Seven Minus One Equals Zero
Why everything we do amounts to nothing without love.
What makes life truly valuable? In 1 Corinthians 13, the apostle Paul delivers a sobering truth: even the most impressive spiritual gifts, knowledge, or acts of sacrifice amount to nothing if they are not motivated by love. In this episode of Wisdom for the Heart, Stephen Davey explores verses 1–3, where Paul uses himself as an example of “divine mathematics”—seven remarkable qualities of life and ministry, minus love, equal zero.
Paul reminds us that eloquence without love is just noise. Knowledge without love puffs up but does not build up. Even giving away possessions or sacrificing one’s life, if done without genuine love, profits nothing. True Christian love—agape love—is selfless, servant-like, people-first, and God-glorifying.
This message challenges us to examine our motives. Are our words spoken in love? Are our acts of service driven by care for others? Do we give with compassion or simply obligation? Paul’s radical conclusion is clear: without love, everything adds up to nothing.
Listen today and discover how love is the indispensable ingredient that gives meaning to your actions and eternal value to your service.