Verse of the Day
Wednesday, February 12, 2025
1 Corinthians 13:6-7
[Love] does not rejoice in wrongdoing, but rejoices in the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
Introduction
Love is a central theme in Christian teaching, and 1 Corinthians 13 is one of the most profound biblical passages on the nature of love. In verses 6-7, the Apostle Paul describes love’s character, emphasizing its moral integrity and endurance. These verses remind us that love is not passive sentimentality but an active, ethical, and resilient force that reflects the very nature of God.
Commentary
Paul, writing to the church in Corinth, contrasts love with selfishness and sin. Love does not find joy in wrongdoing—whether in personal failings, injustice, or harm done to others. Instead, love is aligned with truth, celebrating righteousness and integrity.
The following verse, with its series of “all things” statements, highlights love’s unwavering commitment. To bear all things suggests a covering or protection, much like a strong shelter in a storm. To believe all things does not imply gullibility but rather a trust that seeks the good in others. Love hopes all things, always looking toward God’s promises rather than despairing. Lastly, love endures all things, meaning it remains steadfast through trials and tribulations.
Understanding the Context
The Corinthian church was rife with division, pride, and moral failures. Paul wrote 1 Corinthians to correct these issues, reminding them that spiritual gifts, knowledge, and eloquence are meaningless without love. The kind of love Paul describes is not merely emotional but deeply ethical and enduring.
In the Greco-Roman world, love was often associated with passion, friendship, or duty. Paul, however, introduces agape—selfless, divine love. This love does not celebrate evil but aligns with God’s truth. It is a love that perseveres, even when tested by hardship or betrayal.
Application for Today
In a world where love is often portrayed as conditional or fleeting, 1 Corinthians 13:6-7 calls us to a higher standard. How often do we find ourselves drawn to gossip, revenge, or self-interest? Love challenges us to reject wrongdoing and stand for truth, even when it is uncomfortable.
Furthermore, love’s endurance teaches us to persist in relationships, ministry, and faith despite difficulties. It calls us to believe in God’s transformative power in others, to hope beyond present struggles, and to remain steadfast in love even when circumstances test our patience.
In practical terms, this might mean:
Choosing truth over deception in our daily interactions.
Supporting loved ones even when they falter.
Holding onto hope in the face of adversity.
Loving people even when they disappoint us, just as God loves us despite our failings.
Reflection
Are there areas in my life where I have rejoiced in wrongdoing, even subtly?
How can I actively rejoice in the truth, both in my personal life and in my community?
In what ways is God calling me to bear, believe, hope, and endure in love?
How can I model the love of Christ more fully in my relationships?
Love, as Paul describes it, is not easy, but it is the essence of Christian discipleship. May we strive to live out this love, reflecting God’s truth and grace in all we do.
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Bible, copyright © 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Verse of the Day is a daily inspirational and encouraging Bible verse extracted from BibleGateway.com. Commentary by Kenny Sallee, ThM.
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