Keraia
1 Corinthians 4

1 Corinthians 4:13

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

Translations

Modern
…when we are slandered, we answer gently. Up to this moment we have become the scum of the earth, the refuse of the world.
Traditional
Being defamed, we intreat: we are made as the filth of the world, and are the offscouring of all things unto this day.
Literal
…being slandered, we entreat. We became as the scum of the world, the refuse of all, until now.
Latin
…blasphemamur, et obsecramus: tamquam purgamenta hujus mundi facti sumus, omnium peripsema usque adhuc.

Original

Greek
English
…when we are slandered, we answer gently. Up to this moment we have become the scum of the earth, the refuse of the world.

Notes

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).

Theme notes and profiles

Paul (Saul) Paul’s Role as an Apostle

Glossary

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

Topics

Afflicted Saints: Examples of Afflicted Saints: Apostles Christian Minister: Character and Attributes of Christian Minister: Trials and Persecutions of Forgiveness of Enemies Persecution of the Righteous Religious Zeal: Exemplified by Paul Slander: Includes: Defaming Slander: Saints: should Return Good For Slander: should Return Good For Slander: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Suffering for Christ