Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Commentary: 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Reading of 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 through the lens of God's covenantal love, as revealed in Christ. This passage is not merely a list of moral virtues but reflects the character of Christ, who embodies perfect love. In the redemptive-historical context, these verses culminate in the love displayed in the person and work of Jesus, who fulfills the law and prophetic love anticipated in the Old Testament. The love described here is the fruit of the Spirit, cultivated in us through our union with Christ and the work of sanctification, an outworking of God's sovereign grace in the life of the believer.

Key Language Decisions

In the Greek, the word 'agape' is used, which we understand as a selfless, sacrificial love that mirrors the love of Christ for his church. The choice of 'agape' rather than other forms of love underscores the divine nature of this love, which is not generated by human effort but by the Spirit's work as part of our sanctification. The semantic range of words like 'patience' (makrothumei) and 'kindness' (chresteuetai) highlights the enduring and active nature of this love, rooted in God's covenant faithfulness.

Where Traditions Diverge

Our Reformed reading emphasizes God's sovereign grace and the covenantal framework, whereas Arminian traditions might focus more on human effort and decision-making in expressing love. Unlike some Wesleyan readings, which might see this love as attainable through human striving, we affirm that it is a fruit of the Spirit, cultivated through our union with Christ and rooted in God's sovereign work in our hearts.

Pastoral Application

In preaching this passage, we emphasize that this love is the evidence of God's sovereign work in us, not a checklist for self-improvement. It is a call to reflect Christ's love, made possible by our union with Him and the Spirit's transformative power. Our congregation should be encouraged that this love is not something we manufacture; it is the outworking of God's covenantal promise to conform us to the image of His Son. We remind our people that as we abide in Christ, His love flows through us, demonstrating the reality of our salvation to the watching world.

Cross-References: John 15:12-13; Ephesians 5:1-2; Galatians 5:22-23; 1 John 4:7-10; Romans 5:5

Doctrinal Connections: Covenant of Grace; Sanctification; Union with Christ; Fruits of the Spirit; Sovereign Grace