“When that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away. “[1]
What is perfect or complete? What is partial? The original word for perfect in the above verse also has the meaning of complete. Earlier in this chapter Paul spoke of great feats such as personal sacrifice and heavenly gifts of prophesying and speaking in tongues. But he does so to emphasize that apart from love these actions are only partially complete and imperfect.
“Now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known.” [2]
Sin has so marred our world that it is difficult to find a clear reflection of God’s love. We can read of the acts of Jesus in the Gospels and acts of the Holy Spirit in the Book of Acts, but our ability to sense all the love of God for us and others in these passages are dull. Therefore, though God is giving us clear pictures via the Scripture and by His Spirit’s presence, we still are not experiencing the depth of love that exists in heaven.
Paul’s prayer for us was that Christ would dwell in our hearts by faith; and that we would be rooted and grounded in Christ’s love. He prayed that we would be able to comprehend with all the saints the width, length, depth, and height of Christ’s love. Christ’s love surpasses knowledge. We need more than book knowledge of Him. We need an ongoing personal relationship with Him. [3]
“Now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” [4]
We will not need faith when we see God face to face. We will not need to hope in the coming of Jesus once He comes. But we will always need love for love is what binds us together. Love is the key ingredient to all wonderful and meaningful relationships. Love perfects that which is partially completed.
“Dear Heavenly Father, please help us experience the fullness of Your love today. Yes, please grant us faith in You. Please grant us hope in You. But primarily, please grant each of us the depths of Your love in ever increasing manner until we see You face to face. In Jesus’ Name, we pray. Amen.”
[1] 1 Corinthians 13:10
[2] 1 Corinthians 13:12
[3] Ephesians 3:17-19
[4] 1 Corinthians 13:13
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