If I speak in the tongues of mortals and of angels, but do not have love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal.” vs. 1
1 Corinthians 13:1-3
Paul concluded his lesson on spiritual gifts for the Corinthians by introducing what he called “a more excellent way,” the passage we have come to know as the “Love Chapter” of the bible. He begins with a critique of the practice that had begun to divide the congregation. Some in Corinth had begun speaking in tongues, not so they could communicate with those speaking in other languages, as on the day of Pentecost, but as a sign they were spiritually superior to others. Paul doesn’t tell them to stop speaking in tongues but lets them know plainly that, without love, they’re only a nuisance in the congregation. In fact, he tells them, love is even more important than prophetic powers, faith, or generosity. Through the centuries millions of believers have experienced the truth of what Paul told the Corinthians. There really is nothing more important than love in the life of a congregation. Preachers can present sermons that regularly flop but if their hearers experience love in their presence, most any fault can be overlooked. And love can’t be faked. It’s easy to mimic piety in our prayers and behaviors, but not love! People will spot us as hypocrites in an instant, and intimacy will be impossible. Love is the key to the health of our life together!
Thought for the Day: How do I experience love in my congregation?
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