The Living Body: Love Remains

(1 Corinthians 13:8-13)

Recap:

The church is gifted to serve God’s kingdom.

We embrace our differences and focus on what makes us the same. Spiritual gifts point people to Jesus.

There are different gifts. When used correctly, the church provides assurance, clarity, direction, and display God’s power.

We walk in unity.

We walk in God’s direction under His order. We want our gifts to be functional.

Everything we do will be directed by love or it will be empty.

The church is meant to walk in love above everything.

Why love?

1. Love is Eternal

When Jesus returns, all Christians will reach full maturity.

There will be no need for prophecy (foretelling and forth-telling)

Tongues (spiritual language) will be obsolete.

Not love!

Corinth based maturity on giftings.

Since love is eternal, we know that Christian love is the sign of a true believer.

“perfect” (teleios) = fullness of God’s salvation.

Never ends (ekpipite) - Actor hissed off stage.

The love of God holds its place. It won’t fall away.

No other movement, belief, or person can say that.

Loving God and people is the richest investment.

2. Love Matures

Our Christian goal is spiritual maturity.

When Jesus returns, we will reach full maturity. Untill then, we are to progressively mature.

“Child” (neepios) 3 or 4 year old child.

Certain behaviors are acceptable at this age, but expectations change.

“mirror” - In Graeco-Roman world, polished metal with a handle. Not clear.

Paul was no Peter Pan who refuesed to grow up.

He put aside childish things. He would not be ruled by immaturity anymore.

HH. Saved on summer = childish. Expectations changed after.

“To me, growing into spiritual maturity is becoming less self conscious and more God-conscious.” - Mark Batterson

As our love for God grows, our maturity as a Christian will follow suit.

The Bible is not an obligation.

Prayer isn’t pointless.

Church isn’t a hobby.

Maturing in love is a gift of grace.

3. Love Abides

In eternity, faith and hope may be temporary.

Love is eternal because it reflects God’s fundamental character.

Love is the greatest gift because it remains.

Remain = Abide (John 15:7)

I call my mom often.

These three graces are essential, but love occupies the supreme place.

The church abides in Christ with knowledge of God’s eternal love.