1 Corinthians 13:1: Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal.
Eloquence was greatly admired in the first century and the Corinthians were no exception, though they found little of it in Paul. This may explain in part their fascination with tongues. Paul’s application of this and the following conditional clauses (1 Cor. 13:2–3) to himself was forceful since he could claim exceptional experiences, particularly in regard to the languages of men (14:18) and of angels (cf. 2 Cor. 12:4). But the statement was probably meant to include every imaginable mode of speech. It was a statement of hyperbole concerning exalted eloquence, which if void of love might be momentarily electrifying like a clash of gong or cymbal but then vanished just as quickly. Love on the other hand produces eternal effects (cf. v. 13). 1
Application
- Read James 3:1-5. How can such a small instrument, be so powerful?
- Are you known more for your tenderness or for your temper?
Thought to Share
Your tongue has the potential for great blessing, if your heart is bathed in grace. – TWEET IT
Prayer
Lord, help me to be quick to hear and slow to speak, everyday.
1. Walvoord, John F., & Zuck, R. B., Dallas Theological Seminary. (1985). The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
