What’s Love Got to Do with Selfishness?
July 19, 2026

What’s Love Got to Do with Selfishness?

Preacher:
Passage: 1 Corinthians 13:1-11 (NRSV)
Service Type:

Kevin delivered a sermon on 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, focusing on the nature of agape love and its contrast with selfishness. He explored the different lenses through which people view and need love. He addressed the tension between agape love being other-oriented and the need to care for oneself, noting two common misinterpretations of the passage. Kevin explained that if someone brings a lens of self-doubt about meeting love’s standards, it can lead to misinterpretation of the text. He discussed Paul’s observations about the Corinthian church, noting that while Paul didn’t question the sincerity of their faith, he criticized their selfish motivations in serving God. Kevin explained that Paul identified this as a maturity issue, using the analogy of childhood development to illustrate how spiritual growth requires allowing agape love to take control and address areas of spiritual immaturity. Kevin emphasized that while people can engage in religious activities like studying scripture and attending church, true spiritual growth requires allowing love to mature within them. He highlighted the role of community and vulnerability in spiritual growth, sharing personal examples of his own struggles. The sermon concluded with a prayer, urging the congregation to invite the Holy Spirit to help them overcome selfishness and live out God’s love.

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