The Greatest Of These: LOVE
Love Gives True Value to Ministry
Even the greatest spiritual gifts and acts of sacrifice are rendered meaningless without love. Speaking in tongues, prophetic insight, understanding mysteries, or having faith mighty enough to move mountains—all become “a noisy gong or clanging cymbal” if not motivated by love. Giving away possessions or laying down one’s life without love gains nothing in the eyes of God. This sobering truth reminds believers that love is the essential ingredient that gives ministry authentic power and lasting significance.
All My Full-Time Ministers
Ministry is not the exclusive responsibility of pastors or church staff—it belongs to every believer. The call to spread the gospel is not optional or reserved for the particularly gifted or available. As evangelist Bob Weiner once quipped at a conference with hundreds of ministers present, “Now all my full-time ministers, stand up!”—reminding everyone that all followers of Jesus are full-time ministers in God’s mission. Excuses about lacking ability, capacity, or time miss the point under the weight of the Great Commission, which calls every believer to be visible and vocal about their faith and fully engaged in advancing God’s kingdom.
Motivation Matters
God assesses the heart behind actions more than the actions themselves. It is not simply what we do but why we do it that determines the true value of our ministry. Genuine love, compassion, and humility must drive everything we do. Jesus consistently demonstrated compassion before performing miracles, showing that ministry rooted in love is what brings true transformation. Performances or good deeds done for recognition fall short and miss the sacredness God desires.
The Biblical Definition of Love
Love is clearly defined as patient and kind; it does not envy or boast, is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way, is not irritable or resentful, and does not rejoice at wrongdoing but rejoices in truth. Love bears, believes, hopes, and endures all things and never ends. This love—the very nature of God—is what believers are called to embody. Unlike spiritual gifts which will pass away, love endures eternally.
Love Makes Ministry Great
Just as a special marinade transforms a good steak into a memorable meal, love seasons ministry efforts, making them savory, sincere, and potent. Ministry without love may still appear good, but it lacks the fullness and power that love provides. This “secret sauce” of love brings richness that touches hearts deeply, making ministry more than just effective—it makes it great.
Reflecting God’s Scandalous Love
God’s love is scandalous in its reach—it meets people where they are, despite sin and imperfection. The church is called to reflect this same love through acts of kindness, patience, and compassion. For example, one pastor confessed to a brother in his church, “When I saw you coming, I wanted to send you away. But the Lord convicted me, and I’m sorry.” This honest, loving response transformed that man’s life. Such moments illustrate how love moves the kingdom forward and manifests Jesus’ presence to those in need.
A Heart Check for Every Believer
Believers must frequently examine their motives. Are my deeds fueled by sincere love, or are they performed for show, status, or approval? Jesus warned against practicing righteousness to be seen by others, promising no reward for such acts. True faithfulness involves humility, genuine care, and a heart fully devoted to God, ensuring that ministry is both effective and pleasing to Him.
The Greatest Example of Love
The supreme expression of love was Jesus’ sacrifice—His body broken and blood shed for humanity’s redemption. This ultimate act of love sets the standard for all ministry and service. Reflecting on Jesus’ love moves believers to serve with the same sacrificial heart, empowered to love others fully and serve God faithfully.
The Takeaway
Ask yourself this week: Am growing in love? Is what I’m doing motivated by love?
