Charity

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Preview: If it were not for the description of charity recorded in I Corinthians 13 there is little doubt that with the present-day usage of the word, it would not be understood. The qualities and characteristics are so outstanding that it is difficult to grasp the full significance. Our eyes are opened to the fact that the use of great talents may not be motivated by love. Gifts of benevolence and self-sacrifice may be made for selfish reasons. Therefore, our love for Christ must be directed in every way to His glory and for the benefit of our fellow man. 


Scripture Reading: II Peter 1:1-7. 

Memory Verse: Colossians 3:14. 

1. What will knowledge do that charity modifies? I Corinthians 8:1. 
Note: Webster defines charity as: Christian love, the virtue or act of loving God with a love which transcends that of creatures, and of loving others for the sake of God. 
2. What did Jesus say was the first and greatest Commandment? Matthew 22:37-38 & Deuteronomy 6:5. 
3. What is the next greatest Commandment? Matthew 22:39 & Leviticus 19:18. 
Note: Many people think Jesus was giving a new command, but He was quoting from the Old Testament Scriptures. The plan of salvation for man, and man’s best relation to man has always been based on love. 
4. In what other way did Jesus express the fact that God must be first in our lives? Matthew 10:37-39. 
5. Is it possible to be highly gifted and not have charity? Why or why not? I Corinthians 13:1-2. 
6. Is benevolence and self-sacrifice sufficient? Discuss. I Corinthians 13:3. 
7. What are the characteristics of charity? I Corinthians 13:4-7. 
8. How long will charity exist? I Corinthians 13:8. 
9. Of the three eternal things, which is the greatest? I Corinthians 13:13. 
10. What are we commanded to have among us? Why? I Peter 4:8. 
Note: Charity is the highest degree of love for God and man, and we are commanded to love God and man. There is not an action, motive, attitude, or thought that is not included in God’s command of love. 
11. How may we know whether we love God and His children? I John 5:2-3.