M-W-F Bible study: 1 Corinthians 13:1-3

In the 70's there was a contemporary Christian song based on 1 Corinthians. I believe it was titled "Charity". My sister and I shared an 8-track tape of a group who recorded this song, and I would listen to it over and over. 8-track tape -- now that's how old I am!! Anyway, listening to that song helped me memorize 1 Corinthians as a teen.

1 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. 2 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. 3 If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing. 

(the following is from Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary -- www.christnotes.org)

"Chapter Contents

The necessity and advantage of the grace of love. (1-3) Its excellency represented by its properties and effects; (4-7) and by its abiding, and its superiority. (8-13)

Commentary on 1 Corinthians 13:1-3

The excellent way had in view in the close of the former chapter, is not what is meant by charity in our common use of the word, almsgiving, but love in its fullest meaning; true love to God and man. Without this, the most glorious gifts are of no account to us, of no esteem in the sight of God. A clear head and a deep understanding, are of no value without a benevolent and charitable heart. There may be an open and lavish hand, where there is not a liberal and charitable heart. Doing good to others will do none to us, if it be not done from love to God, and good-will to men. If we give away all we have, while we withhold the heart from God, it will not profit. Nor even the most painful sufferings. How are those deluded who look for acceptance and reward for their good works, which are as scanty and defective as they are corrupt and selfish!"