1 Corinthians 13:4-5
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Here's a thought that might surprise you: The Bible doesn't just describe love; it defines it by contrasting what it is (patient, kind) with what it is not (envious, boastful, arrogant). This shows us that true love isn't just a feeling, but an active choice, consistently demonstrated through behavior, even when it’s hard.
Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful;
English Standard Version (ESV)
Paul is addressing the Corinthian church's obsession with spiritual gifts, which was causing division and pride. He's just explained how crucial love is, above all other gifts, and now he's defining what that looks like in practical, everyday terms, as opposed to the flashy displays they were valuing. This passage serves as a divine diagnostic, showing them the true measure of spiritual maturity isn't about being the most gifted, but about embodying genuine, Christ-like love in relationships.
We often think of love as a feeling, but Paul paints a picture of love as an action. What does it truly mean for love to be patient?
Paul kicks off his famous description of love with two powerful qualities: patience and kindness.
Patient Love
This isn't just waiting around. The original language points to a love that is slow to anger, able to endure hardship, and willing to overlook wrongs. It’s the kind of love that doesn’t give up when things get tough, but instead, perseveres.
Kind Love
Following closely is kindness. This isn't a passive wish for well-being, but an active, positive engagement. It’s about doing good, being helpful, and showing compassion to others, even when it's difficult.
Envy, boasting, and arrogance seem like the opposite of love. Why does Paul immediately contrast love with these destructive traits?
Paul continues his portrait of love by highlighting what it is not. These next characteristics reveal the self-emptying nature of genuine love.
No Envy
Love doesn't begrudge others their successes or blessings. Instead of feeling a pang of jealousy, it rejoices with those who rejoice.
No Boasting
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True love doesn't need to brag or draw attention to itself. It's not about seeking personal glory or highlighting one's own accomplishments.
Not Arrogant
This quality speaks against puffed-up pride and haughtiness. Love is humble; it doesn't think more highly of itself than it ought to, nor does it look down on others.
Understand the original words
makrothymeō · Greek Verb
The quality of long-suffering or enduring steadfastness in the face of provocation or difficulty, refusing to retaliate.
chrēsteuomai · Greek Verb
An active commitment to do good and show benevolence to others, reflecting the gracious character of God.
zēloō · Greek Verb
A sinful disposition of covetousness or jealousy over the success, possessions, or gifts of another, contrary to brotherly affection.
perpereuomai · Greek Verb
An attitude of self-importance or prideful display, often characterized by talking excessively about one's own achievements or status.
physioō · Greek Verb
A sense of inflated self-importance or pride, often manifested as "puffed up" attitudes that look down on others.
aschēmoneō · Greek Verb
Behavior that violates social norms or Christian decorum, characterized by a lack of graciousness or consideration for others.
paroxynō · Greek Verb
A lack of quick temper or sensitivity; the ability to remain calm and composed rather than becoming provoked by external stimuli.
logizomai kakon · Greek Verb phrase
The state of holding onto past wrongs or injuries, characterized by an unwillingness to forgive or let go of grievances.
This passage echoes 1 Corinthians 13 by calling believers to 'clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience,' directly reflecting the characteristics of love described here and adding the vital element of forgiveness.
1 Peter 4:8Peter emphasizes that 'above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins,' highlighting love's patient and forgiving nature as a protective barrier in relationships.
Proverbs 14:30This proverb states that 'a heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy breeds decay,' directly contrasting the destructive nature of envy with the life-giving quality of a peaceful, loving heart.
Galatians 5:22-23Here, love is listed as the first fruit of the Spirit, followed by 'joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control,' showing that these qualities are divine attributes empowered by God's Spirit.
Here's a thought that might surprise you: The Bible doesn't just describe love; it defines it by contrasting what it is (patient, kind) with what it is not (envious, boastful, arrogant). This shows us that true love isn't just a feeling, but an active choice, consistently demonstrated through behavior, even when it’s hard.
Paul is addressing the Corinthian church's obsession with spiritual gifts, which was causing division and pride. He's just explained how crucial love is, above all other gifts, and now he's defining what that looks like in practical, everyday terms, as opposed to the flashy displays they were valuing. This passage serves as a divine diagnostic, showing them the true measure of spiritual maturity isn't about being the most gifted, but about embodying genuine, Christ-like love in relationships.
Paul is addressing the Corinthian church's obsession with spiritual gifts, which was causing division and pride. He's just explained how crucial love is, above all other gifts, and now he's defining what that looks like in practical, everyday terms, as opposed to the flashy displays they were valuing. This passage serves as a divine diagnostic, showing them the true measure of spiritual maturity isn't about being the most gifted, but about embodying genuine, Christ-like love in relationships.
"Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful;" — Here's a thought that might surprise you: The Bible doesn't just describe love; it defines it by contrasting what it is (patient, kind) with what it is not (envious, boastful, arrogant). This s…
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Last reviewed October 2026
