• Without love, we are not saved! It is a waste!

14
Do our attitudes reflect the importance of love
in our lives?