What does it mean that the greatest of these is love? 1 Cor. 13:13
In 1 Corinthians 13:13, Paul writes, “So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love.”
1 Corinthians 13:1 - 13
AMP - 1 IF I [can] speak in the tongues of men and [even] of angels, but have not love (that reasoning, intentional, spiritual devotion such as is inspired by God's love for and in us), I am only a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 And if I have prophetic powers (the gift of interpreting the divine will and purpose), and understand all the secret truths and mysteries and possess all knowledge, and if I have [sufficient] faith so that I can remove mountains, but have not love (God's love in me) I am nothing (a useless nobody).
Clarify
•
Share
•
Report
•
Asked January 29 2024
•
Anonymous
Community answers are sorted based on votes. The higher the vote, the further up an answer is.
Tim Maas
In my opinion, the passage calls love the "greatest" of the three virtues named (faith, hope, and love) because, in eternity, the earthly faith and hope of believers will have been superseded by sight (so that it will no longer be necessary to exercise faith) and realization (because they will be experiencing the eternal life for which all of the believers had hoped during their earthly lives), whereas Christian love between God and the redeemed, and among the redeemed themselves, will last forever.
Add your Answer
All answers are REVIEWED and MODERATED.
Please ensure your answer MEETS all our guidelines.
A good answer provides new insight and perspective. Here are guidelines to help facilitate a meaningful learning experience for everyone.
- Adhere to the eBible Statement of Faith.
- Your answer should be complete and stand-alone.
- Include supporting arguments, and scripture references if possible. Seek to answer the "why".
- Adhere to a proper tone and spirit of love and understanding.
- For more info see The Complete Guide to eBible