INTRODUCTION
Outline.
1. Charity's Preeminence
2. Charity's Potentials
3. Charity's Permanence
Remarks.
1. In this lesson today, we will be discussing the theme: "Charity's Preeminence." Paul wrote to the church at Corinth regarding: "The Preeminence of Charity." The word "preeminence" means, to take first place, the highest of all things. We often speak of the "Preeminence of Christ." But little or none to charity's preeminence, which Christ has shown unto us; and, commanded that we bestow to one another, as saints in the kingdom of God. Where love abounds, much more does faith and hope abound. By this, the Lord declared: "That all men shall know that we are His disciples, if we have (charity) or love one to another," John 13:34-35.
2. First, we will consider "the preeminence of charity." By this we mean, how greater love is to all things. Paul provides three illustrations in describing loves' preeminence. He wrote: 1) It is above the eloquence of the gift of tongues of men and angels; 2) It is above the gift of prophecy, the understanding of all mysteries and all knowledge and having all faith to move mountains; and 3) It is more necessary than giving all our goods to feed the poor, and giving our body to be burned. Without love as its motivation, these acts or deeds are empty and vain. Without charity, we "making nothing, are nothing, and profiteth in nothing."
3. Second, we will notice "the potentials of charity." Paul shows the readers how love ought to behave, how charity suffers long and is kind; how it envieth not, it does not parade or boast itself, and love is not puffed up with pride. Love does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not (easily) provoked, and thinks no evil. It does not rejoice in iniquity (unrighteousness) but rejoices in the truth; it bears all things, believes all things, hopes in all things, and endures all things. If husbands and wives did these things, their marriage would be a blessing. If the Lord's churches did these things, their assemblies would be filled. If members did these things, there would be peace and fellowship among brothers and sisters. Maybe if we can reach these potentials, we could be a blessing on our jobs, in our schools and universities, and even in our neighborhoods.
4. Lastly, we will investigate the "permanence of charity." Paul wrote: "Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they shall fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. We know in part and prophesy in part; but when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away. When I was a child... I put away childish things... And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love. With this brief introduction, let's consider our first point.
BODY OF LESSON
I CHARITY'S PREEMINENCE
A. Charity's preeminence. It is wise to consider the word "preeminence" before proceeding any further in this lesson. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary catalogs the noun: as the quality or state of being preeminent, excellence, superbness, superiority, perfection, or holding first in rank. See Merriam-Webster Dictionary. Observe--
1. The beloved apostle Paul mentioned Christ as having the first place. He wrote: "And He (Christ) is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things He might have the preeminence," Colossians 1:18. The word preeminence in Gr., is proteuo ro pro-tyü'-o, which means to be first (in rank or influence):—have the preference. Paul describes himself as being: "the chief (protos) or worst of all sinners," 1 Timothy 1:15. He wrote elsewhere of Christ's preeminence--
a. He is the head of the body, the church, Ephesians 1:22-23; Colossians 1:24.
b. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, Acts 26:23; Hebrews 2:8-10; Romans 8:29. See also Acts 13:32-33; 1 Corinthians 15:20-23; Revelation 1:5.
c. He has first place in all things, as Creator, John 1:1-3; Ephesians 3:9; Revelation 4:11.
d. The entire creation is subject unto Him: "Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto Him," 1 Peter 3:22; Ephesians 1:20-21; Hebrews 1:6; Colossians 2:9-10.
e. He is the first, the last, that which is to come, the Almighty, Revelation 1:8.
f. He is the Lord God Almighty, Revelation 4:8; Revelation 15:3.
2. Spiritual gifts. After outlining and prioritizing all the spiritual gifts, Paul wrote of the "excellent way." Observe--
a. Covet the best gift. Paul penned: "But covet the best gifts earnestly: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way," 1 Corinthians 12:31.
b. Pursue love. He wrote: "Pursue love and desire spiritual gifts, especially that you may prophesy," 1 Corinthians 14:1.
1) Paul encourages all saints to earnestly covet the best gift and the "more excellent way," and that's charity.
2) Love is more important than any spiritual gift.
3) But if you covet one, desire the gift of prophecy, 1 Corinthians 14:1.
4) God has placed every member in the body as it pleases Him, 1 Corinthians 12:18.
5) Charity holds the highest esteem, even among the least in the body of Christ, 1 Corinthians 12:19-27.
6) God has given importance to all that are in the body, 1 Corinthians 12:28-30.
c. Love is the more excellent way, "it is preeminent," 1 Corinthians 12:31.
d. Paul's discussion of love is nestled between coveting the "more excellent way" and the "pursuit of love," in the use of spiritual gifts in the assembly, which the Holy Spirit gave unto the saints. I wish I had some help with this lesson. Amen, elder Doors!
3. The word "preeminence" again means to be first (in rank or influence):—have the preeminence. It is only used once in the bible, and it pertains to Christ. Paul affirms that Christ has first place in all things. He is preeminent in all things. Christ is the--
a. Originator or creator of all things, Psalms 33:6; Isaiah 44:24; John 1:1-3; Ephesians 3:9; Colossians 1:16; Hebrews 3:3-4.
b. Sustainer of all things, Colossians 1:17; Hebrews 1:1-2.
c. First in all things in heaven and earth, Colossians 1:18.
d. First and the last, the Almighty. He is the: "Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty," Revelation 1:8; Joel 1:15; Isaiah 13:6; Revelation 19:16. I wish I had some help with this lesson! Amen, sister Ceilings, and brother Walls!
NOTE: He is Creator, not a creation. JWs believe Christ is a created being. Paul affirms, Christ made all creation; and angels, all authorities and powers: are now being made subject unto Him. Only God can create! See Hebrew 3:4.
4. Some historians contend that no nation or country has ever attained such an undisputed preeminence, in government and power, since the glorious days of the Roman Empire. Her splendor has since vanished away. Like all other civilizations and powers. Could there be another?
5. America, with God's blessings, could attain such distinction if she would rise above her evils and ungodly practices of bigotry, hatred, and systemic racism. This is our challenge, brethren, in this generation among the churches of Christ, in America and around the world.
a. I believe the youth of America; now compels and ushers us into a greater sense of social justice, integrity, equity, and love of duty to others, in all levels of government, businesses, and faith in Christ and His teachings.
b. America a new day is dawning; brethren let's awaken and be a part of it, and no longer sleeping, or opposing it, Ephesians 5:14-16.
c. Isaiah wrote: "And a little child shall lead them," Isaiah 11:6. Jesus said unto them: "Wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business?" Luke 2:42-52. Beloved of the Lord, let's be about our Father's business too!
d. Let's make a difference with our prayers, preaching, and practices. Brothers and sisters: we have work to do, souls to save, and a nation to help heal.
NOTE: Illustrate President Obama's motto: Yes, we can!
6. Conclusion: We are observing that "charity" must hold first place in all things. We must love God: "With all our hearts, our soul, our minds, and all of our strength; and then, love our neighbors as ourselves," Matthew 22:37-40.
a. On these two commandments says Jesus: "Hang all the laws and the prophets." All the Law writings; and the teaching of the prophets can be summed up in these two commandments. Love God with all our hearts and our neighbors, as we love ourselves! Amen, Brother Usher!
b. If we would just do these two things, this nation could rise to its highest potential, to a real preeminence (first place), in all its dealings and standings around the world with all Nations. We have lost "face" among nations and the world because of this Administration (Donald J. Trump's Presidency).
c. James wrote: "If ye fulfill the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself, ye do well," James 2:8. Someone may be asking right about now. What kind of love accepts all peoples, nations, and ethnicities?
d. What is this charity Paul speaks about? I thought no one would ever ask.
