Biblical vs. Western Views of Love
This information is referenced in the sermon above. Feel free to take screenshots, or copy and use this information if it is helpful to you.
Biblical Love (1 Corinthians 13)
Western Cultural Love
Love is patient
Love is urgent, demanding, and often expects instant gratification.
Love is kind
Love is often nice when convenient, but can turn harsh when feelings fade.
It does not envy
Often tangled with jealousy and comparison.
It does not boast
Love is used as a status symbol (“#couplegoals,” romantic achievements).
It is not proud
Love often feeds ego and identity (my partner reflects my worth).
It does not dishonor others
Relationships sometimes normalize shaming, sarcasm, or betrayal.
It is not self-seeking
Often asks, “What am I getting?” instead of “What can I give?”
It is not easily angered
Love is often volatile, reactive, and quick-tempered.
It keeps no record of wrongs
Love often holds grudges and brings up past mistakes.
Does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth
Sometimes permits or celebrates harmful behavior “in the name of love.”
It always protects
Often prioritizes self-protection, even at the cost of abandoning others.
Always trusts
Skeptical and guarded; assumes betrayal is inevitable.
Always hopes
Love is fragile and conditional; hope ends when things get hard.
Always perseveres
Love is disposable; when difficulties come, many move on.
