Chapter 13 is usually referred to as the "Love Chapter." It is often read at weddings and most people associate it with marriage. But the context is the Bible is far different. Paul's Love Chapter lies within the a discussion of the use of spiritual gifts in the church.
Chapter 13 tells us that we are to love others in the church - all others. All of the attributes of love must be present as we interact with others in our local church. We can not have a passing acquaintance kind of relationship with others in the church - we are to actively love them in observable fashion.
This is how Christ has loved us - this is how we are to love his people:
If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, 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. Love never fails.
Now, go and become an active involved member of your church and love the other members like above. You can do so as you reflect on how much God loves you and how much He has done for you.
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