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If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels,
but have not love, I’m 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 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. 1 Cor. 13:1-3 NIV
The story behind the words:
The city of Corinth was:
• Geographically strategic
• Young compared to “establishment” cities
• Attractive to innovators, investors, high achievers
• Filled with enterprising people from around the world
• Hub of commerce, susceptible to sex and alcohol abuse
This is a reorientation for three kinds of people:
1. To those who think they are “gifted”
Don’t just
(Jesus) “Beware of false prophets disguised as harmless sheep but are really vicious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them.” Matthew 7:15,16b
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Galatians 5:22,23a
2. To those who think they are “ungifted”
Don’t
(Jesus) “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 17:35
3. To those who think they are “good”
Don’t
This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 1 John 4:10,11
Thanks to Tim Keller, “Better Than Miracles,” sermon preached at Redeemer Presbyterian Church, New York City, April 14, 1996.
QUESTIONS For personal reflection or group discussion
1. What was your one big takeaway from this weekend’s message?
2. Read 1 Cor. 13:1-3. Why are amazing gifts and even good deeds “nothing” if we do them without love? How can someone who is super-gifted and extremely righteous still turn people off to Christianity if they are unloving?
3. René mentioned three groups to whom this passage speaks: Those who see themselves as gifted, those who see themselves as ungifted, and those who see themselves as good. Which group are you usually in? For you personally, why is it good to be reminded that love is the most important trait to value, even over giftedness, achievement, or good religious deeds?
LIFE AT TLC
WELCOME LUNCH
Are you new to Twin Lakes Church or do you want to take the next step to get connected or involved? Join us this Sunday 4/7, 12:15- 1:15pm in the College Ministry Building next to Loft Coffee. Lunch is FREE and kids are welcome! Hope to see you there!
MIDWEEK CLASSES
Kick-off is this week - Wednesday, 4/10! There is an amazing lineup up including classes on parenting, heaven, getting past partisan political hatred, and more! Plus classes for singles, Spanish speakers, and brand new believers. Get all the details at tlc.org/midweek. There‘s also a great program for kids! Join us at 5:15pm for dinner ($6 per person or $15 per family); classes start at 6:30pm.
WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY
Spring Session begins 4/8! Step into the vibrant world of 1, 2, and 3 John, where love, truth, and fellowship intersect to illuminate our journey of faith! For more info and to register visit tlc.org/biblestudy.
BAPTISM CLASS
Interested in being baptized on 4/27 or 28? There will be a short baptism class, Saturday 4/13 at 7:15pm or Sunday 4/14 at 10:15am. Go to tlc.org/baptism to sign up!
THE WORD TLC BIBLE CONFERENCE
Details below. Learn more and register at tlc.org/theword
STAY CONNECTED
• To get our daily devos, text tlc to 81411 or visit tlc.org/devos
• To receive our weekly newsletter,go to tlc.org/newsletter
• To receive prayer: tlc.org/prayer
• Participate in today’s offering: tlc.org/give