1 Corinthians 13 and Politicians

1 Corinthians 13:1-7  
Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.  2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.  3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.  4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,  5 Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;  6 Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;  7 Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. 

1. Most politicians have silver tongues; they're good public speakers, and have charisma, but what good is fine or rousing speech without the love of God?  Such men are noisy clanging metal, accompanied by the cheers and applause of the deceived.

2. Politicians presume to understand many things and know how to improve the world. They believe they can "make a difference."  But as verse 2 points out, operating outside the love of God, they are nothing.

3. Politicians propose social programs to improve life for the poor, provide better medical care, more jobs, better salaries, better schools, stronger defense, etc. But does no lasting good, since they operate without the love of God. It all comes to nothing. What good is a better economy when at death people go to eternal perdition?

4-7. Certainly many politicians profess some kind of love. But how do we know that they lack the love that is the fruit of the Holy Spirit? Simply reading verses 4-7, we can see that they do not describe politicians.

God's love, sacrificial divine love, seeks the salvation and eternal well being of all people. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life" (John 3:16). God pardons completely, saves forever, transforms, guides, guards and blesses with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places every believer  in the Lord Jesus Christ.  It's not a political gimmick or program.

Therefore, what should be our occupation and message as believers? "Go and reform governments or countries?" No! "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature" (Mr. 16:15). Until the Lord comes for us, these are our orders!

"For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord..."  
2 Cor. 4:5



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