“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.” — 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (NIV)
In a world where love is often reduced to fleeting emotions, romantic feelings, or conditional agreements, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 stands as the timeless, divine definition of true love. Written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Corinth, these verses unveil what scholars call agape love—the selfless, unconditional, sacrificial love of God that flows through believers by the Holy Spirit.
This passage isn’t just poetic language for wedding ceremonies. It is God’s practical blueprint for how Christians are called to love—in marriage, friendships, family relationships, and even toward strangers and enemies. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 reveals that genuine love is not a feeling we fall into, but a choice we make, empowered by Christ.
Whether you’re seeking to strengthen your relationships, heal from past hurts, or understand what God-honoring love truly looks like, this comprehensive study will illuminate every attribute of biblical love and show you how to live it out daily.
The Complete Passage: 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (Multiple Translations)
1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (New International Version – NIV):
“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.”
1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (King James Version – KJV):
“Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.”
1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (English Standard Version – ESV):
“Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”
Note: In the KJV, the word “charity” is used instead of “love.” Both translate the Greek word agape, which refers to selfless, unconditional, divine love.
Understanding the Context of 1 Corinthians 13
Who Wrote This Passage and Why?
The Apostle Paul wrote his first letter to the church in Corinth around AD 53-55. The Corinthian church was plagued by:
- Division and factions (1 Corinthians 1:10-12)
- Spiritual pride over gifts (1 Corinthians 12)
- Immorality and lawsuits among believers (1 Corinthians 5-6)
- Disorder in worship services (1 Corinthians 11, 14)
In 1 Corinthians 13, often called “The Love Chapter,” Paul addresses the root issue: without love, even the greatest spiritual gifts and achievements are worthless.
The Structure of 1 Corinthians 13
- Verses 1-3: The supremacy of love over spiritual gifts
- Verses 4-7: The characteristics and attributes of love (our focus)
- Verses 8-13: The permanence and eternal nature of love
Paul sandwiches this chapter between teachings on spiritual gifts (Chapter 12) and prophecy/tongues (Chapter 14) to emphasize that love is the “more excellent way” (1 Corinthians 12:31) that must govern how believers use their gifts.
What Is Agape Love?
The Greek language has four words for love:
- Eros – Romantic, passionate love
- Storge – Familial, affectionate love
- Philia – Brotherly friendship love
- Agape – Selfless, unconditional, sacrificial love
Agape is the word used in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7. It is the love God has for humanity and the love He calls Christians to demonstrate. This love is:
- Not based on feelings but on a decision of the will
- Unconditional and not dependent on the worthiness of the recipient
- Sacrificial and willing to give without expecting anything in return
- Supernatural and only possible through the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5)
Breaking Down 1 Corinthians 13:4-7: A Comprehensive Analysis
“Love is patient” (Greek: makrothumeō) – Longsuffering and Slow to Anger
Meaning:
The Greek word makrothumeō means to be long-tempered, to endure offenses without retaliating. It is the opposite of being quick-tempered or impulsive.
Biblical Examples:
- God’s patience with humanity: Romans 2:4 says, “God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance.”
- Abraham’s patience: Waiting 25 years for the promised son, Isaac (Genesis 15-21)
- Jesus’ patience: With His disciples who repeatedly misunderstood Him (Mark 8:17-21)
Application:
- In marriage: Being patient with your spouse’s growth and imperfections
- In parenting: Giving children grace as they learn and mature
- In ministry: Bearing with immature believers without losing hope
Reflection Question: When was the last time I showed patience instead of frustration toward someone?
“Love is kind” (Greek: chrēsteuomai) – Actively Good and Generous
Meaning:
The Greek word chrēsteuomai means to show oneself useful, to act benevolently. Kindness is not passive; it is active goodness and generosity toward others.
Biblical Examples:
- The Good Samaritan: Who showed kindness to a stranger in need (Luke 10:25-37)
- Jesus healing the sick: Moved by compassion, He healed and fed multitudes (Matthew 14:14)
- Ruth’s kindness to Naomi: Refusing to abandon her mother-in-law (Ruth 1:16-17)
Application:
- Perform random acts of kindness without expecting recognition
- Speak words of encouragement instead of criticism
- Help those who cannot repay you (Luke 14:12-14)
Reflection Question: How can I demonstrate active kindness to someone in need today?
