What does "Love keeps no record of wrongs" mean?

Definition and Key Verse

In the original text of 1 Corinthians 13:5, the phrase “love … keeps no account of wrongs” describes an attribute of genuine, selfless love. This “account of wrongs” is sometimes translated as “record,” evoking the notion of keeping a ledger of offenses. The Greek verb (logizomai) conveys the idea of calculating or counting something against another. Within the broader context of 1 Corinthians 13, it indicates that love does not continually catalog or tally up offenses, waiting for a moment to revisit them. Instead, love releases them.

Context of 1 Corinthians 13

The surrounding passage, sometimes called “the Love Chapter,” is part of a letter that underscores how believers should practice love within a community. Paul wrote these words in a time of conflicts and disagreements among the Corinthian believers (1 Corinthians 1:11–12). This teaching on love is strategically placed amid discussions about spiritual gifts (chapters 12 and 14), emphasizing that even miraculous abilities or profound wisdom are empty if not accompanied by genuine love.

Purpose of the Statement

The phrase “keeps no account of wrongs” is both corrective (highlighting that some in Corinth were nurturing grievances) and instructive (showing a better way). Love that comes from God and flows among people should not keep a running list of infractions or humiliations. Holding onto these can lead to bitterness, discord, and self-righteousness. Instead, the passage shows a radical call to reconcile and forgive as an ongoing lifestyle.

Relation to God’s Forgiveness

Scripture consistently reveals a God who, upon granting forgiveness, does not hold sins against the repentant. As Psalm 103:12 states, “As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us.” Relatedly, Micah 7:19 portrays God casting sins into the depths of the sea. Such vivid imagery affirms a divine pattern of not retaining an archive of forgiven wrongdoing. This motif is reflected in Jesus’ teaching that those who receive mercy from God must also be ready to show such mercy to others (Matthew 6:12–15).

A Deeper Look at the Term “No Account”

In examining manuscripts that preserve 1 Corinthians, the Greek phrase “ou logizetai to kakon” has appeared consistently across ancient copies. These manuscripts form a reliable basis for concluding that Paul intended a strong expression of refusing to tally or record a person’s wrongdoings. The consistent witness of these copies underscores that “no account of wrongs” truly centers on the idea of moving beyond faultfinding and toward restorative relationships.

Behavioral and Philosophical Considerations

From a behavioral standpoint, a mindset of “keeps no account of wrongs” has implications for mental and emotional well-being. Nursing grudges often correlates with greater stress, anxiety, and fractured relationships. Conversely, releasing old offenses aligns with many findings on healthier interpersonal connections and general well-being. Philosophically, this openness fosters empathy, humility, and reconciliation—traits that enrich community life.

Practical Applications

1. Forgiveness in Daily Life: Actively choosing not to resurrect old wounds or point out someone’s past failures in arguments promotes trust and healing in relationships.

2. Marriages and Families: Keeping a “clean slate” approach in close relationships guards them against cyclical resentment. Couples and families thrive when past mistakes are not endlessly recycled but addressed and released.

3. Church and Community Settings: The Corinthian church struggled with divisions, yet Paul urged them to operate in love. Modern gatherings of any kind benefit when members remain patient, kind, and ready to forgive, rather than keeping personal records of every offense.

4. Spiritual Growth: Cultivating this aspect of love fosters spiritual maturity. As individuals practice not keeping score of wrongs, they grow in the likeness of the One who forgives thoroughly and repeatedly.

Examples from Scripture

- Joseph and His Brothers (Genesis 50:15–21): After suffering betrayal and harm, Joseph chose not to hold his brothers’ wrongdoing against them. His refusal to maintain a list of their offenses led to reconciliation and preserved a nation.

- Stephen’s Martyrdom (Acts 7:59–60): As he faced death, Stephen prayed for his persecutors, asking that their sin not be held against them. In doing so, Stephen illustrated the truly extraordinary nature of love.

- Jesus on the Cross (Luke 23:34): Jesus prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” In the ultimate demonstration of forgiveness, love triumphed over condemnation.

Common Objections and Clarifications

- Does “no account of wrongs” imply ignoring harmful behavior?

Not at all. Scripture does not support enabling sin or accepting injustice. It does, however, command believers to address wrongdoing in a spirit of gentleness (Galatians 6:1) and to restore relationships whenever possible (Matthew 18:15–17). Keeping no account of wrongs is distinct from enabling continuous harm; it involves confronting issues while refusing to hold onto resentment.

- Is it permissible to seek justice?

Absolutely. The principle of love does not negate the need for genuine repentance or fair consequences. Love, by not hoarding offenses, remains open to reconciliation—while justice ensures responsibility for actions.

Spiritual Significance and Conclusion

“Love keeps no account of wrongs” embodies selflessness, empathy, and kindness. This principle points beyond mere human capacity, reflecting the nature of divine forgiveness. By aligning with this directive, individuals and communities experience freedom from perpetual bitterness and discover a path toward peace, grounded in the pattern of God’s own love.

Ultimately, this teaching challenges believers and encourages them to reflect on how divine compassion is manifested: “It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no account of wrongs” (1 Corinthians 13:5). The call is to reject the urge to store up grievances and to follow the example of the One who does not hold forgiven sin against us. This kind of love brings restoration, wholeness, and a deeper fulfillment as people walk in unity, reflecting the heart of God in the world.