Everyone is familiar with 1st Corinthians 13. You know, the Love Chapter in the NT. The part of Scripture that is often read and cited in weddings. The writing of Paul that is very often seen in picture frames, printed on bumper stickers, and screened on t-shirts. Look at the heart to your left <– Yes, the big red one with the white words. Out of the entire 1st Corinthians 13 chapter, those 3 words: “love never fails” is probably the most frequently utilized. We’ve read it. We’ve seen it. We’ve heard it. We know it.
But for some reason, many do not live it. I can’t tell you why that is so, but I can tell you: It is so. For a moment, let me dig into the context and occasion of this letter. Paul wrote this letter to the Church in Corinth – a church that had many spiritual gifts and abilities amidst a culture of sin. But they lacked the one attribute and characteristic that was most important: love. He makes this statement: “Now, let me show you the most excellent way…” Without delay Paul expounds on love: what it looks like, how it works itself out, etc. I’ve heard people say things like: “that sure is a nice ideal” and even “that type of love doesn’t exist.” I do the best I can, with God’s help, in love, to assure people that this agape love does exist. The love Paul writes about is possible and it has been made available. It is the love that changes, transforms, and renews. It is the love of God, in Christ, distributed by the Holy Spirit. It is the most excellent way.
In November (which is really just a few weeks away now), we are going to whole-heartedly dive into 1st Corinthians 13. We are going to saturate in it throughout the month as we journey together into the Advent Season. I believe there is truth, and revelation, and promise for us all as we stop and remain in The Love Letter of the NT. I am believing, with all I have, that God is going to work “in us” as we journey together. Pray with me that we will be sensitive and open to the Holy Spirit; to His work; and to His desire.
In His love…
Pastor Porter
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