Tuesday, February 26, 2019
1 Corinthians 13:6 . . . Love . . . does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth . . .
DIVINE LOVE REJOICES IN THE TRUTH
In the unbelieving world true joy and happiness is often linked to material things. In an article titled "The Cult of the Next Thing" a Christian author writes that many people are searching for peace, contentment, joy, and happiness in stuff and things. When that "thing" grows old you need to acquire the next thing to remain satisfied or content.
Jesus once said: " . . . one's life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses" (Luke 12:15). The apostle John teaches: "Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him . . ." (1 John 2:15f). What a shallow foundation to build one's life on: the passing things of this world. Rather, true joy comes with the intangible spiritual treasures which are ours through faith in Christ -- beginning with forgiveness of sins and eternal life through His saving merits.
So it is that we rejoice "in the truth." The word "truth" is not a popular word today. Our "advanced" 21st century postmodern world suggests everything is relative and no absolute truth exists. By stark contrast Paul agrees with Jesus, who said: "If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" (John 8:31f). Divine love rejoices in the truth(s) found on the pages of Holy Scripture.
Fellow Christian, take heed. According to many, even in liberal churches, we are to rejoice NOT in the truth, but in doctrinal compromise and religious pluralism. About that Martin Luther once said: "Love with all its works and fruits has no place in the matter of unsound doctrine. I must love my neighbor and show him kindness whatever the imperfections of his life. But if he refuses to believe or to teach sound doctrine, I cannot, I dare not, love him or show him kindness . . ."
Luther is paraphrasing what Paul writes. Divine love rejoices in -- and stands up for -- the truth of God and His Word.
How precious is the Book Divine By inspiration giv'n!
Bright as a lamp its doctrines shine To guide our souls to heav'n.
Its light, descending from above Our gloomy world to cheer,
Displays a Savior's boundless love And brings His glories near.
(The Lutheran Hymnal, 285:1-2)