B. The word love. The term "charity" in Gr., is agape or ä-gä'-pa, which means love, i.e., affection or benevolence; especially, a love-feast :—( feast of) charity (-ably), dear, love. "Agape" is defined as the highest form of love given to all men. This is the love, whereby God loveth all men. And God requires us to love one another. This kind of love seeketh the highest good of one another. It is given unconditionally. John wrote: "We love Him, because he first loved us," 1 John 4:19. What could we do in America if genuine love enabled us to place people and goodness above things such as these? Observe--
1. People over political parties.
2. Love for one another, over hatred and bigotry.
3. Righteousness over iniquity (unrighteousness). Right over wrong!
4. Light over darkness (understanding over superstitions).
5. Science over fiction (Public Health advice over frivolous feeling).
NOTE: Frivolous is a position or words lacking in intellectual substance and not worth serious consideration; it is silly and trivial.
6. Truth overlies (the integrity of words over falsehoods and deceit).
7. What could we accomplish in America: "If we would do justly (right by our fellow-man), loved mercy (show mercy and compassion to all), and walked humbly (in submissive obedience) unto our God, before all men? Micah 6:8.
a. What problem would be too significant that we as a people working together could not resolve, or challenge we could not overcome?
b. Both Joe Biden and Kamala Harris are the leaders America so desperately needs during our current calamities. They have pledged before God: to support the Constitution, restore law and order, care and provide for the health and wealth of all people; and, not just for the privileged few, who are currently destroying our precious resources and bankrupting our national economy and livelihood. Consider--
c. The recent RNC has attempted to shift blame to the Democrats. But don't be fooled by all their hot air. Donald J. Trump and the Republican Party are the blame for America's disastrous conditions. That is the truth of the matter!
1) Our current health and economic conditions are the President's results and the Republican Party's "inactions, distractions and gross mismanagement."
2) They have been reckless and ruthless in governing this nation during these crises. They passed a bold, massive tax cut for the rich but cannot extend unemployment benefits for the hard-working American people. Why?
3) They did it to line their own pockets with "filthy lucre," Titus 1:11. They are all greedy for ill-gotten gain! This was the planned, systematic, and shady work of the President and Mitch McConnell. They are not looking out for our welfare!
4) May God forgive them, and may their stolen monies become: "Rust, and a witness against them in the day of the Lord." If they refuse to repent and restore what they have stolen from the American people and its economy! James 5:1-3.
NOTE: Illustrate Zacchaeus, a tax collector. Gave to the poor, and restore unto those fourfold, what he had taken of their substance, by false accusation. Notice--
d. Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord: "Look, Lord, I give half of my goods to the poor; and if I have taken anything from anyone by false accusation, I restore fourfold." "And Jesus said to him:"
1) First, "Today salvation has come to this house because you also are a son of Abraham."
2) Second, "For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost," Luke 19:8-10.
3) I pray these also to do as Zacchaeus promised; to give back that he had stolen, fourfold. Why? Because--
e. The people's cries are being heard by the Lord of the Sabbath. James wrote:
1) First, "Behold, the hire of the laborers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of Sabbath. Ye have lived in pleasure on the earth, and been wanton; ye have nourished your hearts, as in a day of slaughter. Ye have condemned and killed the just; and he doth not resist you," James 5:4-6. But, your day of want and punishment is coming!
2) Second, O' ye people. He continued: "Be patient, therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receives the early and latter rain. Be ye also patient; establish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh," James 5:7-8; Hebrews 10:35-39.
3) Third, "The Lord of the harvest is coming." And the reward of the righteous of the earth draweth nigh. Observe--
a) The honest and hardworking people of America: shall receive their reward; and, and shall also witness the judgment of the wicked! Psalms 91:8-9.
b) David, the man after God's own heart, wrote:
i. First, "Evil shall slay the wicked, and those who hate the righteous shall be condemned," Psalms 34:21; Psalms 94:23.
ii. Second, "The wicked shall be cut off," Psalms 37:28.
iii. Third, "The transgressors shall be destroyed together," Psalms 37:38.
c) Solomon wrote: "The wicked shall be cut off from the earth," Proverbs 2:22.
d) Isaiah wrote: "Woe to the wicked! It shall be ill with him: For the reward of his hands shall be given him," Isaiah 3:11; Isaiah 48:22; Psalms 28:4
e) Paul wrote: "But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons," Colossians 3:24-25; Romans 2:5-11.
f. Conclusion: The Judge of all judges, the King of kings, and the Lord of lords, is standing at the door of judgment. There is yet only one thing He awaits: "For the (cup of) iniquity (ungodliness) of the Amorite's to become full," Genesis 15:16. Has the cup of ungodliness in America become full before God?
NOTE: Illustrate, It took 430 years of oppression for Israel to endure before God judged Egypt: for their sin and iniquities committed against His people.
1) America's oppressors shall not escape! Their judgment for the sins and iniquities to God standeth at the door.
2) The Day of the Lord draweth nigh, James 5:8; Hebrews 10:29-31; 1 Peter 4:7; Revelation 22:20. And no man shall escape the judgment of the Lord!
3) With this admonishment, we will turn our attention again to the lesson. Paul speaks of the excellence and superiority of charity (love) over all other things.
8. Gifts of the Spirit. Paul illustrates love to the church at Corinth in a manner they knew well, through their receipt and use of spiritual gifts granted to them by the Holy Spirit. Observe--
a. First, the background of this lesson. In Chapter 12, Paul wrote: "Therefore I make known to you...There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all," 1 Corinthians 12:3-6. He continues--
b. Further, "But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all (the church):"
1) "For to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit;"
2) "To another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit;"
3) "To another faith by the same Spirit;"
4) "To another the gifts of healings by the same Spirit;"
5) "To another the working of miracles;"
6) "To another prophecy;"
7) "To another discerning of spirits;"
8) "To another, it is given different kinds of tongues;"
9) "To another, it is given the interpretation of tongues," 1 Corinthians 12:7-10.
c. Finally, "But the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills," 1 Corinthians 12:11; Hebrews 2:1-4.
1) These spiritual gifts were given to the church's members to edify and grow the body of Christ, 1 Corinthians 14:1-5.
2) Paul wrote of their inferiority, to the gift of charity or Christian love. The apostle picks out several spiritual gifts to illustrate how without love: 1) we make nothing (just noise), 2) we are nothing, and 3) we profiteth nothing.
3) We will outline and discuss the gifts he uses as his illustrations.
4) Here is our text of emphasis. Stay connected: beloved church. Paul begins with--
C. The gift of tongues. He wrote: "Though I speak with the tongues of men and angels, and have not charity, I have become a sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal," 1 Corinthians 13:1. His meaning--
1. I might be blessed with the gift of speaking in tongues, and my eloquence might surpass the speech of men and angels; but, if it is without love: "I am making nothing but noise," 1 Corinthians 13:1.
2. If my gift of speech and preaching be without "love." I become "a sounding brass and a tinkling cymbal." I become a nocent! I am causing harm, injury, or damage. I am insignificant (with little or no meaning) in my words and deeds.
