1 Corinthians 4:12

KJV

And labour, working with our own hands: being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we suffer it:

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} labour {G2872}, working {G2038} with our own {G2398} hands {G5495}: being reviled {G3058}, we bless {G2127}; being persecuted {G1377}, we suffer it {G430}:

Complete Jewish Bible

we exhaust ourselves working with our own hands for our living. When we are cursed, we keep on blessing; when we are persecuted, we go on putting up with it;

Berean Standard Bible

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

American Standard Version

and we toil, working with our own hands: being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
The Apostle Paul continues his poignant contrast between the self-exalting attitudes prevalent in the Corinthian church and the genuine, self-sacrificial nature of true apostolic ministry. He outlines the practical hardships endured by himself and his fellow apostles, emphasizing their commitment to diligent labor, their counter-cultural response of blessing in the face of revilement, and their patient endurance of persecution, thereby modeling a profound humility and Christ-like resilience for the believers.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of Paul's broader argument in [1 Corinthians 4](/1_corinthians/4 "1 Corinthians 4 - Apostles as Servants of Christ") concerning the nature of true spiritual leadership and the Corinthians' misguided pride. Following his discussion of unity and the dangers of factionalism in [1 Corinthians 1-3](/1_corinthians/1-3 "1 Corinthians 1-3 - Divisions and Wisdom"), Paul shifts to defend his own apostolic authority, which had been questioned or undervalued. In [1 Corinthians 4:1-5](/1_cororthians/4-1-5 "1 Corinthians 4:1-5 - Stewards of God's Mysteries"), he asserts that apostles are merely "servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God," accountable only to the Lord. The immediate context of [1 Corinthians 4:9-13](/1_corinthians/4-9-13 "1 Corinthians 4:9-13 - The Apostles as a Spectacle") presents a stark, almost theatrical, portrayal of the apostles as "fools for Christ's sake," enduring public shame, hunger, thirst, and homelessness, in stark contrast to the Corinthians' self-perceived wisdom, strength, and honor. Verse 12 specifically details some of these hardships and the apostles' counter-intuitive, Christ-like responses.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's practice of "working with our own hands" (Gk. _ergázomai_) points to his well-documented trade as a tentmaker (cf. [Acts 18:3](/acts/18-3 "Acts 18:3 - Paul's Tentmaking in Corinth")). In the Greco-Roman world, manual labor was generally disdained by the elite and educated classes, often associated with slaves or the lowest social strata. Paul's choice to support himself, rather than relying solely on the financial support of the churches he ministered to, was counter-cultural and served several purposes: it prevented accusations of greed or exploitation, it demonstrated his commitment to the gospel's free proclamation, and it modeled diligence and self-sufficiency. The "reviling" and "persecution" mentioned were common experiences for early Christians, who faced social ostracism, verbal abuse, and sometimes physical violence from both Jewish and pagan communities for their refusal to conform to prevailing religious and social norms (cf. [Acts 17:5-9](/acts/17-5-9 "Acts 17:5-9 - Mob Attack in Thessalonica")).

