The Power of Love

Being able to speak the languages of men, or even angels, produced nothing but a hollow sound without meaning if love was absent, according to Paul. It should be remembered that angels are spiritual beings (Hebrews 1:7) and do not speak in the same manner as men (Luke 24:39). This was a hypothetical situation Paul used to show even the most impressive abilities would be empty without love.

Lipscomb says, "Love denies self for the good of object. Passion seeks its own gratification." The Corinthians had taken pride in spiritual gifts, yet, apparently, lacked the necessary love for those who could be benefitted by them. Instead of being concerned with how impressive these gifts made them appear which made them nothing, they should have been concerned with how others might learn the truth. Lipscomb noted even Judas Iscariot had the ability to work miracles (Matthew 10:1), yet he betrayed the Lord!

Providing for the needs of others is a work of Christianity, but is meaningless without love as its root cause. Even martyrdom loses its effect without love. As McGarvey says, "Willingness to fight and die for Christianity will not take the place of loving obedience to Christ" (1 Corinthians 13:1-3).

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