1 Corinthians 4:12

12 We work hard with our own hands. When we are vilified, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure 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, but you are wise in Christ. We are weak, but you are strong. You are honored, but we are dishonored.

11 To this very hour we are hungry and thirsty, we are poorly clothed, we are brutally treated, we are homeless.

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

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

14 I am not writing this to shame you, but to warn you as my beloved children.