Few verses in the Bible capture the heart of Christian living as profoundly or are cited as frequently as the faith, hope, and love passage from Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians. 1 Corinthians 13:13 presents a concise yet powerful declaration, summarizing the core of the Christian life into three lasting, God-infused virtues. Beyond its poetic beauty, this verse serves as a guiding principle, offering a roadmap for living with intention, strength, and grace.
In this exploration, we’ll unpack the meaning of these theological virtues, examine why love is proclaimed the greatest, and discover how faith, hope, and love remain vitally important for our lives today. Whether you’re seeking deeper understanding, scriptural encouragement, or clarity on this famous verse, let’s delve into the rich truth of God’s Word.
The Core Bible Verse: Faith, Hope, and Love (1 Corinthians 13:13)
At the climax of a profound chapter on the nature of true love (agape), the Apostle Paul delivers this concluding gem. It serves as the anchor for everything he has just explained about selfless, sacrificial love.
1 Corinthians 13:13 (KJV, ESV, Catholic Versions)
To appreciate the nuance, it helps to see the verse across trusted translations:
- KJV: “And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.”
- ESV: “Faith, hope, and love endure forever—these three stand firm, and the highest of them all is love.”
- Catholic Bible (NAB): “Faith, hope, and love remain steadfast; these three last eternally, yet love surpasses them all.”
The words “abide,” “remain,” and “abideth” are key. They tell us these are not fleeting feelings but permanent, enduring qualities that originate from God and last into eternity. Notice the synonym “charity” in the KJV—a direct translation of the Greek agape, which signifies a self-giving, divine love, not mere emotion.
“But the Greatest of These Is Love” Explained
Why does Apostle Paul emphasize love’s supremacy? The context of the entire chapter provides the answer. In 1 Corinthians 13, Paul describes love as the indispensable motive and action behind all spiritual gifts and good works. One can have mountain-moving faith or offer extravagant sacrifice, but without love, it gains nothing.
Love is the greatest because it most perfectly reflects the eternal, unchanging character of God Himself (1 John 4:8). While faith and hope are essential for our journey, they will ultimately be fulfilled and become sight in God’s presence. Love, however, is the very atmosphere of heaven and will continue forever.
Why This Verse Is Central to Christian Doctrine
This passage is much more than a simple inspirational saying; it stands as a foundational pillar of Christian teaching and practice. Here’s the reason why:
- Theology of Virtues: It establishes faith, hope, and love as the supreme, God-infused virtues that shape a believer’s character, distinct from human moral effort.
- Framework for Salvation: Our salvation is received through faith (Ephesians 2:8), sustained by the hope of eternal life (Titus 1:2), and is the ultimate expression of God’s love (John 3:16).
- Blueprint for Christian Life: It provides a balanced template for spiritual growth, guiding how we relate to God (in faith), face the future (in hope), and relate to others (in love).
What Are Faith, Hope, and Love Called in Christianity?
In Christian theology, faith, hope, and love are formally known as the Three Theological Virtues. This title distinguishes them from other virtues.
The Three Theological Virtues
The term “theological” points to their origin and object. These virtues are:
- Faith: The virtue by which we believe in God and all He has revealed. It is trust in God and a firm assurance of His promises.
- Hope: The virtue by which we desire and confidently expect God’s kingdom, eternal life, and the grace to attain it, relying not on our strength but on the help of the Holy Spirit.
- Love (Charity): The virtue by which we love God above all things for His own sake, and our neighbor as ourselves out of love for God. This agape love is self-giving and unconditional.
Origin of the Theological Virtues in Scripture
While 1 Corinthians 13:13 is their most famous grouping, these virtues are woven throughout the New Testament:
- Faith: “Through God’s gracious gift, we are saved, and this comes by placing our trust in Him.” (Ephesians 2:8)
- Hope: “We hold onto this as a sure and steadfast anchor for our soul—our unwavering hope in God.” (Hebrews 6:19)
- Love: “Most of all, continue to love one another wholeheartedly, for true love has the power to cover many faults.” (1 Peter 4:8)
Difference Between Moral and Theological Virtues
Understanding the distinction clarifies why these three are so special:
- Theological Virtues (Faith, Hope, Love): Infused directly by God. Their object is God Himself. They are gifts of grace that unite us to God and guide us toward Him.
- Moral Virtues (Prudence, Justice, Fortitude, Temperance): Acquired through human effort and practice. They govern our actions, regulate our passions, and guide our conduct in relation to others and ourselves.
