Love | Orderly Worship

By: R. Nicholas Sybrowsky

Opening Word & Main Text

1 Corinthians 13 [NIV]

"If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have 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 do not have love, I am nothing. 3 If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing. 4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 8 Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part, 10 but when completeness comes, what is in part disappears. 11 When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. 12 For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. 13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love." (Cite 1)

Sermon Thesis: Orderly Worship

Invocation:

Lord, teach us what real love is and make us loving people. (Cite 2)

Introduction:

This main text is another one of the mirrors within scripture that we can compare ourselves to in reflection, like that of Ps. 1. Reflection in scripture can help us to see the truth about God, the truth in our environment and the truth we live. These epistles to the Church at Corinth from Paul are profound. Today I’d like us to examine the text of chapter 1 Cor.13 to begin helping us get a grip on what love is & is not. The apostle was led to share a response with the messy dramatic church in Corinth of which he helped plant. When the epistles to Corinth are examined closely you will discover that the church there was in big trouble and much of what is in the letters is Paul defending his Apostleship, providing direction, correction and encouragement to his followers. According to Paul they were limited by their lack of love. Let’s unpack the excellent way of love in this chapter!

Before we get into “The necessity of using the Gifts in Love”. Let’s try to understand where Paul is coming from. To better understand this chapter on the ‘yet…a more excellent way’ [12:31 MEV] we really need to get into the context. What’s happening here in Corinth? We can begin to understand this by simply reading the two chapters on either side of 1 Cor. 13.

Before we dive into chapter 12 and 14 how about some brief background. Corinth, an ancient city of Greece, was in many ways the most prominent Greek city of Paul’s time. As one might find in many of today’s prosperous cities, Corinthians were extremely proud of their intellect, could boast of great wealth and were morally corrupt. Every kind of wickedness and corruption was found in this city that was known for satisfying its every desire. It’s no wonder why one of the special features characterizing 1 Cor. is that it is the most problem-centered letter in the NT. In addressing the various problems and issues in Corinth, Paul gives clear & enduring spiritual principles that still have meaning & application for all Christian churches today.

1Co 14:26-40 Good Order in Worship (Principle).

Spiritual Gifts.

“[1Co 12:1 NIV] 1 Now about the gifts of the Spirit, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed.”,

Paul responds to a question regarding the Gifts of the Spirit. It’s become clearer for me in time with the text that Paul is responding to a report from this church plant. That report arrived in person verbally or most likely via a letter. So, here we observe Paul leading into clarifying a distinction between Spiritual Gifts for the Ministry of the church & the Manifestations of the Holy Spirit through individual believers. Which brings us to my first point today.

1. Spiritual Gifts for the Church promote Order not Chaos:

Most of you desire to be an Acts 2 church. This is a very good desire, even Paul said so in Chapter 14. Let me describe what I mean by “Acts 2 church.”

[Acts 2:1-21 NIV] 1 When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. 5 Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. 6 When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard their own language being spoken. 7 Utterly amazed, they asked: "Aren't all these who are speaking Galileans? 8 Then how is it that each of us hears them in our native language? 9 Parthians, Medes and Elamites; residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, 10 Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome 11 (both Jews and converts to Judaism); Cretans and Arabs--we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!" 12 Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, "What does this mean?" 13 Some, however, made fun of them and said, "They have had too much wine." 14 Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: "Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say. 15 These people are not drunk, as you suppose. It's only nine in the morning! 16 No, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: 17 " 'In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. 18 Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy. 19 I will show wonders in the heavens above and signs on the earth below, blood and fire and billows of smoke. 20 The sun will be turned to darkness and the moon to blood before the coming of the great and glorious day of the Lord. 21 And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.'

Geography Map Explained:

The Nations of Pentecost Map by Jesus Walk Used with permission

Location of Corinth Unique for Commerce Map by Jesus Walk Used with permission

Cite 3

Instead of the LORD knocking down a tower of Babel confusing the language of the people (Gen. 11) God sends tongues of fire that build up His strong tower in the temple body His people (2 Co 7:1), His church. An explosive empowerment that carries the message of Jesus’ death & resurrection which are not FICTION. This supernatural event was very real, chaotic to the carnal like that of Corinthians. We see the gifted Apostle Peter in faith take a stand to promote order explaining the supernatural manifestation. As read in Acts 2.

2. Apostleship is a ministry gift of the church.

We all know or ought to know that Apostles are those who are specifically commissioned by the resurrected Lord to establish the church and the original message of the Gospel. Such as the original 12 Disciples and Saul who became Paul on the road to Damascus.

As a fellowship we believe that there are Apostles among us that we consider any messenger commissioned as a missionary or for other special responsibilities. Some examples are my friends & Patch members supporting HonorBound Motorcycle Ministry (HBMM). These Chaplains are AG missionaries to the Biker world. A realm full of clubs, associations & families. A few lifestyle bikers & families that like any citizen in society can occasionally get mixed up in outlaw activities, unfortunately. Biker’s need Jesus too!

