In this continuation of Paul’s teaching on love, Stephen Davey exposes how even the most impressive spiritual gifts and acts of service are worthless without genuine, Christlike love (agape). The Corinthian believers, once enslaved to selfish passions, were now bringing their self-centered habits into the church—seeking attention, power, and recognition. Paul dismantles their pride through “divine mathematics”: seven spiritual achievements minus love equals zero (7–1=0). Eloquence, knowledge, prophecy, faith, generosity, and even martyrdom—all are empty if not motivated by love. True love, unlike the world’s versions of affection (storge), friendship (philia), or passion (eros), is selfless, sacrificial, and steadfast. It serves rather than seeks, gives rather than gains. The lesson concludes with a challenge for believers to measure every word, deed, and offering by the standard of love, for only what is done in love carries eternal value.
7-1=0
Add to Favorites