Faith in the Bible: Meaning, Assurance, and Trust in God
To grasp the full picture of the faith hope and love bible verse, we must understand each pillar. Biblical faith is the bedrock.
Biblical Definition of Faith (Hebrews 11:1)
The Bible provides a clear definition: “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1, ESV). This means:
- Assurance: A firm, settled confidence in God and His promises.
- Conviction: A certainty about spiritual realities, like God’s existence and His goodness, even when we can’t see them physically.
Living by Faith According to Scripture
Living by faith is an active, daily reliance. It involves:
- Obedience: True faith always moves us to obey God’s Word, just as Abraham obeyed when called.
- Trust in Trials: It is reliance on God when circumstances are difficult, believing He is working for our good (Romans 8:28).
- Perseverance: It is the spiritual confidence to keep going, knowing God is faithful to His promises.
Examples of Faith from Biblical Figures
Scripture is filled with models of living by faith:
- Abraham: Called the father of faith, he believed God’s promise of a son and descendants as numerous as the stars, despite his old age (Hebrews 11:8-12).
- The Apostle Paul: He demonstrated faith through unwavering perseverance in ministry despite persecution, shipwrecks, and imprisonment (2 Timothy 1:12).
- The Bereans: Commended for their diligent faith, they eagerly accepted the message and carefully studied the Scriptures each day to verify its truth (Acts 17:11).
Hope in the Bible: Confident Expectation of Salvation
Biblical hope is the confident, joyful expectation of what God has promised. It is the second pillar in the triad of faith, hope, and love.
What Is Biblical Hope? (Not Wishful Thinking)
Worldly hope is often a fragile wish—“I hope it doesn’t rain tomorrow.” Biblical hope is a solid assurance based on God’s character and covenant promises. It is a confident expectation of future good, grounded in the finished work of Jesus Christ.
Hope: The Steadfast Anchor of the Soul (Hebrews 6:19)
This metaphor from Hebrews 6:19 beautifully defines its function: “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.” An anchor stabilizes a ship in a storm. Similarly, the hope we have in God’s promises keeps us steady, secure, and prevents us from drifting during life’s trials and sufferings.
Eternal Hope and the Promise of Salvation
The ultimate object of Christian hope is eternal life and the fullness of God’s kingdom. This living hope (1 Peter 1:3) includes:
- The resurrection of the body.
- The final victory over sin and death.
- Dwelling in God’s presence forever.
This eternal hope fuels patient endurance and holy living as we await its fulfillment.
Love in the Bible: Agape, Charity, and God’s Nature
The pinnacle of the three is love. In the faith hope and love bible verse, the Greek word used is agape, defining its unique nature.
Agape Love: God’s Self-Giving Love
Agape is not a feeling but a choice—a deliberate, sacrificial, and unconditional commitment to seek the highest good of another. It is:
- God’s Love: The very nature of God (1 John 4:8). His love is demonstrated supremely in sending Jesus (John 3:16).
- Self-Giving Love: It gives without demanding anything in return. It is compassion and mercy in action.
- The Greatest Commandment: Jesus said all the Law and Prophets hang on loving God and loving neighbor (Matthew 22:37-40).
Why Love Fulfills the Law
The Apostle Paul explains in Romans 13:10, “Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.” Rules forbid harmful actions, but love proactively does good. When we act in genuine agape love, we naturally fulfill God’s moral requirements, moving beyond mere compliance to the heart of God’s intent.
Love One Another: Jesus’ Command
This is the practical outworking of agape. Jesus called it His “new command” (John 13:34). Loving one another with brotherly kindness and compassion is the primary mark of a true disciple and the most powerful witness to the world of God’s reality.
Why Love Is the Greatest Among Faith and Hope
This declaration in 1 Corinthians 13:13 invites a crucial question: Why is love greater than faith and hope?
Faith and Hope Reach Completion — Love Endures Forever
From an eternal perspective, faith and hope have a specific function for our earthly journey. One day, faith will become sight when we see God face to face. Hope will be realized when we receive the fullness of our salvation. Their purpose, in a sense, will be complete. But love is the very currency of eternity. It is the eternal nature of God and the permanent state of His kingdom. Love remains.
Love Reflects God’s Eternal Nature
The Bible plainly affirms, “God is love” (1 John 4:8). By practicing agape love, we mirror and participate in God’s eternal nature. While faith brings us closer to Him and hope keeps our eyes on His promises, it is love that truly reflects the very heart and character of God.