3. The gift of tongues: The one, who spoke with tongues, spoke languages that he had never learned, Mark 16:17. This person had the same talent as the apostles on the day of Pentecost, Acts 2:1-4; Acts 2:6-8.
a. Sometimes, these utterances were not understood by the audience.
b. When such was the case; there was given to another the gift of the interpretation of tongues: the ability to explain the meaning of those who spoke with tongues.
c. The church was given strict adherence to the exercising of tongues. If no interpreter is present in the assembly, the tongue speaker must remain silent, 1 Corinthians 14:27-28.
4. Paul wrote: "And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped? For if the trumpet gives an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle? So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? For you shall speak into the air. There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification. Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be unto him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh shall be a barbarian unto me," 1 Corinthians 14:7-11. In like manner--
5. If I speak in a tongue and have not charity, I am making nothing. There is no distinct sound, no warning, and no words of enlightenment. I am making nothing but noise, none of which is to the glory of God or the edification of the church. Without charity, we are not:
a. Making disciples of the Lord.
b. Restoring the erroring or those that have fallen away.
c. Edifying the saints, we are just making noise up in this house!
d. Benefiting anyone with our gifts or benevolence.
e. Communicating, we are out of touch, and in some cases, out of mind.
f. Conclusion: It is the charitable heart, not an articulate tongue, which is acceptable unto God, our heavenly Father. Paul specifies this gift first because, among these saints, they seemed to value themselves for having them and despising those who lacked tongue-speaking talent.
6. The world has witnessed our hypocrisy, bigotry, hatred, and racism. Our children no longer hear nor abide in our words and spiritual guidance; because they have seen our misconduct and hateful behavior to "those people." This is a sneaky way bigots speak of blacks and other people of color (when they talk among themselves), despitefully.
7. Conclusion: Our lessons and classes taught on Sunday morning and evening are full of poems and recitals; and not the scriptures' truth. We are merely rhyming and chiming in our discourses with elegant tongues of men and angels.
a. Such teaching and preaching are what Paul describes as: "Good words and fairs speeches (that) deceive the hearts of the simple," Romans 16:17-18.
b. The human heart and speech are absent of truth, and a genuine love for God, self, one's fellow-man, and for the brotherhood of Christ.
c. Their speech and actions are the same behaviors: which betray and expose them, before the world and the church; as only hearers of the word; but, not doers of the teaching or deeds, James 1:22-25.
d. Beloved, brethren, John wrote: "My little children let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deeds and truth," 1 John 3:17-18. If a genuine charity does not fill our assemblies, our preaching, and our works of benevolence, then we are just making noise and nothing else. We are not glorifying God, or the Lord, in our vain and empty religious practices, Matthew 5:16; James 1:26-27.
e. Stand before the church. They stand before the church while leading prayers, overseeing the communion and offering services, and welcoming visitors to the assembly. When in fact, these men should stand before the church and ask for prayers that God would forgive their hateful rhetoric and ungodly behavior, sown throughout the entire week everywhere. Paul continues with--
D. The gift of prophecy. He wrote: "And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing," 1 Corinthians 13:2. His interpretation--
1. Charity is above the gift of prophecy. Paul now turns to the talent of prophecy. He wrote: "But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all...to another prophecy...But the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills," 1 Corinthians 12:7-11.
2. If I have the gift of prophecy. There were those in the assembly that had this gift. However, they were to be used: "decently and in order," 1 Corinthians 14:40. There was no gift of the Holy Spirit, which surpassed the excellence of charity. Furthermore, when they were used, if not done with charity, the recipient became nothing. Paul wrote: "I am nothing" if love does not motivate and direct my actions. Let us not love in words but deeds and truth!
a. The prophet was one who, under divine revelation, spoke words given to him by the Holy Spirit. No gift of the Spirit was given for the benefit of the recipient. The ability to prophesy was given to edify the church, not the one who had been endowed with this gift, 1 Corinthians 14:1-3; 1 Corinthians 14:39.
NOTE: Illustrate, The office of the Presidency, Congress, and the Courts, are given to the holders for the benefits of the people, and not those who hold the office. Those who profit from these offices are "nothing" because their selfishness opposes their charity and true benevolence.
b. The prophets would speak in turn. If one that sat by received a revelation, he would remain silent until the other has imparted the truth from the Holy Spirit, 1 Corinthians 14:29-31. Then he would speak his words of prophecy.
c. The spirit of the prophet: "Are subject to the prophets," 1 Corinthians 14:32. The prophet waited his turn in silence; he was not compelled to speak at once, for his spirit of prophecy was subject to him (under his control). The Holy Spirit did not urge him to interrupt another prophet's speaking. He was under command to be in silence until the other prophet has ended his revelation of truth. This was done to avoid confusion and disorder in the assembly of Christ.
d. Paul concludes: "For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints," 1 Corinthians 14:33; 1 Corinthians 14:40. When they exercise their supernatural gifts with love, this is profitable unto the church for edification rather than arrogance. Paul continues--
3. If I understand all mysteries of the faith. In the same manner, if they lack charity, this makes the recipient's gift and work to no avail. Again, the gifts were given to edify the church and not to elevate the persons exercising them.
4. If I have all knowledge of the word of truth, that I could teach without error what had been revealed to me by the Spirit, but still lacked true charity, I am worthless, I am nothing.
5. And though I have all faith so that I could speak and remove mountains. Paul does not write here of the belief which comes by hearing, Romans 10:17.
a. But that faith which carried with it the miraculous powers of healing and casting out devils, Matthew 17:20-21; Mark 16:17-20.
b. To this recipient was given the same healing power and other signs, just like the apostles.
c. However, just like the previous gifts, if these works of faith lack charity, they were nothing.
d. Conclusion: Even these gifts such as a clear and deep understanding of the prophecies, knowledge of all the mysteries of Christ, and faith to move mountains: are without significance if they are absent of a benevolent and charitable heart.
1) It is not excellent knowledge that God sets His value upon, but sincere love, one for another manifested out of a pure heart fervently.
2) You might be a graduate of an acceptable college or university, possessing the ability and talent to speak with significant influence and clarity. But if your heart is full of deceit and hatred for others, your words avail nothing to those who hear them, nor to you who make great oration with them.
3) It is not how freely, nor finely, nor learnedly, do we speak the word of God that will save us or even profit others if these words are destitute of truth and love when presented in the name of the Lord. However—
4) David wrote: "Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer," Psalms 19:14.
6. And if I have not charity (love), I am nothing. The word "nothing" in Gr., is oudeis or ü-da's, which means: i.e., no one, "a nobody," or becoming nothing. So is it today! If we have great talent in teaching and preaching: yet are not disposed or arrayed with charity; then, we are nothing, and our preaching is without merit.
7. It is not vital how much talent we have in understanding the prophecies and the mysteries of the scriptures; or how much knowledge and faith we claim. Instead, how much these blessings influence our behavior towards one another and in our walk of faith. Hear Paul--
a. He reminds us: "For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world...that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works," Titus 2:11-14; Ephesians 2:10.
b. James warns us: "If anyone among you thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue (he) deceives his own heart, this one's religion is useless. Pure religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their troubles, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world," James 1:26-27. Paul concludes-
E. The gift of Alms. He continues: "And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing," 1 Corinthians 13:3. His explanation--
1. If I bestow (give away) all my good to feed the poor. He finally turns his attention to ones giving their gifts to the poor; and sacrificing their own body for others' well-being. If we give all our goods to feed the poor and do it not out of charity, it profits us nothing.
