A Deep Dive into What Love Actually Is

Love is a word that gets thrown around a lot in our world. We use it to describe our favorite food, our family, or even a Netflix series we binge-watch. But when the Bible talks about love—specifically in 1 Corinthians 13—it paints a much deeper, richer, and more sacrificial picture than what we often see in culture. This chapter, often called “The Love Chapter,” is one of the most quoted passages in Scripture, but it’s more than just beautiful poetry for weddings. It’s a roadmap for how we are called to love in every aspect of life. Let’s break down what love truly is according to 1 Corinthians 13.

Love Is the Foundation of Everything

Paul begins the chapter by emphasizing that love is essential. He writes:

"If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing." (1 Corinthians 13:1-2)

In other words, no matter how gifted, knowledgeable, or faithful we may be, it all means nothing if love is absent. Love is not just a side characteristic of the Christian life—it’s the very foundation of it. Everything we do, say, and believe must flow from a heart of love. Without love, our actions are hollow and meaningless.

Love Is More Than a Feeling

In verses 4-7, Paul gives us a vivid description of what love looks like in action:

"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres."

This description shows that love is not primarily an emotion but a choice. It’s about how we treat others, even when it’s difficult. Let’s unpack some of these characteristics:

Patience and Kindness: Love waits. It’s not quick to judge or react. It seeks to show kindness, even when it’s undeserved.

Not Envious, Boastful, or Proud: Love doesn’t compare, compete, or seek attention. It celebrates others’ successes instead of feeling threatened by them.

Not Self-Seeking or Easily Angered: Love puts others first and doesn’t react impulsively in anger. It seeks peace and understanding.

Keeps No Record of Wrongs: Love forgives. It doesn’t hold grudges or keep score of past mistakes.

Rejoices in Truth: Love values honesty and integrity. It doesn’t delight in gossip, lies, or wrongdoing.

Always Protects, Trusts, Hopes, and Perseveres: Love is steadfast. It stands by others in their struggles, believes the best, and never gives up.

This kind of love isn’t based on feelings or circumstances—it’s a commitment to act in a way that reflects God’s heart.

Love Is Eternal

Paul goes on to explain that love is not temporary or fleeting:

"Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away." (1 Corinthians 13:8)

While spiritual gifts and human achievements will eventually fade, love endures forever. Why? Because love reflects the very nature of God.

1 John 4:8 says, “God is love.”

Love is eternal because God is eternal. When we love others, we are reflecting God’s character and participating in something that will last beyond this life.

Love Is the Greatest Command

Paul concludes the chapter with this powerful statement:

"And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love." (1 Corinthians 13:13)

Faith and hope are essential, but love is the greatest because it’s the driving force behind everything God does. It’s what led Jesus to the cross and what compels us to follow Him.

Jesus Himself said in John 13:34-35: “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”

Love is the defining mark of a Christian. It’s how we reflect God to the world.

How Do We Live Out This Kind of Love?

Living out 1 Corinthians 13 love is no easy task. It requires God’s help and the power of the Holy Spirit. Here are some practical ways to apply this kind of love in your daily life:

Ask God to Fill You with His Love: Pray daily for the Holy Spirit to help you love others as God loves you.

Practice Patience and Kindness: Look for opportunities to slow down, listen, and show kindness to those around you.

Forgive Freely: Let go of grudges and choose forgiveness, even when it’s hard.

Celebrate Others: Rejoice in others’ successes instead of comparing or competing.

Speak Truth in Love: Be honest, but do so with gentleness and care.

Persevere in Love: Don’t give up on people, even when relationships are challenging.

Love as a Lifestyle

1 Corinthians 13 isn’t just a poetic passage to read at weddings—it’s a call to action. It challenges us to love in a way that goes beyond emotions and surface-level gestures. It’s about reflecting God’s love in how we treat others every single day.

This kind of love is radical, countercultural, and life-changing. It’s not something we can muster on our own—it requires us to stay connected to God, who is the ultimate source of love.

As you meditate on 1 Corinthians 13, ask yourself: How can I embody this love in my relationships, my community, and my daily life? The answer will not only transform you but also the world around you.

Have questions or concerns about this topic? Send me a message—I’d be happy to continue the conversation with you.