In the letter to the Corinthians, Paul is addressing various problems that exist in the church in Corinth. The problems that they faced are ones that are common for us today - uncorrected sin, divisions, fightings, selfishness. Paul brings the discussion to a high point where he discusses the solution to the problems: Love.
He had been spending time on each topic saying to stop wrong behaviour and give instructions on proper behaviour. In this chapter Paul lays out the overarching theme, solution and proper behaviour guidelines - God's love working in and through us.
He begins by talking about how all the gifts, services and even martyrdom are nothing without love. It is going to the motive of why we are doing what we do. If we are driven by selfish desires or wrong motives, the things that we do are worthless in God's kingdom (I gain nothing v 3).
Paul's discussion of Love defines Love both by what it is (patient, kind) and what it isn't (proud, rude, self-seeking, easily angered), how it behaves (rejoices with the truth, protects, trusts, hopes, perseveres) and how it doesn't behave (envy, boast, keeps no record of wrong, does not delight in evil).
Let us seek to live in God's love, motivated by his kindness and love that he has shown us, and showing that love back to others.
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