CHARITY AS A VERITABLE QUALITY FOR BELIEVERS I
OCTOBER 21, 2024
TEXT: 1 Corinthians 13:1-5
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. 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. 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.Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil.
Charity is one of the spiritual gifts listed in Galatians 5:22 and is alternatively known as Love. It encompasses the ability to demonstrate care and compassion to those around us. Apostle Paul emphasized the need and importance of charity, highlighting that it cannot be replaced by any spiritual gift.
Charity goes beyond verbal expressions of love; it involves being genuinely intentional about showing care. It’s more than providing material goods or financial support; it’s about being sacrificially attentive to others’ needs (Philippians 2:3-4). Apostle Paul stressed that regardless of one’s spiritual gifts or power, love remains supreme.A remarkable example of charity is Dorcas, a disciple who lived in Joppa (Acts 9:36-43). She was known for her acts of charity and kindness, especially to widows, providing them with clothing and other necessities. When Dorcas died, the widows she had helped testified to her selfless love and generosity.
WHAT ARE THE ESSENTIAL ATTRIBUTES OF CHARITY (1 Corinthians 13:1-7)
1. Charity is patient, enduring and tolerating.
2. It is kind and compassionate.
3. It does not envy nor boast.
4. It is humble, not proud or insolent.
5. It is selfless, seeking others’ well-being.
6. It celebrates and upholds the truth.
WE SHALL CONTINUE WITH THIS DISCOURSE TOMORROW
SEARCHLIGHT:
Charity transcends mere publicity gestures. Genuine charity reflects a deep concern for others’ well-being.
PRAYER:
O LORD, Help me to be intentional about showing charity to those around me, in Jesus’ Mighty name.
BIBLE READING: Ezekiel 16-18, Matthew 20
PST. MICHAEL OMOLE
