Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:27–31

Introduction

A. There is perhaps nothing more unbecoming than immaturity in adults, but this is exactly what Paul was seeing in the church in Corinth.

B. Although Paul did offer solutions to these individual problems, his entire letter reaches its climax in chapter 13, where he gives them the solution—love.

Discussion

I. The problems in Corinth betrayed a serious lack of maturity.

A. They were being prideful (1 Corinthians 4:7–8; 2 Corinthians 10:10).

B. They were filled with envy (1 Corinthians 3:3; 12:4–14).

C. They were being selfish (1 Corinthians 6:1; 8:4–13).

II. The key to maturity is love.

A. Love teaches us to give up childish ways (1 Corinthians 13:11).

B. Immature people cannot love the same way that others can (2 Corinthians 12:14–15).

C. Love is the ultimate solution for problems that stem from immaturity (1 Corinthians 14:1).

Conclusion

A. Without love, nothing else really matters (1 Corinthians 13:1–3; 8:1).

B. Love is the greatest thing there is (1) because it will always endure (13:8) and (2) because “God is love” (1 John 4:8).