1 Corinthians 4:12

12 and labour, working with our own hands. Railed at, we bless; persecuted, we suffer [it];

1 Corinthians 4:12 Meaning and Commentary

1 Corinthians 4:12

And labour, working with our own hands
As the apostle did at Corinth, ( Acts 18:3 ) and elsewhere; partly to minister to his own necessities, and those of others; and partly that he might not be burdensome to the churches; and also to set an example of diligence and industry to others; though he had a right and power to claim a maintenance of those to whom he ministered.

Being reviled, we bless;
as Christ commanded, ( Matthew 5:44 ) and the apostle himself directed and exhorted to, ( Romans 12:14 )

being persecuted, we suffer it;
that is, patiently; neither resisting our persecutors, nor murmuring and repining at our unhappy circumstances; but taking all in good part, as what is the will of God, and will make for his glory.

1 Corinthians 4:12 In-Context

10 *We* [are] fools for Christ's sake, but *ye* prudent in Christ: *we* weak, but *ye* strong: *ye* glorious, but *we* in dishonour.

11 To the present hour we both hunger and thirst, and are in nakedness, and buffeted, and wander without a home,

12 and labour, working with our own hands. Railed at, we bless; persecuted, we suffer [it];

13 insulted, we entreat: we are become as [the] offscouring of the world, [the] refuse of all, until now.

14 Not [as] chiding do I write these things to you, but as my beloved children I admonish [you].