2. If I give my body to be burned, on an altar of sacrifice. If I lay down my life for others, and do it not in love, Romans 12:1-2. My gift shall be in vain.
NOTE: Illustrate, Monk poured over his head and body gasoline and ignited it in the center of the street, in Saigon, South Vietnam, in June 1963. It profited him nothing. His body was offered in protects; and not in love for his country. He took his life; he did not give it in sacrifice for others' in genuine love.
3. And I have not charity, a genuine love. Faith must work through real charity for all men if it will avail anything for us, and glorify the name of the Lord Jesus, Galatians 5:6; 1 Thessalonians 1:3.
a. Paul wrote: "Let love be without dissimulation (hypocrisy). Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. Be kindly affectionate one to another with brotherly love; in honor preferring one another... Distributing to the necessity of the saints; given to hospitality," Romans 12:9-13.
1) Real Christians look out for, and care for, one another, Philippians 2:1-4.
2) They love and care for their enemies as well, Romans 12:19-21; Proverbs 25:21-22; Matthew 5:44.
3) I hope and pray we become better people and do justly unto all men!
b. Peter wrote: "Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently," 1 Peter 1:22-23.
c. Jesus taught: "For if you love them which love you, what reward have you? Do not even the publicans the same? And if you salute your brethren only, what do you more than others? Do not even the publicans so? Be you, therefore, perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect," Matthew 5:46-48.
4. It profiteth me nothing. Paul insists that we might give away all our worldly goods; and give our body to be burned, but if it is not done with genuine love, it profiteth us nothing. Jesus taught of our almsgiving:
a. Alms done before men: "Take heed that you do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. Therefore when thou doest thine, Alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and the streets, that they may have the glory of men. Verily I say unto you: They have their reward. But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly," Matthew 6:1-4; Proverbs 20:6.
b. Pharisees justified before men. Jesus said: "Unto them: You are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of God," Luke 16:15; Proverbs 16:5. Jesus taught--
1) They seek to be highly esteemed before men, Luke 16:15.
2) They seek the honor from men, John 5:44.
3) They love the praise of men, more than from God, John 12:42-43.
c. God will not forget. He will reward each for their gifts unto God and men.
1) Jesus said: "And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward," Matthew 10:42; Matthew 25:40.
2) Paul wrote: "For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labor of love, which ye have shewed toward His name, because ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister," Hebrews 6:10; Hebrews 13:2.
3) Paul again: "Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God," 1 Corinthians 4:5; Matthew 7:1-2.
4) God's judgment will be righteous, and ours also must be unto all men, John 7:24
5. Conclusion: Without genuine love as its foundation, our gifts and sacrifices are empty and vain and profiteth us nothing.
a. You might work in the food bank in your community or give yourself in sacrifice to others; but, if love is not the fundamental reason for your actions, these deeds of kindness profiteth you nothing.
b. Indeed, it is more: "blessed to give than to receive," Acts 20:35.
c. However, if love is absent from our work and our gift, it profiteth us nothing. If we leave charity out of our religion and faith, the most precious service and devotion to others will be of no avail to us. If we give away all we have while bestowing it to others without love unto God and men, it will not profit us anything.
d. Paul wrote: "The churches of Macedonia...in a great trial...abounded unto the riches of their liberality...And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God...Therefore, as ye abound in everything, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also," 2 Corinthians 8:1-7. He admonishes the church at Corinth to abound in giving generously, as they have already abounded in all spiritual gifts. We are now ready to consider charity's potentials. Paul continues in his letter to the Corinthians, outlining charity's potentials unto these saints. Observe--
II CHARITY'S POTENTIALS
A. Charity's potentials. The apostle wrote: "Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth, not itself, is not puffed up, Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things," 1 Corinthians 13:4-7. Paul shows the readers how charity, "behaves towards the saints and all men." Here is a list of things charity does. These are favorable potentials. Observe--
1. Charity suffers long. The verb "suffers" long in Gr., is makrothymeo or mä-kro-thü-me'-o, which means to be long-spirited, i.e., forbearing or patient:—bear (suffer) long, be longsuffering, have (long) patience, be patient, patiently endure.
a. It endures slights and wrongs patiently and for long periods; and returns it in a kindly spirit and a loving attitude.
b. David wrote: "The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in mercy," Psalm 103:8. It can be aroused, but only for just causes, John 2:13-17.
c. Christ, "when he was reviled, reviled not again," 1 Peter 2:23.
d. Paul wrote: "The fruit of the Spirit is longsuffering," Galatians 5:22.
e. Peter wrote: "The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance," 2 Peter 3:9; Acts 17:30-31.
2. Charity is kind. The verb "kind" in Gr., is chresteuomai or khra-styü'-o-mi, which means to show oneself mild, to be kind, use kindness. To conduct yourself useful, i.e., act benevolently:—to be kind.
a. Therefore, love is kind and tender-hearted toward his neighbor and his enemies, Ephesians 4:31-32; Colossians 3:12-14.
b. It is compassionate and considerate to the hurt and weakness of others.
c. Solomon wrote: "The law of kindness is in her lips," Proverbs 31:26; Proverbs 12:4. The virtuous woman, her heart is large, and her hand is always open. She is ready to show favors and to do well unto all people. Observe--
1) She seeks to be useful and not only seizes on opportunities of doing deeds of kindness but searches for them in every moment of the day and night.
2) What a blessed woman, a loving and caring sister! In such a woman, any man could place his trust in all things she proposes and does.
3) I would to God the church and the world were full of men and women such as this one in Solomon's Proverbs.
3. Charity thinks no evil. The verb "thinketh" no evil, in Gr., is logizomai or lo-ge'-zo-mi, which means to take an inventory, i.e., estimate:—conclude, (ac-) count (of), despise, impute, to reason, reckon, or suppose, and to think (on).
a. To reckon inward, count up or weigh the reasons, to deliberate.
b. The idea of "not thinking evil" in the RSV is that love does not keep a record of the evil done against him to render it reprisal to others.
c. Charity, on the other hand, "overcomes evil with good," Romans 12:21.
4. Charity rejoiceth in the truth. The verb "rejoiceth" adjoined to the preposition, "in the truth," in Gr., is sygchairo or sün-khi'-ro, which means to sympathize in gladness, congratulate:—rejoice in (or with) the truth. It means to bear witness gladly to the truth. Charity rejoices with the truth in its triumphs. Paul reminds us: "For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth," 2 Corinthians 13:8; Galatians 4:16.
5. Charity beareth all things. The verb "beareth" in Gr., is stego or ste'-go, which means to roof over, i.e., to cover with silence (endure patiently):—to (for) bear, and to suffer. Charity is our cover to protect us from that which threatens, to bear us up, enabling us to hold out and endure all trials and difficulties of life.
a. Charity bears up despite all things evil and is not overcome.
b. Charity enables bears up against the tides of evil; it is a rock amidst the battering waves of afflictions, Psalms 34:19.
c. The Lord is our Rock: "Strength, He is the saving refuge of His anointed...He saves, blesses His inheritance; shepherd them also, and bear(s) them up forever," Psalms 28:1-9.
d. He's also the Rock, and foundation on which we stand, 1 Corinthians 10:4; 1 Corinthians 3:11.
e. David wrote, the Lord: "Has been my defense, and my God the rock of my refuge," Psalms 94:22; Psalms 121:1-8. The Lord is the Rock of our faith, hope, and charity! Amen, elder Doors.
