Love That Rejoices in Truth

“Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.” —1 Corinthians 13:6 (NIV)

We often speak of love as kindness, patience, or emotional warmth. But Paul’s vision in 1 Corinthians 13 is deeper: love is not merely gentle—it is morally discerning. In verse 6, Paul reveals that true love does not celebrate wrongdoing but rejoices in truth. This is not merely a call to moral and ethical behavior; it is a glimpse into the heart of God, from which all true behavior flows.

The word Paul uses for love is agape—the self-giving, holy love that originates in God and is poured into us by the Spirit. As the 18th-century pastor and commentator Matthew Henry writes, “It does not rejoice in the faults and failings of others, nor in the success of wicked schemes, but rejoices when truth and righteousness prevail.” Love does not gloat over sin, even when justice is served. It longs for restoration and righteousness.

John Wesley adds, “Rejoiceth not in iniquity—Yea, weeps at either the sin or folly of even an enemy… But rejoiceth in the truth—Bringing forth its proper fruit, holiness of heart and life.” Wesley’s emphasis on holiness echoes Paul’s intent: love rejoices not in exposure or condemnation, but in the redemptive work of truth.

Here, “truth” is not mere factual accuracy. It is the reality of God’s holiness, mercy, and justice. Psalm 85:10 says, “Love and faithfulness meet together; righteousness and peace kiss each other.” This is the truth love rejoices in—not cold correctness, but the living truth of God’s redemptive purposes.

Paul is not describing human love at its best; he is describing divine love as our model. God’s agape love does not ignore sin, nor does it condemn without hope. It rejoices when truth—God’s truth—prevails in the heart, in the community, and in the world.

When we love as God loves, we do not excuse injustice or celebrate failure. We grieve over sin, even in those we oppose. We rejoice when truth is spoken, when repentance is embraced, when grace is received. In pastoral care, in preaching, in daily life, we are called to embody this discerning love—a love that is both tender and true.

This is the love we receive from God—and the love we are called to reflect. The kind of love shows up in everyday moments. Consider a workplace moment: a colleague makes a mistake that could easily be mocked or gossiped about. Love does not delight in the misstep, even if it makes us feel superior or entertained. Instead, love quietly protects their dignity, offers help, and rejoices when the truth is acknowledged and growth begins. It’s not about pretending the error didn’t happen—it’s about choosing restoration over ridicule, truth over triumphalism.

Or think of a family disagreement, a tense church meeting, or a social media post that invites mockery. Love doesn’t pile on. It listens, it prays, it seeks what is true and healing. These are the places where agape love can shine—not by avoiding truth, but by rejoicing in it.

God of love and truth, teach me to love as You love—not with sentiment alone, but with holy joy. Help me grieve what grieves You and rejoice in what reflects Your righteousness. May my heart be shaped by Your truth, and my love be a witness to Your grace. Amen.

Peace & Grace,

Pastor Tim