Matthew Henry Commentary 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

"Love suffereth long, [and] is kind; love envieth not; love vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not its own, is not provoked, taketh not account of evil; rejoiceth not in unrighteousness, but rejoiceth with the truth; beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things." — 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (ASV)

Some of the effects of charity are stated, so that we may know whether we have this grace; and if we do not, that we may not rest until we have it. This love is a clear proof of regeneration and a touchstone of our professed faith in Christ. In this beautiful description of the nature and effects of love, it is meant to show the Corinthians that their conduct had, in many respects, been a contrast to it. Charity is an utter enemy to selfishness; it does not desire or seek its own praise, or honour, or profit, or pleasure.

Not that charity destroys all regard for ourselves, or that the charitable person should neglect himself and all his interests. But charity never seeks its own to the harm of others or to the neglect of others. It always prefers the welfare of others to its private advantage. How good-natured and amiable is Christian charity!

How excellent Christianity would appear to the world, if those who profess it were more under this Divine principle and paid due regard to the command on which its blessed Author laid the chief stress! Let us ask whether this Divine love dwells in our hearts. Has this principle guided us into proper conduct toward all people?

Are we willing to lay aside selfish goals and aims? Here is a call to watchfulness, diligence, and prayer.