In this sermon, Stephen Davey explores Paul’s teaching on what love does not do, describing three negative qualities that true love rejects—envy, boasting, and arrogance. Davey begins with a humorous origin of the term “pig-headed,” comparing it to the prideful and self-centered attitude Paul warns against. He explains that jealousy—wanting what others have or resenting their blessings—is destructive and rooted in discontentment with God’s provision. Boasting, he says, is the opposite extreme, where a person parades their achievements to elevate themselves above others. And arrogance—an inflated sense of superiority—blinds people to truth and holiness, as seen in the Corinthians’ tolerance of sin. Davey calls believers to reject these “pig-headed” attitudes and instead practice humility, contentment, and gratitude—the true expressions of agape love. He reminds the church that God opposes pride but uses those who become “nothing” before Him, like missionary William Carey, whose humility magnified God’s greatness. True love, Davey concludes, refuses to compete, boast, or exalt self; it chooses to serve others with surrendered humility to Christ.
Refusing to be Pig-headed People
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