Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 45:25 — 20.8MB)
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Android | TuneIn | RSS
I Corinthians 12:31 introduces chapter 13, saying, “and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.” Charity is a requirement to honor Christ and bless others. Chapter 13 presents Christian charity–its importance, description, growth in it, and its permanence. Then chapter 14 begins, “Follow after charity” (KJV).
Jesus was a GREAT LIGHT in a dark world (Matt. 4:13-17). One way people “saw” or sensed this light was through Christ’s love. Jesus went to Heaven, but He had told His followers they were to be the light of the world (Matt. 5:14-16). “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matt 5:16).
Faith without works is dead (James 2:14-17). Love without works is dead (I John 3:17-18). Works without love is dead too (I Cor. 13:1-3).
Paul wrote, “But we urge you, brethren, that you increase {in love} more and more” (I Thess. 4:10 NKJV). Christians who confess and repent, who pray for grace, will grow. Love is essential for our spiritual health and for our mission on earth.
And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love to one another and to all (I Thess. 3:12 NKJV).