The Love Chapter Experiment

Sunday

Feb012009

Sunday, February 1, 2009 at 1:16PM

The thirteenth chapter of Paul’s first Corinthian letter is sometimes called “The Love Chapter” by Bible commentators. In it, the inspired writer attempts to convey his understanding of love as God would want it–especially as it concerns man’s love for the people around him. Love for God is considered elsewhere and love for self is generally a problem because of surplus rather than shortage, but here we learn that love must be translated into affectionate action toward others if religion itself is to be worth anything at all. Jesus taught as much in the parable of the Good Samaritan when asked, “Who is my neighbor” in response to his command to love such a person as oneself. In making love practical and broad, Jesus commanded, “You go, and do likewise” (Luke 10:37). Love must be impartial and selfless, able to endure when others are behaving in an unlovable fashion so that love can be stronger than hate.

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