1 Corinthians 13:1-3
1 “If I speak with the tongues of mankind and of angels, but do not have love, I have become a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and know all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3 And if I give away all my possessions to charity, and if I surrender my body so that I may glory, but do not have love, it does me no good.”
Verse 1: Paul is emphasizing that even if someone has the ability to speak in different languages or even angelic languages, without love, it is meaningless. The focus is not on the external manifestation of spiritual gifts, but on the motivation behind them. Love is the key that gives value and purpose to our words and actions. Paul does not have in mind literal heavenly tongues or languages. The gift of tongues is speaking in foreign earthly languages. Rather, Paul is speaking in hyperbole.
Verse 2: Paul continues to highlight the importance of love. Even if someone possesses the gift of prophecy, has deep understanding of mysteries and knowledge, and has great faith, without love, it amounts to nothing. Our faith and knowledge should be grounded in love, as it is the foundation that gives significance and meaning to our spiritual pursuits.
Verse 3: Paul emphasizes that even acts of extreme generosity and self-sacrifice, if done without love, are empty and gain nothing. It is not about seeking recognition or boasting about our sacrifices, but about genuinely caring for others and expressing love through our actions. Love is the driving force behind our giving and serving.