Apostle Paul’s Reasoning in Context
Paul was writing to the Corinthian church, which prized spectacular spiritual gifts but was riddled with division and selfishness. He elevated love to correct their imbalance. He showed that without love, even the most impressive faith (to “move mountains”) is empty noise. Love is the greatest because it is the essential motive and fruit that validates all other Christian virtues and actions.
The Relationship Between Faith, Hope, and Love
These three are not isolated virtues but are dynamically interconnected in the Christian life.
How Faith Produces Hope
Genuine faith—a deep trust in God and His promises—naturally gives birth to hope. When you are convinced (assurance) of God’s goodness and faithfulness (faith), you can face the future with confident expectation (hope). Your trust creates your expectation.
How Hope Strengthens Endurance
This confident hope is what fuels perseverance and patient endurance during trials. Knowing a glorious future is guaranteed (“an anchor for the soul”) provides the strength to endure present hardships with peace and joy. Hope empowers perseverance.
How Love Perfects Faith and Hope
Love is the action that validates and completes the others. Faith works through love (Galatians 5:6). Our hope of salvation purifies us to love others (1 John 3:3). Love puts faith into motion and gives hope a tangible expression. It is the perfecting agent.
Why Faith, Hope, and Love Are Important for Christians Today
These ancient virtues are not relics; they are desperately relevant for modern Christian living.
Faith for Daily Christian Living
In a world of uncertainty, faith provides a foundation. It guides our decision-making, infuses our prayer life with expectancy, and allows us to walk in obedience even when the path is unclear. It is our daily reliance on God.
Hope During Trials and Suffering
When faced with personal loss, illness, or global crises, biblical hope offers more than optimism. It provides an unshakeable comfort, strength, and peace that transcends circumstances, rooted in the character of a faithful God.
Love as Christian Witness to the World
In a culture often marked by division and self-interest, the Christian witness of self-giving love, compassion, and service stands out powerfully. Loving one another deeply and showing kindness to all is the most compelling evidence of a transformed life and draws people to Christ.
Faith, Hope, and Love Quotes from the Bible
Here is a collection of powerful, shareable scriptures that expand on each of these vital virtues.
Short Bible Quotes About Faith
- “For we walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7)
- “I can face and overcome every challenge because Christ empowers me with His strength.” (Philippians 4:13)
- “Your faith has made you well.” (Mark 5:34)
Encouraging Bible Quotes About Hope
- “May the God who gives hope fill you with complete joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that through the Holy Spirit your hope may overflow.” (Romans 15:13)
- “The LORD is my portion, my soul says, and so I will place my hope in Him.” (Lamentations 3:24)
- “Those who rely on the LORD will have their strength restored and will rise with renewed power.” (Isaiah 40:31)
Powerful Bible Quotes About Love
- “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God…” (1 John 4:7)
- “Most importantly, continue to love one another wholeheartedly, for genuine love can forgive and overlook many wrongs.” (1 Peter 4:8)
- “Our love for others is a response to His love for us first.” (1 John 4:19)
Faith, Hope, and Love Tattoos: Meaning & Scripture Inspiration
The faith hope and love bible verse is a popular choice for tattoos, serving as a permanent reminder of one’s beliefs.
Why Christians Choose This Verse for Tattoos
For many, it’s a personal testament of devotion, a daily visual reminder of the core values that guide their life. It symbolizes a commitment to living by these theological virtues and can be a source of personal encouragement and a conversation starter about one’s faith.
Popular Faith Hope Love Tattoo Designs Explained
Designs often incorporate symbols:
- Cross, Heart, Anchor: A classic representation where the cross symbolizes faith, the anchor represents hope (Hebrews 6:19), and the heart signifies love.
- Script Text: Often the words “Faith, Hope, Love” or the reference “1 Cor 13:13” are inked in elegant script.
- Symbolic Imagery: Birds (hope as a dove), intertwined elements, or minimalist designs that hold personal meaning.
Is It Biblical? A Faith-Based Perspective
Views on tattoos within Christianity vary. Some reference Leviticus 19:28, while others emphasize the New Covenant focus on the heart. A balanced, respectful explanation acknowledges this diversity. The key consideration is motive: does it honor God and serve as a reminder of His truth? For many, this tattoo is an outward expression of an inward conviction and a personal form of worship.
How to Live Out Faith, Hope, and Love Daily
Understanding these virtues is the first step; applying them is the goal. Here are actionable ways to walk in faith, rejoice in hope, and love deeply.
