The lecture revolves around the verse “Love never fails,” explaining that true love—spiritual, pure, and unselfish—remains firm and unshaken regardless of mistakes, trials, or offenses.

The nature of unfailing love

His Holiness Pope Shenouda III explains that true love does not seek its own and does not change with circumstances. It does not fall before insults, difficulties, or danger. It remains firm because it comes from a heart filled with God.

Biblical examples of steadfast love

The lecture presents many examples from Scripture:

• David’s love for Jonathan and for Saul, despite Saul’s persecution.

• Jacob’s unwavering love for Joseph.

• The father’s love for the prodigal son.

• Christ’s love for Peter after his denial, even restoring him to apostleship.

• God’s love for His people despite their sins and apostasy, and His acceptance of the repentant.

Love that triumphs over pain and sin

His Holiness explains that divine love did not retreat even before the cross, as Christ prayed: “Father, forgive them.” Such love transforms hearts, as in the story of Longinus the soldier who pierced Christ and later believed.

Love that overcomes hardships

The lecture mentions:

• David saving the lamb from the lion and the bear.

• The sailors trying to save Jonah.

• Ruth and Naomi’s mutual love.

• The Good Samaritan’s compassion.

Love in the face of persecution and trials

True love does not fall before fire or lions, as in Daniel and the three youths. It does not fall under trials like Job, nor under torture as shown in the lives of the martyrs.

Love in the lives of the saints and shepherds

His Holiness recounts stories of pastoral love, such as St. Peter the Seal of the Martyrs offering himself instead of the people, and St. Julius of Akfahs caring for the martyrs’ bodies despite danger.

Spiritual conclusion

The speaker calls for steadfast love toward God and toward one another. God allows trials to test the firmness of our love, and those who remain steadfast are the ones who will live with Him in the Kingdom, for “many waters cannot quench love, nor can the floods drown it.”

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