“Love does not envy” (Greek: zēloō) – Free from Jealousy
Meaning:
The Greek word zēloō means to be jealous or to covet. True love does not resent others’ blessings or success but rejoices with them.
Biblical Examples:
- Joseph’s brothers’ envy: Led them to sell him into slavery (Genesis 37:11)
- King Saul’s envy of David: Resulted in murderous rage (1 Samuel 18:8-9)
- Jesus’ warning: “Guard against all kinds of greed” (Luke 12:15)
Application:
- Celebrate others’ achievements without comparing yourself
- Resist social media comparison traps
- Trust that God’s plan for your life is perfect (Jeremiah 29:11)
Reflection Question: Am I genuinely happy for others’ success, or do I secretly resent it?
“Love does not boast, it is not proud” (Greek: perpereúomai, phusióō) – Humble and Modest
Meaning:
Perpereúomai means to brag or be a windbag, while phusióō means to puff up or inflate oneself. Love rejects arrogance and self-promotion.
Biblical Examples:
- Jesus’ humility: “I am gentle and humble in heart” (Matthew 11:29)
- John the Baptist: “He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30)
- Pride comes before a fall: Proverbs 16:18
Application:
- Give credit to God for your gifts and accomplishments
- Avoid name-dropping or excessive self-promotion
- Practice humility in speech and actions (Philippians 2:3)
Reflection Question: Do I seek glory for myself or give glory to God?
“Love does not dishonor others” (Greek: aschēmonéō) – Respectful and Dignified
Meaning:
Aschēmonéō means to act indecently, to behave rudely or shamefully. Love treats others with dignity and respect, never humiliating or degrading them.
Biblical Examples:
- Jesus defending the adulterous woman: “Let him who is without sin cast the first stone” (John 8:7)
- Joseph protecting Mary’s honor: By not publicly shaming her (Matthew 1:19)
- Paul’s instruction: “Outdo one another in showing honor” (Romans 12:10)
Application:
- Refuse to gossip or slander others
- Speak respectfully, especially in disagreements
- Protect others’ reputations and dignity
Reflection Question: Do my words build others up or tear them down?
“Love is not self-seeking” (Greek: zēteō ta heautēs) – Selfless and Others-Focused
Meaning:
This phrase means love does not insist on its own way or pursue selfish interests. True love prioritizes the needs of others above personal comfort.
Biblical Examples:
- Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice: “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13)
- Paul’s example: “I make myself a servant to all” (1 Corinthians 9:19)
- Philippians 2:4: “Look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others”
Application:
- In marriage: Sacrificial service instead of demanding your rights
- In friendships: Listening more than speaking
- In conflict: Seeking peace over being right
Reflection Question: Am I willing to sacrifice my comfort for the good of others?
“Love is not easily angered” (Greek: paroxýnō) – Slow to Provoke
Meaning:
Paroxýnō means to be provoked to sharp anger. Love does not have a short fuse or react with rage.
Biblical Examples:
- Moses’ anger: Cost him entry into the Promised Land (Numbers 20:10-12)
- Jesus’ righteous anger: At the desecration of God’s house (John 2:13-17) – note this was controlled, not impulsive
- James 1:19-20: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry”
Application:
- Take a breath before responding in anger
- Address issues calmly and respectfully
- Remember God’s patience with you (Ephesians 4:26-27)
Reflection Question: Do I control my temper, or does my temper control me?
“Love keeps no record of wrongs” (Greek: logízomai kakón) – Forgives and Releases
Meaning:
Logízomai means to reckon, count, or keep a ledger. Love does not keep a mental record of past offenses to use as ammunition later.
