THE LOVE OF GOD; II Corinthians 13:14

“If the sinner bows his head at the pierced feet of the Lord because he is overwhelmed by the grace, shall he not be utterly lost in this ocean of the love which is as great and as blessed as God himself?” ^[1]

Like grace, the love of God is a cardinal teaching in Paul’s ministry too. Two words usually translated as love in Paul’s writings are φιλεω (phileo) and αγαπη (agape), and both imply affection. But while the former has sentimental attachment, the latter is unconditional—like what God expressed by sending his only begotten Son to redeem humanity (John 3:16). Through God’s love, Christ died and salvation is extended to us; therefore, we are in faith today because of this unconditional love. But this love is not just for us to enjoy alone, but also for us to express towards others. That is how to love God’s way.

The Corinthians did not do anything to merit the love which Paul prayed for them in this benediction, what qualified them was the believer’s currency, faith. Amidst their numerous wrongs, which Paul earlier pointed out in his first letter, being overwhelmed with grace, they bowed their heads at the pierced feet of the Lord. And the result is this overwhelming and unconditional love which Paul prayed for them.

Divine love is granted to those people who believe and thus are recipients of eternal life.^[2] The word “granted,” implies that this love is not just shown, but the ability to love is also given. It is God’s desire that we not only enjoy the love given but should also show the same to others. This is clearly expressed in Paul’s admonition in I Corinthians 13:1-14.

Love is patient and kind, does not envy, does not boast, is not proud, is not rude, is not self-seeking, is not easily angered, keeps no record of wrongs, does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth, always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres, and never fails. Love is the greatest, and God is Love.

We cannot discuss grace outside love (agape). Unconditional love ushers us into fellowship with the Holy Spirit. Therefore, when we say grace-benediction, we are praying for the grace which connects us to God’s love which qualifies and leads us to fellowship with the Holy Spirit.

The next post is Part 5: THE FELLOWSHIP OF THE HOLY SPIRIT. Remain blessed, till we come your way next time.

Endnotes:

1. Lenski, R. C. H. The Interpretation of St. Paul’s First and Second Epistle to the Corinthians. Columbus: Wartburg, 1946.
2. Kistemaker, Simon J.; Hendriksen, William. New Testament Commentary: Exposition of the Second Epistle to the Corinthians. Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 2001.

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