6. Charity believeth all things. The verb "believeth" in Gr., is pisteuo or pe-styü'-o, which means to have faith (in, upon, or concerning, a person or thing), i.e., to entrust (especially one's spiritual well-being to Christ):—believe (-r), commit (to trust), to put one's trust. Charity is not distrustful and suspicious. This person can be accepted and can trust the words or promises of God and their fellow-men.
a. This kind of faith holds marriages together; churches commit their monies to the brethren in good work, never doubting the faithfulness of others.
b. This person believes in tomorrow; and "walks by faith, and not by sight," 2 Corinthians 5:7.
c. This person believes in the power of prayer: "And all things, whatsoever you shall ask in prayer, believing, you shall receive," Matthew 21:22.
d. This kind of love trusts the ones you love. It's not like one brother who told me: that he had to learn to trust his wife. I asked, what do you mean?
NOTE: Illustrate, Do you trust your wife? He said: Yes, I follow her all day. What? How? Do you follow her in your car? No, he replied. I ask, please explain. He said: After she stops, she parks the car and turns off the motor. I wait for the car door to open and shut. I quietly lift myself and look out to see where I am and where she is going. That's why I can trust her. Are you in her car? Yes. Where, in the back seat? No. I said: Man, where were you hiding? He said: In the trunk. (Wait for laughter).
7. Charity hopes all things. It is hopeful instead of sad and hopes for the best. How hard for a loving father to give up hope for his recreant (disloyal and wayward) Son. The prodigal's father was hopeful and believing while waiting patiently for his Son to return home, Luke 15:11-32.
NOTE: Download our lesson: Son, Come to the House, from Sermoncentral.com, Ron Freeman, Evangelist. It speaks to this kind of father!
8. Charity endures all things. It takes patience, persecution, and suffering without complaints or judging others. The cardinal quality of endurance is true grit, moral strength, and unyielding persistency: against all challenges, trials, and circumstances.
NOTE: Illustrate "If He Does This One More Time, I'm Leaving.
B. Paul also shows his readers how charity "does not behave towards saints and all men." Here is a list of things charity "does not do." These are unfavorable potentials. These potentials will require a lot of work on our part. Observe--
1. Charity envieth not. The verb "envieth" in Gr., is zeloo or za-lo'-o, which means to have the warmth of feeling for or against:—affect, covet (earnestly), (have) desire, (move with) envy, be jealous over, (be) zealous (-ly affect).
a. To be heated or to boil with envy, hatred, and anger, 1 Corinthians 13:4. Such rage and bitterness must be: "Put aside and desire the sincere milk of the word, that you may grow thereby if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious," 1 Peter 2:1-3.
b. Yet, in a good sense, it also means to be zealous in the pursuit of good, 1 Corinthians 12:31; 1 Corinthians 14:1.
c. How miserable is that envy which is made unhappy by the good fortune of another.
d. Charity permits the spirit of men to rejoice over the success and good fortune for others; and, to weep with those that weep," Romans 12:15.
2. Charity does not vaunt (eth) or (parade) itself. The word "vaunteth" in Gr., is perpereuomai or per-pe-ryü'-o-mi, which means to be a braggart; to boast:—vaunt itself. This person boasts of self; he is always on self-display, employing rhetorical embellishments to extol (praise) himself excessively before others, Proverbs 10:3.
a. Charity does not arrogantly boast of any superiority. It does not parade itself before others. It does not behave to be seen of men. Its deeds and works are done to glorify their heavenly Father, Matthew 5:16.
b. The Pharisees. Jesus said: "The scribes and Pharisees sit in Moses' seat. Therefore whatsoever they tell you to observe; that observe and do, but do not do according to their works; for they say, and do not do. For they bind heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they will not move them with one of their fingers. But all the works they do is to be seen by men. They make their phylacteries broad and enlarge the borders of their garments. They love the best places at feasts, the best seats in the synagogues... And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted," Matthew 23:1-12; Luke 18:14.
c. They widen their phylacteries and enlarge the borders of their garments. Phylacteries were two small leather boxes containing slips of paper with scriptures written on them, traditionally worn by Jewish men during morning weekday prayers, as reminders of their religious duties. Regarding these--
d. B. W. Johnson wrote: "A band was drawn over the forehead, or around the arm, and to this was attached a small calfskin box, in which were placed passages of Scripture...The passages (was) worn so ostentatiously... To make them "broad" was to enlarge the case containing the Scripture...The fringes worn as enjoined were to remind them "of doing all the commandments. (They) enlarge these (borders) (to) make them more conspicuous, (to be seen of men)," Page 120.
e. They would parade themselves among men, to be seen of them, and to present themselves as more righteous and pious than others in their observance of the Law. All this was done to receive the praise of men. Jesus said: "They have their reward!" They loved the praise of men more than the glory of God.
3. Charity is not puffed up. The verb "puffed up" in Gr., is physio or fü-se-o'-o, which means to inflate, i.e., to make proud (arrogant):—puff up. To be puffed up, to bear one's self loftily, to be proud, to be high minded. Charity does not have an inflated ego. It walks humbly before God and men, Micah 6:8; 1 Corinthians 4:6.
4. Charity does not behave rudely. The verb "to behave" itself unseemly, in Gr., is aschemoneo or ä-skha-mo-ne'-o, which means to be (i.e., act) unbecoming:—behave self-uncomely (unseemly). Charity does not act unbecomingly (disrespectful or rude) towards others. It does not behave discourteously and in such a way to debase good manners or Christian morality.
5. Charity does not seek its own. The verb "seeketh," not her own in Gr., is zeteo or za-te'-o, which means to seek after, seek for, aim at, strive after its own will or way. Charity is unselfish and disinterested in self but is concerned with the well-being of others, Romans 12:10.
6. Charity is not provoked. The verb "easily provoked" in Gr., is paroxyno or pä-ro-ksü'-no, which means to sharpen alongside, i.e., to exasperate:—easily stimulate, or stir. To irritate, provoke, or arouse into anger.
a. Charity does not fly into a fit but keeps ones' temper under control.
b. The word is also used in a manner "to stir up" in one spirit, Acts 17:16.
NOTE: Illustrate No drama, President Obama. As opposed to Donald J. Trump!
7. Charity does not rejoice in iniquity. The word "iniquity" in Gr., adikia or ä-de-ke'-ä, which means injustice; immoral (character, life or act):—iniquity, unjust, unrighteousness, wrong.
a. Love does not indulge or sanction such behavior. It exposes and condemns unrighteousness and sinful actions. It does not cover up or overlook such evil conduct.
b. Instead of rejoicing in the truth, love is filled with sadness and heartache during the sickness and suffering of all saints and their families.
c. It weeps with those that mourn for their loss or during times of despair and rejoices with those that rejoice: in their time of prosperity and success.
NOTE: Illustrate Care of the Medical Community during the COVID-19 pandemic. These men and women should receive our prayers and thanksgiving for their dedication to helping the sick and ill in their hospitals and medical facilities.
C. Application. Charity seeks to good of others always.
1. It is never engaged in the hurt and mistreatment of any person or their families.
2. These potentials, when sought after, will strengthen and grow the church of the Lord and bring peace to all men throughout the entire world.