Biblical Examples:
- Joseph forgiving his brothers: “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good” (Genesis 50:20)
- Peter’s question: “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother?” Jesus: “Seventy times seven” (Matthew 18:21-22)
- God’s forgiveness: “As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us” (Psalm 103:12)
Application:
- Choose to forgive and release grudges
- Refuse to bring up past mistakes in arguments
- Trust God to be the ultimate judge (Romans 12:19)
Reflection Question: Am I holding onto past hurts instead of forgiving freely?
“Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth” (Greek: adikía/alḗtheia)
Meaning:
Love does not find pleasure in sin or injustice but celebrates righteousness and truth.
Biblical Examples:
- David’s remorse: After confronted by Nathan about his sin (2 Samuel 12:13)
- Paul’s instruction: “Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness” (Ephesians 5:11)
- Jesus as the Truth: “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6)
Application:
- Refuse to participate in or enjoy sinful behavior
- Speak truth in love, even when difficult (Ephesians 4:15)
- Stand for righteousness and justice
Reflection Question: Do I celebrate truth and holiness, or am I entertained by evil?
“Love always protects” (Greek: stégō) – Covers and Guards
Meaning:
Stégō means to cover, shield, or protect. Love guards others from harm and covers their weaknesses.
Biblical Examples:
- Noah’s sons covering their father: Genesis 9:23
- Proverbs 10:12: “Love covers over all wrongs”
- 1 Peter 4:8: “Love covers a multitude of sins”
Application:
- Protect others’ reputations by not exposing their faults
- Stand up for the vulnerable and oppressed
- Guard your loved ones in prayer
“Love always trusts” (Greek: pisteuō) – Believes the Best
Meaning:
Love gives the benefit of the doubt and believes the best about others when possible.
Application:
- Choose to trust until given clear reason not to
- Extend grace instead of suspicion
- Believe in others’ potential for growth
“Love always hopes” (Greek: elpízō) – Never Loses Expectation
Meaning:
Love maintains hope even in difficult circumstances, trusting God’s redemptive power.
Application:
- Never give up on prodigal loved ones
- Believe God can restore broken relationships
- Anchor hope in Christ, not circumstances
“Love always perseveres” (Greek: hupomenō) – Endures to the End
Meaning:
Hupomenō means to remain under, to bear up courageously. Love does not quit when things get hard.
Biblical Examples:
- Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi: Through poverty and loss
- Paul’s endurance: Shipwrecks, beatings, and persecution for the Gospel
- Christ’s love: “Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end” (John 13:1)
Application:
- Remain faithful in marriage through trials
- Continue loving difficult people
- Persevere in ministry despite discouragement
How to Live Out 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 Daily
Practical Steps for Cultivating Agape Love
- Start Each Day in Prayer
- “Lord, fill me with Your love today. Help me love others as You love me.”
- Meditate on This Passage Weekly
- Read 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 slowly, asking the Holy Spirit to reveal areas for growth
- Perform a “Love Audit”
- Rate yourself (1-10) on each attribute of love
- Identify specific areas needing growth
- Practice One Attribute Daily
- Monday: Patience
- Tuesday: Kindness
- Wednesday: Humility
- (Continue through the week)
- Confess and Repent When You Fall Short
- 1 John 1:9 promises forgiveness and cleansing
- Rely on the Holy Spirit
- Romans 5:5: “God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit”
1 Corinthians 13:4-7 in Different Relationships
In Marriage
- Patience: With each other’s imperfections and growth pace
- Kindness: Daily acts of service and affection
- Forgiveness: Releasing grudges and choosing reconciliation
- Perseverance: Staying committed through trials
In Parenting
- Patience: As children learn and make mistakes
- Protection: Guarding them physically, emotionally, and spiritually
- Hope: Believing God’s promises for their future
- Truth: Teaching biblical values consistently
In Friendships
- Not Envious: Celebrating friends’ successes
- Not Self-Seeking: Being there in their time of need
- Trust: Building deep, vulnerable connections
- Always Supports: Loyal through seasons
Toward Enemies
- Kindness: Blessing those who curse you (Luke 6:27-28)
- Not Keeping Record: Choosing forgiveness over revenge
- Rejoicing in Truth: Praying for their salvation
Common Misconceptions About 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Myth 1: “Love means never saying no or setting boundaries”
Truth: Biblical love includes discipline and correction (Proverbs 3:12; Hebrews 12:6). Boundaries protect relationships.