We have some other examples of apostleship in our midst & we give support to the many listed in our foyer. Such as the Boys & Girls Mission Challenge (BGMC), Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA)—Dove Creek Huddle, Robert & Carolyn Stone within Adult & Teen Challenge and 180 Ministries, Church Partnership within our Network’s “Go Rural” initiative, Sarah’s Home & Daniel Academy, Curtis & Teresa Hubbel of HBMM International and Larry & Rhonda Allen—Fingerprints in Zimbabwe, Africa (Thy Kingdom Come, Go Dove Creek!: Missions)

Prayer: God bless the Apostles on the edge of fringe culture and life. Empower them with your merciful spirit and wisdom. And all of God’s people said, Amen.

Other examples of ministry gifts of the Holy Spirit for God’s church are: Those described in various scriptures outside of 1 Corinthians, such as in Rom. 12:6-8 & Eph. 4:11. Prophet, Evangelist, Pastor (Elder or Overseer), Teacher, Deacon, Helper, Administrator, Encourager, Giver & Comforter. For more on Gifts visit this article called Spiritual Gifts | Identity

3. Watch out for false imitation of the supernatural.

2Co. 11:14 “And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.” (NIV).

If we are to be an Acts 2 church, we must be aware of the adversary who cloaks Himself in light. At times it may seem as though your Pastor or another leader within the body is thwarting or dampening the Holy Spirit’s baptism hindering the movement of God, but like Peter, I want us to be orderly about the manifestations. As a church we must be ready to steward the outpouring and respond appropriately. It’s not a fear of True Tongues, but a caution to False Tongues and false healing. When deliverance occurs, we must be ready as a church to give direction to new believers. They need instruction in the born again experience so as to avoid becoming worse off (Mt 12:45 & Lk 11:26). We must be ready to explain the supernatural and steward the life in Christ, testing the manifestation against scripture, lifestyle and testimony.

When ‘Manifestations of the Holy Spirit Through Individual Believers’ occur, we must be ready to ask, is this from God? Is this valid? Is this in alignment with the individual’s commitment to Christ and the authority of God’s Word? Are they attempting to obey the Word? Do they deny the Deity of the Lord Jesus Christ? Jesus put it this way, “…for the tree is known by [his] fruit.” (IAW Mt. 12:33 & Lk 6:44 KJV)

Let me explain briefly what I mean by False Tongues. Speaking in “other tongues,” or the showing of any other supernatural activity, is not necessarily undeniable proof of the Holy Spirit’s work and presence. What appears to be speaking in tongues might not be of God. It can be an imitation of real experience or occurrence by human effort or demonic activity.

In such an instance or case, it is considered false and/or counterfeit. The Bible cautions us not to believe every spirit or what seems to be a spiritual expression (1Jn 4:1). Instead, we should examine whether a spiritual experience or manifesting really does come from God. The Holy Spirit explicitly warns that in the last days before Jesus returns, there will be several forms of deception within the church. Can we listen to what John said about this? What he says about Denying the incarnation.

[1Jo 4:1-6 NIV] "1 Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. 2 This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, 3 but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world. 4 You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. 5 They are from the world and therefore speak from the viewpoint of the world, and the world listens to them. 6 We are from God, and whoever knows God listens to us; but whoever is not from God does not listen to us. This is how we recognize the Spirit of truth and the spirit of falsehood."

[1Jo 4:7-21 NIV] "7 Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. 8 Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. 9 This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. 10 This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. 11 Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 12 No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us…"

John continues to describe real love that aligns well with the rest of the Bible. Verse 18 he says,

"18 There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. And verse 21 [The LORD has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister."

This is a good place to transition to the next and final point for us today.

4. Gifts & Manifestations are null & void without love.

Ps. 133:1 “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity! (NIV)

The Ministry Gifts of the Church and the Manifestations of the Holy Spirit are void, pointless or even destructive (Mt 12:45 & Lk 11:26) when attempted without love.

The types of manifestations Paul is referring to in chapter 13 are individual gifting’s such as a Message of wisdom, a Message of knowledge, Faith & Healing. A service to an individual, but not a Ministry gift of the Church. Not the fruit of the Spirit either of which is more like character attributes that develop via sanctification. No, these are supernatural manifestations.

Again, for more on gifts such as a Message of wisdom, a Message of knowledge, Faith & Healing. Study your Bible and read this supplication the article here called Spiritual Gifts | Identity

We’ve briefly covered the types of manifestations of the Holy Spirit through individual believers, let’s get into today’s text regarding love more directly. This 13th chapter from Paul isn’t the only place within scripture to observe the topic of love. The word "love" occurs 574 times in 526 verses in the NIV. We know from researching the original Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek languages that there are various forms and contexts in the use of the word love.

There are 40 Lexiconic entries that match love.