NOTE: Illustrate the Catholic Bishops and Cardinals rebuke to the President-Elect Joe Biden's position on Abortion. I want to ask them, where was their anger and discuss, when children were taken from their mothers, and, displaced; and others caged by the HHS and DHS throughout America?
a. They were silent during the entire abuse of this President! I declare they are hypocrites and not the servants of the Lord.
b. They care about the unborn fetus but neglect children already born and suffering at the hands of abusive people to deter and deny their asylum.
c. Men and women confessing faith in God cannot be silent when people are suffering and dying. But these men and women are silent as the tombs.
3. The entire Catholic and Evangelical communities are void of true love for God, their neighbors, and themselves. Their care for people of color is selfish and vain!
D. Husbands and wives. If husbands and wives did these things, their marriages would be a blessing and filled with joy. Husbands are to love their wives. Observe—
1. Paul wrote of the husbands:
a. Husbands: "Love your wives, even as Christ loved the church and gave himself for it," Ephesians 5:23-26.
b. Husbands: "Love your wives, and be not bitter against them," Colossians 3:19.
c. Conclusion: Husbands are to love their wives and be not bitter against them. Solomon wrote: "Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favor of the Lord," Proverbs 18:22; Proverbs 19:14.
2. Paul wrote of the wives:
a. Wives: "Submit yourselves unto your husbands, as unto the Lord," Ephesians 5:22. In the same manner, you submit yourself unto the Lord.
b. Wives: "And the wife sees that she reverence her husband," Ephesians 5:33.
c. Wives: "Submit yourselves unto your husbands, for it is fit in the Lord," Colossians 3:18.
d. Conclusion: Wives are instructed to submit unto their husbands and respect them as the head and provider of her and the family. However, all saints should be in submission one to the other, Ephesians 5:21; 1 Peter 5:5.
3. Peter wrote:
a. Likewise, "Ye wives, be in subjection to your husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives," 1 Peter 3:1-2. Be a good example before your husband and others.
b. Likewise, "Ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honor unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered," 1 Peter 3:7.
c. Solomon wrote: "Hatred stirs up strife, But love covers all sins," Proverbs 10:12. Love does not overlook or sanction sin; but, it willingly forgives (covers) sins.
d. Peter concludes: "And above all things have fervent love for one another, for "love will cover a multitude of sins," 1 Peter 4:8; James 5:19-20.
E. Churches did these things. If churches did these things, their assemblies would be filled. If members did these things, there would be peace and fellowship among brothers and sisters. Consider--
1. Maybe if we can reach these potentials, we could be a blessing to others in our jobs, schools, universities; and, even our homes and neighborhoods.
2. God's love will never fail in His care and provisions for His children.
3. Nor should our love ever fail each other during any crisis or challenge in life.
4. The one thing that holds marriages, families, and churches together – is a love that abounds. Therefore, let love abound in every grace, one to another, 2 Corinthians 8:7; Philippians 1:9-11; 1 Thessalonians 3:11-13. Now, let's consider our last point in this lesson, charity's permanence.
III CHARITY'S PERMANENCE
A. Charity's permanence. Paul wrote: "Love never fails," 1 Corinthians 3:8a. The superiority of love over all is shown by its survival of all with which it is compared. It is eternal and imperishable. We would be wise to consider each of these words in their original language. Observe--
1. Love. The love we have considered already in this lesson. It is superior to all spiritual gifts. It is attainable to all saints. Unlike spiritual talents, they were given as the Holy Spirit wills. On the other hand, love must be sought after, coveted, and grown within the human heart. O' to be more like Him – Jesus, in all things!
2. Never. The gift of love shall always be necessary for a Christian's growth and spiritual development. Love will permit us to grow in grace and knowledge, 2 Peter 3:17-18.
3. Fails. Love shall never fail. God's love shall always be available to sustain us during any situation or trial in our lives.
a. Jesus will never forsake us, always being ready to comfort our hearts and assure our walk with Him.
b. The Holy Spirit will guide us first in understanding His revelation of truth and then during our walk of faith. Paul reminds these saints: "That we walk by faith; not by sight," 2 Corinthians 5:7.
c. And saints must grow to love each other as we love ourselves, Matthew 22:37-40. We must learn to love God, our neighbors, and ourselves to fulfill the "Royal Law of Love," James 2:8.
B. Prophecies shall fail. "But whether there are prophecies, they shall fail," 1 Corinthians 13:8b. It will be necessary to look at this text in its original language. Observe--
1. The word prophecies. The term "prophecies" in Gr., is propheteia or pro-fa-ta'-ä, which means to prediction (scriptural or other):—prophecy, prophesying.
2. The phrase "shall fail" in Gr., is katargeo or kä-tär-ge'-o, which means to be entirely idle (useless) to:—abolish, cease, destroy, do away, become of no effect, fail, (come) to naught, put away, vanish, or to make void, etc.
3. Prophecy's temporal nature. Whether there are prophecies, they shall fail. Paul advises the saints that the gift of prophesying shall end. We know that it has long since been done away.
4. What is not revealed? What can a man say now in unveiling any new revelations? We know the mind of God altogether. We have His entire disclosure. Any other words of alleged revelations shall fail.
NOTE: Illustrate World will end in 1914, as alleged by the Jehovah's Witnesses. Such prophecies and predictions will continue to fail. These are not the revelations of God. We have what we need and need that which we have!
5. Know in part. "For we know in part, and we prophesy in part," 1 Corinthians 3:9. These gifts were to pass away because our knowledge was then only partial, and the prophecy only gave us glimpses. Here a little, and there a little, Isaiah 28:9-11.
a. These were then imperfect and fragmentary and hence must give way to something better. That is to the "perfect" which was to come!
b. That which is perfect! We must look at the word "perfect." It has given much room for others to make false and misleading suppositions.
c. The word "perfect" in Gr., is teleios or te'-la-os, which means to be complete (in various applications of labor, growth, mental and moral character, etc.); completeness:—of full age, man, and perfect.
d. It does not refer to the second coming of Christ! Some contend, such as the case, and they continue their misuse and abuse of the scriptures that have long passed away. We will speak more about this later in the lesson. Paul continued--
C. Tongue shall cease. "Whether there are tongues, they shall cease," 1 Corinthians 13:8c. The gift of speaking in unknown tongues was fleeting. Paul wrote of a temporal nature of such languages to the church. Recall--
1. Tongues. There will be no more a need for tongues in the work of the ministry. The Lord would have delivered His entire revelation unto the world. Remember, tongues are merely other languages granted to the apostles and others to communicate Christ's revelation.
2. Tongue speaking was temporary. These were needed to speak to the nations, in their language, Acts 2:6-8; Acts 2:11. Tongue articulating in the Gr., is glossa or glo's-sä, which meant the tongue; by implication, a language (especially, one naturally un-acquired):—tongue.
a. These were discernable gifts of languages spoken for the teaching, comforting, and edification of the church!
b. They were designed to instruct, teach, and grow the saints in the word of God.
c. These tongues were given, not learned, or obtained through teaching or instruction to speak in such languages. They were granted by the Holy Spirit, as He wills unto the believers.
3. They shall cease. The word "cease" in Gr., is pauo or pau'-o, a primary verb which means to stop, i.e., to restrain, quit, and desist, to come to an end:—cease, leave, or refrain. These were not designed to remain but to have an end. Paul mentions--
D. Knowledge will vanish. "Whether there is knowledge, it shall vanish away," 1 Corinthians 13:8d. This, too, was temporal for the church of Christ.