Myth 2: “If I feel love, I’m loving biblically”
Truth: Agape love is a choice and action, not merely a feeling. It requires obedience to God’s commands (John 14:15).
Myth 3: “This passage is only for romantic relationships”
Truth: 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 applies to all relationships—family, friends, church, and even enemies.
Myth 4: “I can love like this in my own strength”
Truth: This level of love is impossible without the Holy Spirit. We must abide in Christ (John 15:5).
Related Bible Verses About Love
John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son…”
1 John 4:8 – “Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.”
Matthew 22:37-39 – “Love the Lord your God… and love your neighbor as yourself.”
John 15:12 – “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.”
Romans 12:9-10 – “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.”
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
What is the difference between agape love and other types of love?
Agape love is unconditional, selfless, and sacrificial—it mirrors God’s love for humanity. Unlike eros (romantic love) or philia (friendship love), agape does not depend on feelings or reciprocation. It is a deliberate choice to seek the highest good of another person, empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Can I truly love like this without being a Christian?
While non-Christians can exhibit kindness, patience, and generosity, the fullness of agape love described in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 is a supernatural gift that flows from a relationship with Jesus Christ. Romans 5:5 says, “God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit.” True agape love requires the transforming work of the Holy Spirit.
How do I love someone who has deeply hurt me?
Loving those who hurt us is one of the most difficult commands in Scripture, but it is possible through Christ:
- Acknowledge the pain honestly before God
- Choose to forgive as an act of obedience (not a feeling)
- Pray for them regularly (Matthew 5:44)
- Set healthy boundaries while maintaining kindness
- Trust God to heal your heart and handle justice (Romans 12:19)
Is 1 Corinthians 13 only about romantic love?
No. While 1 Corinthians 13 is often read at weddings, Paul wrote it to address how Christians should love one another in the church. This passage applies to:
- Marriage relationships
- Parent-child relationships
- Friendships
- Church community
- Interactions with strangers and even enemies
What does “love keeps no record of wrongs” mean in marriage?
This does not mean ignoring abuse or dangerous behavior. It means:
- Not bringing up past offenses that have been forgiven
- Releasing grudges instead of holding onto bitterness
- Forgiving freely as Christ forgave us (Colossians 3:13)
Healthy marriages address issues openly but don’t weaponize past mistakes in future conflicts.
A Prayer Based on 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for defining love so clearly in Your Word. I confess that I often fall short of this standard. Forgive me for the times I have been impatient, unkind, envious, proud, rude, selfish, easily angered, and unforgiving.
Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I may love others as You have loved me. Teach me to be patient and kind. Help me to celebrate others’ successes without envy. Remove pride from my heart and replace it with humility.
Guard my words so I honor others, and make me selfless in all my relationships. Calm my anger and help me forgive quickly. Let me delight in truth and righteousness, always protecting, trusting, hoping, and persevering in love.
Lord, I cannot love like this on my own. I need You. Let Your love flow through me to bless everyone I encounter.
In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.
Conclusion: Love Is the Greatest Commandment
1 Corinthians 13:4-7 is not merely a beautiful poem—it is God’s standard for how His people are called to live. This passage challenges us to examine our hearts and ask: Am I truly loving others the way Christ loves me?
The truth is, none of us can perfectly embody this love in our own strength. But through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can grow daily in patience, kindness, humility, forgiveness, and perseverance. Love is the evidence of genuine faith (1 John 3:18), the fulfillment of the law (Romans 13:10), and the greatest of all spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 13:13).
Today, God invites you to love like Jesus:
- Love your spouse sacrificially
- Love your children unconditionally
- Love your neighbors generously
- Love your enemies courageously
- Love the lost passionately
When you love this way, you become a living testimony of the Gospel—because the world will know we are Christians by our love (John 13:35).
Continue Your Journey in Love
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