BETTER THAN GOLD
READING: 1 CORINTHIANS 13:1-13
1 Corinthians 13 lists a number of spiritual activities that are highly valued among Christians in the Church of Christ. Some of them, such as understanding all mysteries and all knowledge, are universally inviting to all whether Christian or not. In Chapter 13, the Apostle Paul goes on to inform his readers that, even as attractive as these as these activities may be, their maximized value is subject to one condition. They must be done in love! People have always tried to increase the value of what they have or what they do. For example, in medieval times alchemy was used to try to change common metals into gold. This type of thing, not linked to the love of God, has never worked. On the other hand, with spiritually motivated activities, there is a sure way to increase the value of what we have or do. Compared to the severe limitations and failure characteristic of human efforts, there is something that is far greater. The greater thing is the success that is always guaranteed when the quality of godly love is its source. That’s a thought – about God’s Word.
RESPONSE
1. Why do you suppose it is that love is the greatest of the three?
2. What is the means by which love abides?
