The answer is: Love

1 Cor 13:13

Paul's letter to the Corinthians really shines a spotlight on love, and it's fascinating how he elevates it above everything else! In Chapter 13, often referred to as the "Love Chapter,” he illustrates not only the importance of love but also how it transcends other virtues like faith and hope. Picture this: without love, knowledge can be just noise, while generosity comes off as empty if it’s not from a loving heart.

To connect with the cultural backdrop of ancient Rome, we see marriages and societies often entangled in politics, power, and possessions. But Paul challenges us to rethink those priorities. This wasn’t just a throwaway line; love was countercultural to the competition-heavy relationships of his time. His nuanced view promotes qualities like patience, kindness, and humility—values that create genuine, thriving communities whether in marriage or friendships.

Interesting trivia: Did you know this chapter contains the phrase “love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things”? This paints an image of love as a supportive and steadfast foundation—almost like a rock during a storm! There’s also an echo of love throughout the entire Bible; for instance, in 1 John 4:16, we see that "God is love." It shows that, beyond a mere command, love is intrinsic to spiritual life. When love drives our actions, they morph into something profound and everlasting—a true testament that relevance today transcends time.