1. Studies in 1 Corinthians 43 The Importance of Love 1 Corinthians 13:1-3

2. 1 Cor. 12:31, 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 12:31 Gifts mentioned in 13:1-3 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. 3:3, Rom 1:31 3) Phileo – 1 Thess. 4:9, Heb. 13:1 4) Agape

7. 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. 22:37-39 Paul emphasized this love – Eph. 5:2, 1 Cor. 16:14, Gal. 5:13, 22, Eph. 4:1-3, etc. John also spoke of it often

9. What is love? Governs every relationship God loves us – John 3:16, Rom. 5:8 Jesus loves us – John 15:12- 13, Eph. 5:25 We love Him – Jn. 15:10, 14:15, 1 John 5:3

10. What is love? Governs every relationship Our brethren – John 13:34-35, 1 Thess. 4:9 Our love for our neighbors – Jas. 2:8, Rom. 13:9-10, Gal. 5:14 Our enemies – Matt. 5:43-44

11. Importance of love – 13:1-3 Importance emphasized in 1 John 4:7-11, 2 Pet. 1:7,… Without love – our words are noise Tongues of men – languages Tongues of angels – perfect delivery & understanding

12. Importance of love – 13:1-3 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. 11:6, cf. Matt. 8:26, 14:31, etc.

13. Importance of love – 13:1-3 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?