1 Corinthians 4:10

Translations

Modern

We are fools for Christ, but you are wise in Christ. We are weak, but you are strong. You are honored, but we are dishonored.

Traditional

We are fools for Christ’s sake, but ye are wise in Christ; we are weak, but ye are strong; ye are honourable, but we are despised.

Literal

We are fools on account of Christ, but you are wise in Christ; we are weak, but you are strong; you are glorious, but we are without honor.

Latin

Nos stulti propter Christum, vos autem prudentes in Christo: nos infirmi, vos autem fortes: vos nobiles, nos autem ignobiles.

Original

Greek

English

We are fools for Christ, but you are wise in Christ. We are weak, but you are strong. You are honored, but we are dishonored.

Notes

1 Corinthians 4:8–13

Paul points out the difference between himself and the Corinthians. Their attitudes show worldly wisdom, while his shows God's wisdom. The Corinthians were proud and thought they had achieved everything, but they still had much to learn (see Revelation 3:17–18; compare with Philippians 3:12–14). If they had truly achieved everything, they would share in Paul's suffering (1 Corinthians 4:11–13). Unlike the Corinthians, who were proud of their achievements and the respect they received, the apostles faced scorn and contempt.

1 Corinthians 4:6–21

Paul criticizes the Corinthian Christians for their arrogance (1 Corinthians 4:6–13) and then advises them like a father (4:14–21).

Theme notes and profiles

Paul (Saul) Paul’s Role as an Apostle

Related verses

1 Corinthians 2:3
I came to you in weakness and fear, and with much trembling.
1 Corinthians 3:18
Let no one deceive himself. If any of you thinks he is wise in this age, he should become a fool, so that he may become wise.
2 Corinthians 13:9
In fact, we rejoice when we are weak but you are strong, and our prayer is for your perfection.
Acts 26:24
At this stage of Paul’s defense, Festus exclaimed in a loud voice, “You are insane, Paul! Your great learning is driving you to madness!”
Acts 17:18
Some Epicurean and Stoic philosophers also began to debate with him. Some of them asked, “What is this babbler trying to say?” Others said, “He seems to be advocating foreign gods.” They said this because Paul was proclaiming the good news of Jesus and the resurrection.
2 Corinthians 11:19
For you gladly put up with fools, since you are so wise.
1 Peter 4:14
If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.
Proverbs 11:12
Whoever shows contempt for his neighbor lacks judgment, but a man of understanding remains silent.
Hosea 9:7
The days of punishment have come; the days of retribution have arrived—let Israel know it. The prophet is called a fool, and the inspired man insane, because of the greatness of your iniquity and hostility.
2 Kings 9:11
When Jehu went out to the servants of his master, they asked, “Is everything all right? Why did this madman come to you?” “You know his kind and their babble,” he replied.
2 Corinthians 13:3–4
…since you are demanding proof that Christ is speaking through me. He is not weak in dealing with you but is powerful among you.
Luke 18:9
To some who trusted in their own righteousness and viewed others with contempt, He also told this parable:

People

Jesus: The Son of God and Savior of the world

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) First Letter to the Corinthians God, Being and Attributes of

Topics

Christian Minister: Character and Attributes of Christian Minister: Trials and Persecutions of Persecution of the Righteous Pride: General Scriptures Concerning Religious Zeal: Exemplified by Paul

1 Corinthians 4:10

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