Keraia
1 Corinthians 4

1 Corinthians 4:12

Servants of Christ · 1 Corinthians 4:1–13
Read 1 Corinthians 4

Translations

Modern
We work hard with our own hands. When we are vilified, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it;
Traditional
And labour, working with our own hands: being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we suffer it:
Literal
…and we toil, working with our own hands. Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we bear it;
Latin
…et laboramus operantes manibus nostris: maledicimur, et benedicimus: persecutionem patimur, et sustinemus:

Original

Greek
English
We work hard with our own hands. When we are vilified, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it;

Notes

1 Corinthians 4:12
1 Corinthians 4:11–13

Paul reminds the Corinthians of the hardships he endured for Christ (see 2 Corinthians 6:4–5; 11:23–28).

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).

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) First Letter to the Corinthians Hand

Topics

Christian Minister: Character and Attributes of Christian Minister: Trials and Persecutions of Forgiveness of Enemies Persecution of the Righteous Persecution: Saints Suffering, should Exhibit Patience Religious Zeal: Exemplified by Paul Reviling and Reproaching: Saints: Return Blessings For Self-Denial: Paul, in Laboring for his own Support While he Also Taught Suffering for Christ