Definition: Charity never faileth: but whether [there be] prophecies, they shall fail; whether [there be] tongues, they shall cease; whether [there be] knowledge, it shall vanish away.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 1 Corinthians 13:8. It’s a really important and profound message about love! Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse essentially says that love (charity) never fails. It’s the most important thing in Christianity, and it's a constant reminder of what truly matters. Let's unpack each part: “Charity never faileth” : This means charity – kindness, generosity, compassion – is always reliable and effective. It doesn’t get old or lose its power. “but whether prophecies, they shall fail; whether tongues, they shall cease; whether knowledge, it shall vanish away.” This is where it gets a little more interesting. It's comparing different things to illustrate the strength of love. Prophecies: These are predictions or forecasts – like knowing what will happen in the future. This verse suggests that prophecies (predictions) can become outdated, incorrect, or even disappear over time. Tongues: This refers to speaking in a way that uses special words and sounds – like chanting or using elaborate language. This suggests that the power of speaking with eloquence or communication might fade as time goes on. Knowledge: This is about information, understanding, and facts. This suggests that knowledge can become less relevant or useful over time. What Does It All Mean? The verse is saying that love is a constant, unwavering force. When we love someone, when we act with kindness and generosity, and when we strive to understand others, these things always endure. They don’t depend on anything else – not on our memories, our skills, or even the world around us. In essence, it's a declaration that genuine love is a powerful and enduring thing. It highlights that true connection and relationships are built on something deeper than fleeting things. --- Think of it like this: A strong foundation (love) will always support a building (relationships or actions). It’s not dependent on the materials used, but on the very nature of the foundation itself. Do you want me to: Explain why this verse is important in more detail? Give some real-world examples of how love manifests itself?