-There is massive difference between learning about love and being loving.
-Pray for grace to love this way, repent of our failures to love, pour over Scripture learning what love is and is not—learn from the life and death of Jesus.

I. The Corinthians Self Interest — In what ways were many in the Corinthian church seeking their own interest?

Consider Paul’s concluding comments in regards to the conflict of some in the Corinthians church eating meat that had been offered to idols—1 Corinthians 10:23-33

II. What about us? Selfish pursuit of our own interest is at the core of every sin—Adam and Eve, Israel, Samson, David, Jonah, Judas Iscariot. And Selfishness will destroy us

-In your marriage how are you insisting on your own way? How are you failing to love your spouse?

-How might we fail to love by insisting on our own way within the church?

“Love is the dynamic, creative endeavor of finding ways to pursue the welfare of others rather than one’s own interest.” (Roy Ciampa)

Conclusion—Philippians 2:1-11 reminds us that there is no greater example of this kind of love than Jesus Christ (also see Isaiah 53, Mark 10:45, Matthew 20:28, Galatians 1:4; 2:20, Ephesians 5:2, 25, 1 Timothy 2:6, Titus 2:14 ). This same Jesus longs to grow this love in our lives according to Philippians 2:12-13.

Love is you before me (die to self) Love is listens and learns about others

Personal Projects—Memorize 1 Corinthians 13; Sit down with friends and family and discuss the questions posed in the above outline. Discuss and elaborate on the definitions of love provided.