Characteristics of Love, part 2

The characterics of love identified by Paul in this section of his letter to the Corinthians are verbs - actions that love is to do. This agape love is not dependent upon feelings and emotions but it is an act of the will which is why it can be commanded.

This love puts up with a lot, is centered on others, it delights in the good and honor of others and it is about a humble view of self and a high regard for others.

In this study we learn that this biblical love was demonstrated to us by Christ and produced in us by the Holy Spirit. It results in a mannerly and appropriate conduct towards others, it makes one 'hard to offend' and it doesn' keep a record of wrongs suffered. In the good sense, this biblical love is forgetful as well as forgiving.