1 Corinthians 13:4-8 Charity suffers long, and is kind; charity envies not; charity braggs not itself, is not puffed up,… I. LOVE SEEKETH NOT HER OWN. 1. To the injury of others. 2. Regardless of the welfare of others. We are to love our neighbour as ourselves, even blessing those who curse us. 3. Self-sacrifice is involved. A mother shows it, for her children's sake. Paul for his kinsmen. Christ, for our sakes, became poor. 4. In efforts for the good of others. Love seeketh not her own, as the great end of life and action. This is not the central mainspring — self-worship or the credit which may be gained of men. II. WHAT DOES LOVE SEEK? 1. The glory of God. This is a privilege, a gratification, and not a dreaded task. 2. The welfare of others Charity begins, but does not end, at home. 3. The welfare of Christ's cause. III. WHAT DOES LOVE GAIN? 1. Her own true honour. Christ, who "emptied Himself," receives now the adoration of earth and heaven. The unselfish shall hear at last, "Come, ye blessed." 2. Her own highest blessedness. It is more blessed to give than to receive. 3. Her highest usefulness. Unselfish love is the mightiest of moral forces. Example is powerful, but behind that is the subtle power of character. This is the highest power of the preacher. The same mind which is in Jesus should be in us. (W. W. Woodworth.) Parallel Verses KJV: Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,WEB: Love is patient and is kind; love doesn't envy. Love doesn't brag, is not proud, |
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