1 Corinthians 13:7

1 Corinthians 13:7 New King James Version (NKJV): 

bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 

This verse is part of the Apostle Paul’s famous discourse on love in 1 Corinthians 13, often referred to as the “Love Chapter”. In the Reformed Evangelical tradition, this passage is understood in the context of God’s love for us and our call to reflect that love to others. 

Bears All Things “Bears all things” suggests a love that covers over an offence, or patiently accepts the imperfections of others. This reflects the teaching in 1 Peter 4:8, “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” 

Believes All Things “Believes all things” does not imply gullibility, but rather a readiness to believe the best of others, giving them the benefit of the doubt. This aligns with the teaching in James 2:8, “If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, ‘Love your neighbour as yourself,’ you are doing right.” 

Hopes All Things “Hopes all things” speaks to the forward-looking nature of love. It’s about keeping hope and trust in God’s promises, even in difficult circumstances. This is echoed in Romans 5:5, “And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” 

Endures All Things “Endures all things” refers to the perseverance that love brings. It’s about staying steadfast and not giving up, even when faced with trials and tribulations. This is reflected in James 1:12, “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” 

In terms of its application to modern Christian living, this verse calls Christians to show a love that is patient, trusting, hopeful, and enduring in all aspects of life. It’s a reminder that our interactions with others should be characterized by this kind of selfless, sacrificial love, which ultimately reflects the love that God has shown us through Christ. 

This understanding is consistent with the teachings of Reformed Evangelical Christianity, which emphasises the sovereignty of God, the authority of Scripture, and the necessity of grace through faith in Christ. The love described in 1 Corinthians 13:7 reflects God’s love for us, and our call to express that love to others is a key aspect of the Christian life.