Walking in Faith Through Trust and Prayer
- Begin each day with a prayer of surrender, expressing your trust in God for what lies ahead.
- When anxious, practice believing God’s promises over your fears. Write out a verse like Proverbs 3:5-6 and meditate on it.
- Step out in obedience in a specific area where God has been prompting you, even if it feels uncertain.
Rejoicing in Hope Through God’s Promises
- Memorize scriptures about hope (like Romans 15:13) and declare them when you feel discouraged.
- Practice gratitude. List things you are hopeful for based on God’s character, fostering confident expectation.
- Share your hope with others. Offer encouragement rooted in God’s faithfulness.
Loving Deeply Through Service and Compassion
- Perform one intentional act of kindness or service each day without expecting anything in return.
- Choose patience and compassion in a difficult relationship this week, asking God to help you see them with His eyes.
- Forgive someone, reflecting the mercy and grace you have received from God. The Bible teaches that this is a powerful act of love.
Faith, Hope, and Love Explained — Summary Table
| Virtue | Biblical Meaning | Key Verse | Practical Application |
| Faith | Assurance and conviction in God and His promises; active trust. | Hebrews 11:1 | Praying with confidence; obeying God’s Word; trusting in trials. |
| Hope | Confident expectation of salvation and eternal life; the anchor of the soul. | Hebrews 6:19 | Facing the future with peace; enduring hardship; sharing encouragement. |
| Love (Agape) | God’s self-giving, sacrificial love; the greatest virtue reflecting His nature. | 1 Corinthians 13:13; 1 John 4:8 | Serving others; showing compassion; forgiving; building unity. |
Final Reflection: Abide in Faith, Hope, and Love
As we’ve explored, the faith, hope, and love bible verse is far more than a memorable phrase. It is a divine summary of the Christian life. These three theological virtues, gifted by God’s grace, are meant to abide—to remain, endure, and define our existence.
Why These Three Virtues Shape the Christian Life
Together, they create a balanced, resilient, and purposeful life. Faith roots us in God’s past and present faithfulness. Hope pulls us forward with joyful expectation of His future promises. Love governs our present interactions, making our journey impactful and Christ-reflecting. They are the evidence of spiritual growth and the pathway to a deeper walk with God.
Encouragement for Spiritual Growth
You might feel strong in one area and weak in another. That’s part of the journey. The beautiful truth is that God is the source of all three. Ask Him today to increase your faith, solidify your hope, and expand your capacity for His love. Dive into the Scriptures—the very Word that nourishes these virtues.
Call to Action: Live What You Believe
Let this understanding move from your mind to your daily life. Trust (faith) God with a specific worry. Anticipate (hope) His goodness in a difficult situation. Act in love (charity) toward someone who is hard to love. In doing so, you don’t just understand 1 Corinthians 13:13—you embody it.
Abide in faith, hope, and love, for these three remain, and the greatest of these is love.
FAQs
What Bible verse says faith, hope, and love?
The Bible verse that explicitly mentions faith, hope, and love together is 1 Corinthians 13:13. It states:
“Faith, hope, and love endure forever, yet above all, love stands supreme.”
What are the 3 P’s of God?
While not a direct biblical phrase, the “3 P’s of God” is a common Christian teaching summary referring to three key attributes of God’s nature:
God’s Presence – He is everywhere and always close to us, never leaving our side (Psalm 139:7-10).
God’s Provision – He supplies all our needs (Philippians 4:19).
God’s Protection – He is our refuge and shield (Psalm 91:1-2).
What three things will last forever?
According to the Bible, the three things that will last forever (abide/remain) are faith, hope, and love, as stated in 1 Corinthians 13:13. The verse emphasizes their eternal nature, with love being the greatest. Additionally, the Bible teaches that God (Psalm 90:2), His Word (Matthew 24:35), and the souls of people (Daniel 12:2-3) are eternal.
What does 1 Corinthians 13:13 mean?
1 Corinthians 13:13 means that faith (trust in God), hope (confident expectation of salvation), and love (self-sacrificing agape love) are the three supreme, enduring virtues of the Christian life, given by God. While all are essential, love is the greatest because it most directly reflects God’s eternal character (1 John 4:8) and will continue even in heaven after faith becomes sight and hope is fulfilled. The verse concludes the famous “Love Chapter” by showing that love is the indispensable motive and highest expression of a life lived for God.