• 20 Hebrew/Aramaic Results

• 20 Greek Results

(Cite 1 BLB)

Interpersonally. According to the book, the 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman. We have many forms of love language, and he suggests that we as a people typically use 5 primary forms and each of us has a preference of expression. We each usually have a primary and secondary. What’s your love language? Dr. Chapman in his book describes Words of Affirmation, Receiving Gifts, Acts of Service, Quality Time & Physical Touch as the 5 main languages of mankind (Cite 4).

I recommend this book or one from the series of books. This is a studious way to learn what your love language is, and you'll see that Dr. Gary describes that there could be many dialects of love language just like that of spoken word or language. What’s the love language of your spouse, siblings, parents, boss or neighbor? What are your love languages? What kind of love is the Apostle referring to in this chapter?

Let’s cut to the chase. Strong's Number G26 matches the Greek ἀγάπη (agapē) Pronounced: ag-ah'-pay This is the root word used by Paul. What does this root word mean?

I.affection, good will, love, benevolence, brotherly love

II.love feasts

I.A.W. Nave's Topical Bible there are 83 addresses in the Word. Where we can study this type of love that Paul is referring to, which is

III. Love: Of Man for Man:

IV.

I.Lev 19:18, 34; Deu 10:19; Psa 133:1-3; Pro 10:12; 15:17; 17:9, 17; Sgs 8:6, 7; Mat 5:41-47; 7:12; 10:41, 42; 19:19; 25:34-40; Mar 9:41; 12:30-33; Luk 6:31-35; 10:30-37; Jhn 13:14, 15, 34, 35; 15:12, 13, 17; Rom 12:9, 10; 13:8-10; 1Cr 8:1; 13:1-13; 14:1; 16:14; 2Cr 8:7, 8; Gal 5:13, 14, 22, 26; Eph 5:2; Phl 1:9; 2:2; Col 2:2; 3:12; 1Th 1:3; 3:12; 4:9; 1Ti 1:5, 14; 2:15; 4:12; 6:2; 2Ti 2:22; Tts 3:15; Phm 1:12-16; Hbr 10:24; Jam 2:8; 1Pe 1:22; 2:17; 3:8, 9; 4:8; 2Pe 1:7; 1Jo 2:9-11; 3:11, 14, 16-19, 23; 4:7, 11, 12, 20, 21; 5:1, 2; 2Jo

1:5

In addition to the Agape’ that Paul refers to. In the Greek language there are 7 other types of love useful to expanding your perspective of real love.

The Pleasant Relationship .com

Conclusion:

Principle: Worship services should be conducted in an appropriate & orderly manner 14:40

1. Spiritual Gifts for the Church promote Order not Chaos

2.Apostleship a one ministry gift of the church

3. Watch out for false imitation of the supernatural.

4. Gifts & Manifestations are null & void without

Real love and the other fruits of the spirit (Gal 5:22) are critical ingredients for effective ministry for the propagation of God’s Kingdom come.

We conclude with a 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 affirmation

Dove Creek is patient.

Dove Creek does not envy.

Dove Creek does not boast.

Dove Creek is not proud.

Dove Creek is not rude.

Dove Creek is not self-seeking.

Dove Creek is not easily angered.

Dove Creek keeps no record of wrongs.

Dove Creek doesn’t delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.

Dove Creek always protects, always trusts, always hopes & always perseveres.

Lord, teach us what real love is and make us loving people. (Cite 2)

Exhortation:

As the Spirit enables us, let’s be an Acts 2 church that obeys the Word, that propagates the Kingdom of God with Jesus Christ at the center of it all.

Benediction:

[Jhn 16:33 NIV] 33 "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

Holy Father, I know that you love us, we love you in return. May our love truly bring you honor and glory as we seek to love our neighbors. May the people that observe Valentines Day come to know real love. Teach us to love in a way that cares for the needs of others and honors you. Thank you, Father, for glorifying your Son Jesus Christ. Whom you granted authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him. May we come to know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent. May we begin to experience eternity now and sustain readiness for heaven. Have your glory on earth by finishing the work you gave Jesus to do. (Jn 17:1-4) I know that, as we learn to love you with all our mind, spirit and strength. In this we will come to know how much you love us. In turn we will know how to truly love others in the way that meets their needs and honors you. And all of God’s people said, Amen.

Sources, Credits, Citations & Notes:

Translations used NIV, MEV and the source of Blue Letter Bible.com
Love Dare Devotion (365 days) by the Kendricks Brothers
Maps: Jesus Walk. Also used Fire Bible map from Zondervan
The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman
Types of Love According to the Greeks (8) Types of Love Infographic by The Pleasant Relationship.com | Article Surabhi Kedia Writer of Types of Love According to the Greeks & Understand It's Meaning Reviewed by Julianne Cantarella, MSW, LSW, Certified Relationship Coach Sep 12, 2023.

Soli Deo Gloria | “Glory to God Alone”

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