* **Key Themes:** The verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within [1 Corinthians](/1_corinthians "1 Corinthians - Divisions, Morality, and Order in the Church") and Paul's broader theology. **Humility and Self-Sacrifice** are paramount, as Paul exemplifies a leadership that embraces lowliness and suffering rather than worldly status or comfort, directly challenging the Corinthians' spiritual arrogance. The theme of **Christ-like Suffering** is evident in the apostles' willingness to endure hardship and their radical response to opposition, mirroring Jesus' own example of suffering and non-retaliation (cf. [1 Peter 2:21-23](/1_peter/2-21-23 "1 Peter 2:21-23 - Christ's Example of Suffering")). **Apostolic Authenticity** is also underscored; Paul argues that true divine authority is not demonstrated through worldly power or ease, but through faithful endurance and suffering for the sake of the gospel, aligning with his later teachings on strength in weakness (cf. [2 Corinthians 12:9-10](/2_corinthians/12-9-10 "2 Corinthians 12:9-10 - Paul's Thorn in the Flesh")). Finally, **Christian Ethics and Response to Evil** are highlighted, as the command to "bless" those who revile embodies the radical love and grace central to the Christian faith, echoing Jesus' Sermon on the Mount (cf. [Matthew 5:44](/matthew/5-44 "Matthew 5:44 - Love Your Enemies")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **labour (Greek, _kopiáō'_):** From a derivative of _kópos_, meaning "to feel fatigue; by implication, to work hard." This word signifies strenuous, exhausting effort, often to the point of weariness. Paul uses it to describe the intense physical and mental exertion involved in his self-supporting ministry, indicating a profound dedication and willingness to expend all energy for the gospel.
* **reviled (Greek, _loidoréō'_):** From _loídoros_, meaning "to reproach, i.e., vilify." This term describes being verbally abused, insulted, slandered, or subjected to scornful language. It captures the experience of being publicly shamed and dishonored through malicious speech.
* **suffer it (Greek, _anéchomai'_):** Middle voice from _aná_ and _échō_, meaning "to hold oneself up against, i.e., (figuratively) put up with." This word conveys the idea of patiently bearing with, enduring, or tolerating something difficult without retaliating or giving in. It implies active resilience and steadfastness in the face of adversity.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And labour, working with our own hands":** This clause highlights the apostles' commitment to self-sufficiency and diligence. Paul, as a tentmaker, engaged in physically demanding labor to provide for his needs, avoiding being a financial burden on the Corinthian church. This practice served as a powerful example of humility and dedication, countering any perception that spiritual leaders should live lives of ease or entitlement. It underscores the dignity of honest work and the principle of not exploiting one's ministry for personal gain.
* **"being reviled, we bless;":** This presents a radical, counter-intuitive response to verbal abuse. When subjected to insults, slander, or vilification, the apostles did not retaliate in kind but instead offered blessings. This reflects a profound commitment to Christ's teaching to love enemies and pray for persecutors, demonstrating a reliance on God's justice and a spirit of grace that transcends human anger and vengeance. It is a testament to the transformative power of the gospel in shaping one's character.
* **"being persecuted, we suffer it:":** This clause describes the apostles' patient endurance in the face of active harassment, ill-treatment, or pursuit for their faith. Rather than resisting, complaining, or seeking immediate relief, they chose to bear the suffering with resilience and steadfastness. This is not passive resignation but an active, faith-filled decision to remain firm in their mission and trust in God's sovereign plan, even amidst adversity. It signifies a willingness to embrace hardship as part of the apostolic calling.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several powerful **Literary Devices** in this concise verse to underscore his message. The primary device is **Antithesis**, as Paul juxtaposes the apostles' humble, suffering existence with the Corinthians' perceived prosperity and arrogance, which he has been subtly critiquing throughout the chapter. This contrast highlights the true nature of spiritual authority. There is also a strong element of **Paradox**, particularly in the phrase "being reviled, we bless." This presents a seemingly contradictory action that defies conventional human logic, yet it is central to Christian ethics and demonstrates the transformative power of the Spirit. Paul also uses **Exemplum**, presenting his own life and the lives of the other apostles as a living illustration of genuine Christian discipleship and leadership, providing a tangible model for the Corinthians to emulate. The verse's structure, moving from physical labor to spiritual responses to persecution, creates a vivid **Juxtaposition** of the mundane and the profound, showing how everyday hardships are met with supernatural grace.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly articulates a theology of suffering and response that is central to the New Testament. It teaches that true spiritual power and authority are often manifested not in worldly success or comfort, but in humble service, self-sacrifice, and patient endurance of hardship for the sake of the gospel. The command to "bless" those who revile is a radical ethical principle rooted in the very character of God, who shows grace to the undeserving. It underscores the call for believers to transcend natural human reactions of retaliation and instead embody divine love and forgiveness, trusting God to be the ultimate arbiter of justice. This counter-cultural response serves as a powerful witness to the world, demonstrating the transformative power of Christ in the lives of His followers.

* [Matthew 5:44](/matthew/5-44 "Matthew 5:44 - Love Your Enemies"): "But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;"
* [Romans 12:14](/romans/12-14 "Romans 12:14 - Bless Those Who Persecute You"): "Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not."
* [2 Timothy 3:12](/2_timothy/3-12 "2 Timothy 3:12 - Persecution for Godliness"): "Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[1 Corinthians 4:12](/1_corinthians/4-12 "1 Corinthians 4:12 - Paul's Apostolic Suffering") offers timeless and challenging principles for contemporary believers. It calls us to re-evaluate our understanding of success, leadership, and our responses to adversity. Are we willing to embrace diligent, even humble, labor, avoiding a spirit of entitlement or laziness, and seeking to be a blessing rather than a burden? More profoundly, when faced with criticism, insults, or unfair treatment, do we instinctively retaliate, or do we, by the power of the Holy Spirit, choose the radical path of blessing and prayer for those who mistreat us? This verse reminds us that following Christ does not promise a life free from opposition, but rather equips us with the grace to patiently endure suffering, trusting in God's ultimate purposes and demonstrating the resilience of faith. It challenges us to cultivate a character that reflects Christ's own humility and sacrificial love, making our lives a powerful testimony to the gospel in a world often consumed by self-interest and retaliation.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life am I tempted to seek comfort or worldly recognition instead of embracing humble service and diligent labor?**
* **How do I typically respond when I am reviled, criticized, or slandered? What practical steps can I take to cultivate a spirit of blessing instead of retaliation?**
* **What specific persecutions or hardships am I currently enduring for my faith, and how can I "suffer it" with greater patience and trust in God's sovereignty?**
* **How does Paul's example challenge my preconceived notions of what true spiritual leadership or maturity looks like?**

