1 Corinthians 4:12

12 and we labor, working with our own hands. Being reviled, we bless; being 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 are wise in Christ; we are weak, but ye are strong; ye are honorable, but we are despised.

11 Even unto this present hour we both hunger and thirst, and are naked and are buffeted, and have no certain dwelling place,

12 and we labor, working with our own hands. Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we suffer it;

13 being defamed, we entreat. We are made as the filth of the world, and are the offscouring of all things unto this day.

14 I write these things not to shame you, but to warn you as my beloved sons.