Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that ‘We all possess knowledge.’ But knowledge puffs up while love builds up. Those who think they know something do not yet know as they ought to know. But whoever loves God is known by God.
Paul warns the Corinthians that knowledge, when detached from love, becomes dangerous. Knowledge by itself leads to pride, it puffs us up. Love, however, builds up others. True knowledge must be shaped by love.
This is a vital word for our time. We are generating more data than ever before. AI systems promise to process and apply this knowledge in ways unimaginable even a decade ago. But knowledge without love is empty. Worse, it can be destructive. God’s way is different. Wisdom is not measured by how much we know, but by how we use what we know to love God and others.
The greatest intelligence in the world cannot compare to the simple, Spirit-filled act of loving God and neighbour. In God’s economy, to love is to know truly.
Where might your pursuit of knowledge need to be reshaped by love?
Lord, guard me from pride that comes from knowledge alone. Teach me that true wisdom is found in love—love for you and love for others.
