"But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away." (1 Corinthians 13:10)

The thirteenth chapter of First Corinthians is God's response, among other things, to institutionalized and spiritually lifeless religion. With clarity and firmness, it announces the futility of any and all religion that is not characterized by the Divine nature. All such religion is impotent to affect the purpose of the Almighty.

The Corinthian assembly would rank high in the Western religious world. Prominent people attended their gatherings, and many "faired sumptuously every day."  They had an array of "spiritual gifts" that was unparalleled, including persuasive speakers, prophets, and those that could speak in divers languages. But they were not a notable assembly before God, They were marked more by the flesh than the Spirit, being "still fleshly . . . walking like mere men" (1 Cor 3:3, NASB). They had come out of Egypt, so to speak, but had not made much progress toward Canaan--they were "still fleshly," very much ensconced in "this present evil world."

The missing element among them was something that cannot be absent, if God's approval is sought. The quality so sorely needed by the Corinthians was "love." This is a Divine attribute possessed by men, not a manly characteristic imposed upon God. After all, "God is love"-- a most remarkable affirmation (1 John 4:8,16). That love manifests itself in both manner and conduct, words and deeds, attitudes and feelings. There is no situation too challenging for love. It "never fails." It never causes moral or spiritual deterioration, but always "edifies," building up and strengthening (1 Cor 8:1). It is the stimulus for maturity, and the catalyst for spiritual growth. Without it, Satan is loosed and the Spirit is handicapped. No person can please God or make progress to heaven without it!

This has a great deal to do with our subject, "When The Perfect Comes." In the midst of his dissertation on love, Paul refers to a time when the "perfect" will come and the "partial" will be done away. Love is clearly set forth as the means for preparing for the perfect, and profiting by its appearance. It will also survive the removal of the "partial."

Our churches need to hear about this! The "successful," or seemingly successful, congregations are known for their concerts, events, entertainment, praise bands, elaborate facilities, extensive church staffs, youtha groups, singles groups, married groups, divorce recovery, and even weight loss clubs. Institutionalized religion has entered the professional arena, offering musicians, writers, entertainers, athletes, etc., as proof of her influence. But she is not noted for her love or her spiritual maturity. For the most part, she is not ready for Jesus to come, or prepared to meet her God.

This series will be an effort to assist believers in their preparation for a time referred to as "when that which is perfect is come."