True Love
About This Series:
We live in a world confused about love. Is it a feeling? An attraction? A reward for those who earn it? In this eight-part series, Stephen Davey walks through the words of 1 Corinthians 13; one phrase at a time; to help us recognize what true, Christlike love really looks like. Not “storge” (family loyalty), not “philia” (affectionate friendship), not even “eros” (romantic desire), but “agape” - the selfless, committed, Spirit-enabled love that transforms people, churches, and relationships. This is love in action, and without it, Paul says, nothing else we do matters. But when agape takes root, it changes everything.
sermons in this series
Will True Love Please Stand Up?
(1 Corinthians 13:1) Corinth was a city known for its vices; and the believers there carried some of that baggage into the church. In this opening message, Stephen introduces the revolutionary concept of “agape” love: not sentimental, not superficial, but self-sacrificing, others-focused love that flows from the heart of God. We’ll explore the different kinds of love the Greek language offers and see why “agape” is in a class all its own.
Seven Minus One Equals Zero
(1 Corinthians 13:1–3) Paul uses a bit of divine math to get our attention: even the most impressive spiritual gifts and sacrifices mean absolutely nothing without love. In this convicting message, Stephen explains why eloquence, knowledge, generosity, and even martyrdom amount to zero if they aren’t motivated by “agape.” True love is the foundation for everything that counts in God’s eyes.
Surprised by the Appearances of Love
(1 Corinthians 3:4) Love begins with two surprising qualities: patience and kindness. It’s not flashy or loud—it’s long-suffering with difficult people, and it responds to hurt with compassion. In this message, Stephen shows how agape love isn’t proven in easy moments but in the hard ones. These aren’t natural responses—they’re supernatural, and they begin when we surrender to God’s Spirit.
Refusing to be Pig-Headed People
(1 Corinthians 13:4) Love is not jealous. It doesn’t brag. It isn’t arrogant. In this message, Stephen addresses the prideful, self-centered attitudes that love refuses to entertain. If agape love lives in us, we’ll stop comparing, stop boasting, and start walking in humility. It’s a message that challenges our ego and invites us to grow in Christlike character.
Uncommonly Rare, Undeniably Real
(1 Corinthians 13:5) Stephen explores three rare marks of genuine love: it isn’t rude, it isn’t selfish, and it isn’t easily irritated. In other words, true love shows uncommon courtesy, uncommon concern, and uncommon control. These traits don’t come naturally, but when they show up, they’re unmistakable evidence of Christ at work in our lives.
Keeping Erasers Handy
(1 Corinthians 13:5) Love doesn’t keep score. In this powerful message, Stephen explains what it means to stop rehearsing past hurts and to live with an “eraser handy.” God doesn’t keep a record of your sins. Are you willing to let go of others’? Forgiveness isn’t easy, but it’s freeing. If you’re tired of carrying bitterness, this message is for you.
Capturing Love's Attention
(1 Corinthians 13:6) True love doesn’t cheer for sin. It grieves over it. It doesn’t spread gossip—it rejoices in truth. In this message, Stephen challenges us to consider what we celebrate, what we share, and what we give our attention to. Agape love aligns itself with righteousness and rejoices when God’s truth prevails.
Beyond Puppy Love
(1 Corinthians 13:7–8) The series closes with five enduring traits of agape love: it bears, believes, hopes, endures, and never fails. This is more than emotional affection—it’s fierce loyalty, quiet strength, and unshakable commitment. When everything else fades, love remains. This final message reminds us that agape love isn’t just for now. It’s for eternity.