One of the most well-known scriptures is the description of love’s character and importance in 1 Corinthians 13. The chapter ends with the words, “But now faith, hope, and love remain – these three. The greatest of these is love” (verse 13).
This verse is sometimes explained by the fact that faith will become sight and hope will become reality when the righteous reach heaven, but love will continue. This explanation fits the context of the chapter, which compares the lasting value of love with the temporary role of miraculous spiritual gifts given to Christians in the first century (verses 8-10).
Regardless, it is clear from verses such as 1 Corinthians 13:13 that love is of utmost importance. Consider some things God teaches about what He means when He commands love.
Note first of all that the command for love assumes such love is properly directed. Love can cause harm if it is misdirected.
1 Timothy 6:10 teaches that “the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” Diotrephes was rebuked for loving “to have the preeminence” (3 John 9).
1 John 2:15 commands, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him” (also see 2 Tim. 3:2-4 & 4:10).
God-pleasing love is directed toward truth (2 Thes. 2:10), and is foremost directed toward God (Matt. 22:37-38) and others (verse 39).
God’s description of loving Him and others differs from how many view love.
The love typically commanded in the New Testament is agapao or agape love (Strong G25 & G26). This love is deeper than an emotional attachment. It is a choice to value someone highly, and selflessly give something in response.
The love we must direct toward God and others is rooted in God’s love for us
(1 John 4:7-11, 19).
Love is such a primary part of God’s character that Scripture says, “God is love” (1 John 4:8). Though we have grossly mistreated God, He chose to send His Son to die for us so we could be forgiven of our sins, which are foremost against Him (Rom. 5:8).
In consideration of what God has done for us, we have reason to love Him.
Love for God is deeper than just having a good feeling toward Him. In John 14:15, Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commandments” (also see 1 John 5:3).
Jesus emphasized the need to love God with our entire being in Mark 12:30. One who does so will obey God’s commands, placing God’s will above his or her own.
Genuine love for God leads to love for others (1 John 4:20-21).
Love for others is a deliberate choice to serve others as we have the ability and opportunity. It involves putting others’ needs ahead of one’s own desires. Love is proven by actions (1 John 3:17-18).
Love for others is the root of treating others as we should (Rom. 13:9-10).
The impact of love is seen in
1 Corinthians 13:4-7.
If we love others as we should, we will not be short-tempered with others, but be longsuffering. We will be kind and not be envious of others’ good fortune. We won’t be arrogant and boastful, seeking to exalt self above others (verse 4).
If we love others as we should, we won’t treat others rudely, but will be respectful. We will consider others and not just self. We won’t lash out in hasty anger at others. Furthermore, we won’t keep a mental list of others’ wrongs (verse 5).
If we love as we should, we won’t delight in others’ unrighteousness. Instead, we will rejoice “with the truth” (verse 6).
Love “bears all things,” not gossiping about others. Love “believes all things,” giving others the benefit of the doubt, instead of assuming the worst. Love “hopes all things,” wanting the best for others. Love “endures all things,” treating others well through hardships (verse 7).
Jesus perfectly exemplified love. We show our allegiance to Him by following His example of love (John 13:34-35).
May we faithfully love God and others.
– Michael Hickox