If I speak with the wisdom of the most respected leaders and preach with captivating eloquence, but have no love, I am merely noise—like a clanging cymbal. If I claim to understand all mysteries of faith, know every doctrine, and have faith strong enough to move mountains, yet do not live in love, I am nothing. If I give away all I own to appear generous, or endure suffering for the sake of my reputation, but do not act from love, it profits me nothing.
Love does not dominate or seek control. Love does not manipulate for the sake of influence, nor demand unquestioning loyalty. Love does not parade itself through acts of piety, nor does it thrive on recognition and status. It does not humiliate others in the name of truth, nor does it advance itself at the expense of the vulnerable.
Love is patient with those who struggle and does not insist on its own way. It is kind, not harsh or unyielding. Love does not envy others' success or take pleasure in their failure. It is not arrogant or rude, for love does not measure worth by one's authority or position. Love is not self-serving, nor is it quick to anger when challenged or questioned.
Love does not rejoice in control disguised as righteousness, but delights in the truth—especially the truth of God’s self-giving love. It does not exploit the vulnerable or use others' faith as a means to gain power. Love bears the burdens of others, believes in the potential for healing, hopes for restoration, and endures through hardship—not to protect its own image, but to bring about real transformation.
In communities shaped by fear, performance, or hierarchy, the word "love" is often misused. Leaders may speak of humility but elevate themselves, preach grace but practise exclusion, or teach about Christ while acting in ways that contradict the cross. They may demand loyalty as a sign of faithfulness, confusing submission to them with obedience to God.
But love—the kind of love embodied by Christ—is cruciform. It reflects the pattern of the cross: humble, self-giving, and willing to sacrifice for others, not for control. Love serves without demanding recognition. It listens without the need to correct. It empowers others without expecting anything in return. This love is the true mark of the Christian life and community.
Prophecies, knowledge, and leadership roles—all of these will pass away. But love will remain. For now, our knowledge is partial, our efforts incomplete, but love brings us closer to what we are called to be. When the fullness of Christ’s love is revealed, we will see clearly, no longer hindered by pride, ambition, or power.
The truest expression of faith is not found in authority, success, or spiritual accomplishment. It is found in love—a love that reflects the cross of Christ. And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.
- Rev’d Jon Swales with help from chatgtp
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