1 Corinthians 13:3 Commentary and Bible Study

The apostle switches now to personal sacrifice. He has moved in these verses from personal giftedness, accomplishments, to sacrifices. This is all about generosity and self-denial and sacrifice. But what is the motive? What is the motive for self-denial? What is the motive for sacrifice in Christian service? Is it my reputation? Perish the thought. Is it just inborn stubbornness? Some people would go to flames of a martyr because they are too stubborn to relent or recant. That is not a worthy motive for suffering: personal stubbornness. Love for the message, love for Christ: these are the only acceptable motives. Love for sinners who ought to hear the true gospel. There is no profit, no gain, no compensation from God, no advance in spiritual things, unless there's love. ‘And though I give my body to be burned.’ I am not sure what the apostle means by that. They did not burn martyrs in those days; there were no burnings of that kind. But it seems to mean something perhaps like this – and it is only speculation – ‘And though I could give my body up for sacrifice, and have not love, it profiteth me nothing.’