1 Corinthians 13:2 English Standard Version (ESV) And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.
Let us explore the issue of knowledge here and how it relates to love.
There was a man who bragged of all his exploits. There was no humility to be found. His theology was somewhat off target. At times it appeared that his words were leading some into danger. I stood against him and announced “No, that is not true.” Then I spoke truth into the situation. From that moment on he was careful not to speak up around me.
Sometime later he announced that he was leaving our church because there was no room for his ministry here. He took a dear widow woman with him whom he convinced that he was wise and learned in God’s word. I felt a responsibility for losing her from people that loved her.
Here is where I went wrong. I didn’t love that man. I failed to love him and my approach to his weaknesses prevented him from receiving any correction. Wisdom should have seen that correction can only be given to those who humble themselves and submit themselves to the authority of leadership.
It would have been better to reason with this man by at least asking him to consider relevant passages and include him in the discussion. My blunt approach shut the door to reason, stiffened his resolve, and perhaps even hardened his heart.
Proverbs 15:1-4 English Standard Version (ESV)
1 A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
2 The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouths of fools pour out folly.
3 The eyes of the Lord are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good.
4 A gentle tongue is a tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit.