1 Corinthians 13
đź“– Background
Often called the “love chapter,” 1 Corinthians 13 is Paul’s poetic and powerful teaching on the supremacy of love. Set in the context of spiritual gifts and church unity, Paul argues that without love, all gifts and service are meaningless. He describes love’s enduring character and its superiority over all other virtues. The chapter concludes with a reminder that while spiritual gifts are temporary, love remains eternal.
🧠Major Themes
Love is essential, even above spiritual gifts (verses 1–3)
The character and behavior of true love (verses 4–7)
The temporary nature of gifts vs. the permanence of love (verses 8–10)
Maturity and seeing in full (verses 11–12)
Love as the greatest virtue (verse 13)
🔎 Reference Scriptures to Consider
John 13:34–35 – Love as the mark of discipleship
Romans 12:9–10 – Sincere love and honor
Galatians 5:6 – Faith expressing itself through love
Colossians 3:14 – Love binds all in perfect unity
1 John 4:7–21 – God is love
âť“Reflection Questions
How do you measure the motivation behind your actions—are they truly rooted in love?
Which qualities of love listed in verses 4–7 challenge you most?
How can you grow in expressing love to those who are difficult to love?
In what ways does valuing love above gifts transform your approach to ministry and relationships?