### FAQ

**Why was it important for Paul to work with his own hands, even as an apostle?**

Answer: Paul's decision to "labour, working with our own hands" was significant for several reasons. First, it demonstrated his personal integrity and commitment to the gospel, preventing accusations that he was preaching for financial gain (cf. [1 Thessalonians 2:9](/1_thessalonians/2-9 "1 Thessalonians 2:9 - Paul's Labor")). In a culture where many philosophers and religious teachers charged fees, Paul's self-sufficiency underscored the freeness of the gospel message. Second, it provided a powerful example of diligence and humility, especially in a Greco-Roman society that often disdained manual labor. Paul modeled a strong work ethic for new converts, countering any notion that Christian faith exempted one from honest toil. Finally, it allowed him to avoid being a financial burden on nascent churches, particularly in Corinth where some members were wealthy and others poor, thus maintaining his independence and preventing potential divisions or accusations of patronage.

**How can believers "bless" those who revile them, especially when it feels impossible?**

Answer: To "bless" those who revile us (Gk. _eulogéō_, to speak well of or invoke divine favor upon) is one of the most challenging commands in the New Testament, echoing Jesus' teaching in the [Sermon on the Mount](/matthew/5 "Matthew 5 - The Sermon on the Mount"). It is not a natural human response but a supernatural one, empowered by the Holy Spirit. Practically, it means refusing to retaliate with insults or curses, choosing instead to speak kindly, pray for their well-being, and desire God's good for them, even if they remain hostile. This act stems from a heart that trusts God for justice and seeks the transformation of the enemy, rather than their condemnation. It is a radical demonstration of Christ's love and a powerful witness to the world, as it reveals a character shaped by divine grace, not human vengeance (cf. [Luke 6:28](/luke/6-28 "Luke 6:28 - Bless Those Who Curse You")).

**What does it mean to "suffer it" when persecuted? Is it passive resignation?**

Answer: To "suffer it" (Gk. _anéchomai_, to put up with, endure, bear with) in the context of persecution is not passive resignation but active, patient endurance. It means choosing to remain steadfast in faith and mission despite ill-treatment, harassment, or opposition, rather than retaliating, complaining, or abandoning one's convictions. It implies a resilient spirit that trusts in God's sovereignty and purposes even amidst adversity. The apostles were not advocating for a lack of self-defense or justice where appropriate, but rather a spirit that would not be deterred from its gospel mission by external pressures or personal discomfort. This endurance demonstrates a deep reliance on God's strength and a commitment to Christ's example of suffering for righteousness' sake (cf. [1 Peter 2:20-21](/1_peter/2-20-21 "1 Peter 2:20-21 - Suffering for Righteousness")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[1 Corinthians 4:12](/1_corinthians/4-12 "1 Corinthians 4:12 - Paul's Apostolic Suffering") finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Paul's life of self-sacrificial labor, his non-retaliatory response to revilement, and his patient endurance of persecution are not merely moral imperatives but direct reflections of Christ's own earthly ministry. Jesus, though God, "made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Humiliation")), embodying the ultimate humility and willingness to "labour" for the salvation of humanity, even to the point of death on a cross. When "reviled," Jesus "did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly" ([1 Peter 2:23](/1_peter/2-23 "1 Peter 2:23 - Christ's Example of Suffering")). He blessed those who cursed Him, even praying for His executioners from the cross ([Luke 23:34](/luke/23-34 "Luke 23:34 - Jesus Forgives His Executioners")). Furthermore, Jesus "suffered" the ultimate persecution, enduring the cross "for the joy that was set before him" ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Looking to Jesus, the Founder and Perfecter of Our Faith")), demonstrating perfect endurance. Thus, Paul's apostolic experience in [1 Corinthians 4:12](/1_corinthians/4-12 "1 Corinthians 4:12 - Paul's Apostolic Suffering") is not just a model to imitate, but a Spirit-empowered participation in the very life and suffering of Christ, revealing the true nature of the kingdom where strength is found in weakness, and victory through sacrificial love.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Peter 3:9

Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.

Matthew 5:11

Blessed are ye, when [men] shall revile you, and persecute [you], and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.

1 Peter 4:12

¶ Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:

1 Peter 4:14

If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy [are ye]; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.

Romans 12:14

Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.

Luke 6:28

Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you.

Acts 18:3

And because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they were tentmakers.