1. Knowledge. The word "knowledge" here in Gr., is gnosis or gno'-ses, which means knowing (the act), i.e., (by implication) knowledge:—or science. This was a supernatural knowledge, granted as a spiritual gift, and it too would vanish or pass away: not the languages, but the divine imparting of tongues to the believers.
2. Vanish away. The phrase, vanish away in Gr., is also katargeo or kä-tär-ge'-o, which means to be (render) entirely idle (useless) to:—abolish, cease, destroy, do away, become (make) of no (none, without) effect, fail, loose, bring (come) to naught, put away (down), vanish away, or make void, etc.
a. All these were only granted while the church was in an immature state.
b. Once the church had reached adulthood; these would vanish away!
c. To desire these gifts is to infantize (make the church) a child again.
3. When a child. "When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child." The infantized church could only speak, understand, and think like a child. It had not yet grown-up; therefore, it behaves like a babe! Spiritual gifts were necessary for the infant church. Once it has reached adulthood, such spiritual gifts would no longer be needed and vanish away.
4. When I became a man. "But when I became a man, I put away childish things," 1 Corinthians 13:11. What were the childish things? Here they are--
a. Tongue speaking. In the Hebrew assembly, no tongues were required because all that attended were Jewish members. In the Greek community, when only Greek's were present, no divine imparting of languages was needed. However, when the Galilean men spoke to the audience assembled on Pentecost, from every nation under the heavens, tongues were necessary and divinely granted, Acts 1:11-12; Acts 2:1-4. To understand this further—
1) The Limited Commission. Jesus told His twelve: "Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter you not: But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And as you go, preach, saying: The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, and raise the dead, cast out devils: freely you have received, freely give," Matthew 10:5-8. When you speak to your nation, you do not need the gift of tongues! However in--
2) The Great Commission. Such gifts were needed. Jesus said unto the eleven: "Go you into the entire world and preach the gospel to every creature...And these signs shall follow them that believe. In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues: They shall take up serpent; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover," Mark 16:15-18; Acts 28:3-6. Not all believers were given such gifts.
3) Conclusion: In the Limited Commission, the disciples were going unto their nation, Israel. Therefore, they did not need to be given "other tongues" to speak unto the Jews, Acts 22:1-2; Acts 22:9; Acts 26:14. However, when the apostles spoke on Pentecost; and, the disciples went into the entire world, they would need the "gift of new tongues" to communicate with the people of these nations, Acts 2:5; Acts 2:11; Acts 14:11-12; Acts 21:37-40. Once the gospel message was given to all countries and governments, the need for such tongues would cease.
b. Prophecies. In the same fashion, prophets would foretell of events that were to be, and those who were sent of God, such events would occur, Acts 11:27-30; Acts 12:24-25; Acts 13:1-3.
c. Divine knowledge. Through the "laying on of hands" by the Apostles, divine wisdom, gifts of tongues, and prophecy could be granted to the Holy Spirit's subjects, Hebrews 2:1-4; Corinthians 12:4-11; 1 Timothy 4:14; 2 Timothy 1:6. These were all given that the church might be edified, 1 Corinthians 14:3-4; 1 Corinthians 14:12; 1 Corinthians 14:26.
d. In these verses (1 Corinthians 13:8-10), the change Paul declared will take place is illustrated: by the church's spiritual evolution from childhood to manhood. The speech, thoughts, and feelings of the child are given way to the full-grown adult man.
1) So is it when the church moved from childhood to full adulthood in its development. The Law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul, Psalms 19:7.
2) The infantized church will always need help; it will never grow in its ability to help others or to share the message of Christ unto the world. I wish I had some help right about now!
3) Those today claiming to have these spiritual gifts have digressed into an infantized institution while claiming to be the first-century church. Today, these institutions claim they have the blessings of tongues, prophecy, and divine knowledge. But they are used to deceive and bewitch its members. They want to appear more spiritual and learned than all other believers. They have nothing, they know nothing, and their false claims are nothing!
NOTE: I put away childish things. Childish things must be put away. In many assemblies of the church of Christ, there are yet "bottled babies," Hebrews 5:12-14. Still, too many saints are unable to: "discern between good and evil." The need is for the man of God to preach more lessons containing "meat" instead of "milk." Amen, somebody!
4) However, once it had matured, it would no longer need the "miraculous spiritual gifts"; that brought it from its infancy to its maturity. They have all been done away, as promised by Paul in the Letter to the Corinthians.
5) To desire "miraculous spiritual gifts" over the "revelation of God;" can be referred to as consulting, the instructions for a "Lego Toy Building," to construct a massive multistory high-rise, rather than the architect's "master blueprint," the word of God. I wish I had some help right about now!
6) The perfect or complete is the word of God; it "shall never fail or pass away," 1 Peter 1:24-25; Isaiah 55:11; Isaiah 34:16; Matthew 24:35. But now we--
5. See things darkly. "For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known," 1 Corinthians 13:12.
a. The mirrors of the ancients were of polished brass and were far inferior to ours. The images were indistinct in comparison. They were seen darkly, indistinctly, imperfectly. Thus in this state of our knowledge of divine things were imperfect and incomplete.
b. But then face to face. We will not look in a glass then; but, we will see and be seen face-to-face: without a veil or any obscurity.
c. Now I know in part. There were limitations upon Paul's knowledge; only a portion was seen and understood at any given moment.
d. But then, when the veil is taken away, and the full revelation has come in the presence of Christ, he shall know fully, know God, eternity and its secrets, even as he is known to God. Thus it is shown that all these spiritual gifts are fleeting. This will occur when that which is perfect shall come. And what is that? Observe--
E. Perfect has come. Paul concluded: "But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part shall be done away," 1 Corinthians 13:10. This verse will take us to new heights in the word of God. We must first define the phrase: "that which is perfect." Stay with me, beloved of the Lord!
1. When the perfect comes. The word "perfect" in Gr., again, is teleios or te'-la-os, which means to be complete (in various applications of labor, growth, mental and moral character, etc.); neuter (as a noun), completeness:—of full age, man, and perfect. It does not refer to the second coming of Christ!
a. When that which is perfect has come, then the partial knowledge and prophecy will be done away and vanish. The imperfect will give way to the perfect; the perishable to the enduring.
b. The "perfect" for some is expected at the second coming of Christ.
c. Others think it came when the church was fully matured since the unique gifts then ceased. If there is a reference to this, the final and complete authority is to the glorified church.
d. Spiritual gifts were given to direct, guide, and lead the infant church until the final and complete revelation was given. This was and is the "word of God." The inspired word of God can save; convert, perfect, and equip the believer unto "all good works," 2 Timothy 3:16-17.
e. The word of God; is capable of "building up the saints," Ephesians 4:12. The word gives them "an inheritance among all them which are sanctified," Acts 20:32; 1 Corinthians 6:11. God's word is all we need to understand and do His divine will. Observe--
2. Paul mentions it. He wrote: "And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: That we henceforth are no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive. But speaking the truth in love may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ," Ephesians 4:11-15. Observe—
a. First, Christ gave the church: "Some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers." These are leaders and teachers!
b. Further, for what purpose? "For the perfecting (teleios) of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ."
c. Next, Why? "That we henceforth be (are) no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive."
NOTE: Paul also wrote to the Hebrew brethren regarding no longer being: "babes" drinking milk entirely and being: "full-grown" mature men eating meat, Hebrew 5:12-14. Both "nepios" and "teleios" are used in these passages. Their meaning, being "no longer infants" but being of "full age or completely mature," having their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
d. Again, How? "But speaking the truth in love may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ."
e. Finally, possible when: "Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you: but that ye be perfectly (teleios) joined together in the same mind and the same judgment," 1 Corinthians 1:10; Philippians 3:16.
