1 Corinthians 4:12

12 And we labour, working with our own hands. We are reviled: and we bless. We are persecuted: and 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 Christs sake, but you are wise in Christ: we are weak, but you are strong: you are honourable, but we without honour.

11 Even unto this hour we both hunger and thirst and are naked and are buffeted and have no fixed abode.

12 And we labour, working with our own hands. We are reviled: and we bless. We are persecuted: and we suffer it.

13 We are blasphemed: and we entreat. We are made as the refuse of this world, the offscouring of all, even until now.

14 I write not these things to confound you: but I admonish you as my dearest children.