3. James mentions it. He wrote: "But you are to be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your selves. For if any be a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect (teleios) law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed," James 1:22-25.
4. Parts have been done away. What are the parts? Therefore, the perfect law of liberty is that which was to come. After which, the pieces would be done away. These were as mentioned earlier. The--
a. Prophecies. This was needed to propagate the message and divine revelations of Christ.
b. Tongues. These were needed to speak to the nations in their language.
c. Divine knowledge. This was also needed to unfold the message still hidden to the world of Jesus Christ.
d. However today, we are encouraged to: "Study to shew ourselves approved unto God, workmen that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth," 2 Timothy 2:15; 2 Timothy 3:16-17.
5. There abides. He concludes: "And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love," 1 Corinthians 13:13. But now we see in a glass darkly. But now, there abideth faith, hope, and love. These three shall survive. They are eternal.
a. They continue to exist in the church and shall not fail in its glorified state.
b. As long as the redeemed saint shall have future ages before him, so long will trust in God and hope give them brightness, while love itself is the very atmosphere of the divine life.
c. The greatest of these is love. The greatest because it glorifies both faith and hope, sanctifies every faculty and Christian grace, is the vital and glorious part of the gospel, and is the one quality divinely given. This enduring quality of love is from Him, the very "God of love." What were they? Observe--
1) Faith. The beloved apostle Paul wrote: "Faith is the substance of things hope for, and the evidence of things not seen," Hebrew 11:1.
a) Faith is the fundamental principle into the things which we hope for, and continue to believe they shall be granted as the Lord has promised.
b) We do not see them. We hope for the fulfillment of these things.
c) Just as Abraham: "Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations according to that which was spoken: So shall thy seed be. And being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about a hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sarah's womb: He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; and being fully persuaded that, what He had promised, He was able also to perform. And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness," Romans 4:18-22.
2) Hope. Paul again: "And not only they but ourselves also, which have the first-fruits of the Spirit, even we groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body. For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for it? But if we hope for that se see not, then do we with patience wait for it," Romans 8:23-27.
3) Charity. We will permit the apostle John to close this out. He wrote: "Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God, and every one that loveth is born of God and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought to love one another," 1 John 4:7-11.
4) B. W. Johnson wrote: "But now abideth faith, hope, (and) love. These three shall survive. They are eternal. They continue to exist in the church, and shall not fail in its glorified state: (as) long as the redeemed saint shall have future ages before him, so long will trust in God and hope give them brightness, while love itself is the very atmosphere of the divine life...Love...The greatest because it glorifies both faith and hope, sanctifies every faculty and Christian grace...the gospel, and is the one divine quality. 'God is love,'" Page 419.
d. Conclusion: Here we have it. From now on, until we see the Lord, we will have faith in His word and promises. Hope shall make us not ashamed, but through patience, we believe we shall receive the promises of Christ. And when there, before Him are eyes are permitted to view, no longer will faith and hope be necessary, in that, we now experience the blessed promise: "Christ in you is the hope of glory," Colossians 1:27; Ephesians 3:17-21. These shall forever endure and abide in the love of God and Christ: which passes all understanding. And won't it be wonderful there! As I conclude, let me review what we discussed in this lesson. Recall--
CONCLUSION
A. Outline.
1. Charity's Preeminence
2. Charity's Potentials
3. Charity's Permanence
B. Summarize main points.
1. First, we considered "the preeminence of charity." By this, we meant how greater love is to all things. Paul gave us three illustrations in describing loves' preeminence. He wrote: 1) It is above all the eloquence of the gift of tongues of men and angels; 2) It is above the gift of prophecy, the understanding of all mysteries and all knowledge and having faith that you can move mountains; and 3) It is more critical than one giving all his goods to feed the poor, and giving his body to be burned. Without love as its motivation, these acts or deeds are empty and vain. We are making nothing, we are nothing, and we profiteth nothing.
2. Second, we noticed "the potentials of charity." Paul showed the readers how love ought to behave, how charity suffers long and is kind; how it envieth not, it does not parade itself, and love is not puffed up. Love does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, and thinks no evil. It does not rejoice in iniquity but rejoices in the truth; it bears all things, believes all things, hopes in all things, and endures everything. If husbands and wives did these things, their marriage would be a blessing. If churches did these things, their assemblies would be filled. If members did these things, there would be peace and fellowship among brothers and sisters. Maybe if we can reach these potentials, we could be a blessing on our jobs, in our schools and universities, and even in our neighborhoods.
3. Lastly, we investigated the "permanence of charity." Paul wrote: "Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they shall fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. We know in part and prophesy in part; but when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away. When I was a child...I put away childish things...And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love. We now know the lasting relationship of the love of God unto His children. There now abides faith, hope, and charity." When faith has given way to sight and hopes to experience, then that which will remain and endure is "charity" throughout all eternity. And won't it be wonderful there – in heaven with our heavenly Father, our precious Lord, and loving Holy Spirit? If you desire this hope, let me explain how to receive it, to enjoy it now and throughout all eternity!
C. Invitation. Present the pattern of conversion, H.B.R.C.B.
D. Exhortation.
E. Motivation.
References:
1. Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible, by Matthew Henry, Christian Classics Ethereal Library, Grand Rapids, MI, 1706.
2. The People's New Testament, by B. W. Johnson, Christian Publishing Company, Grand Rapids, MI, 1891.
3. The New Greek-English Interlinear New Testament; United Bible Societies,' Fourth, Corrected Edition, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, IL, 1990.
4. Textus Receptus, taken from the Greek Text of Stephens 1550, The Englishman's Greek New Testament, Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids, Michigan, First Zondervan Printing, 1970.
5. Clarke Commentary on the Bible, Eight Volumes, Published 1810-1826, New York, Published by J. Emory and B. Waugh, for the Methodist Episcopal Church, at the conference office, 13 Crosby-Street., J. Collord, Printer, 1831.
6. Vine's Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words, by W. E. Vine, Fleming H. Revell Company, Old Tappan, NJ, Copyright, 1981.
7. Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary copyright, 2015 by Merriam-Webster, Incorporated; Springfield, Massachusetts, 01105.
8. Merriam-Webster Online Thesaurus copyright, 2015 by Merriam-Webster, Incorporated; Springfield, Massachusetts, 01105.
9. Smith's Bible Dictionary, William Smith, Grand Rapids, MI: Christian Classics Ethereal Library, Printing 1884.
10. The Pastor's Manual, by J. R. Hobbs, B & H Publishing Group, One Lifeway Plaza, Nashville, TN, 37234, Published, 1940.
11. The Standard Manual for Baptist Churches, by Edward T. Hiscox, D. D., Philadelphia: American Baptist Publication Society, 1420–1422 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA, Published, June 1903.
12. How to be Born Again, by Billy Graham, Word Publishing, Dallas, Texas, Copyright 1977, 1989.
I submit this verse unto you as I: "Render therefore to all their dues: tributes to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; and honor to whom honor, (is due)," Romans 13:7. I acknowledge my consultation with these distinguished authors in this lesson.
Ron Freeman, Evangelist
ronald.e.freeman@wwmchurchofchrist.org
Website: https://wwmchurchofchrist.org/
Website: https://en.gravatar.com/refreeman
