1 Corinthians 4:13

KJV

Being defamed, we intreat: we are made as the filth of the world, [and are] the offscouring of all things unto this day.

KJV (with Strong's)

Being defamed {G987}, we intreat {G3870}: we are made {G1096} as {G5613} the filth {G4027} of the world {G2889}, and are the offscouring {G4067} of all things {G3956} unto {G2193} this day {G737}.

Complete Jewish Bible

when we are slandered, we continue making our appeal. We are the world’s garbage, the scum of the earth — yes, to this moment!

Berean Standard Bible

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

American Standard Version

being defamed, we entreat: we are made as the filth of the world, the offscouring of all things, even until now.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
The Apostle Paul, addressing the self-inflated pride of the Corinthian church, starkly contrasts their worldly aspirations with the humble and suffering reality of his apostolic ministry. In 1 Corinthians 4:13, he vividly describes himself and his fellow apostles as enduring extreme public contempt and degradation, being treated as the absolute refuse and lowest dregs of society, yet responding with grace and gentle persuasion. This verse powerfully underscores the paradoxical nature of true spiritual authority, which often manifests not in worldly honor but in profound humility and self-sacrificial endurance for the sake of the gospel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within Paul's broader defense of his apostolic ministry and authority against the backdrop of division and pride within the Corinthian church. In [1 Corinthians 4](/1_corinthians/4 "1 Corinthians 4 - Apostolic Ministry and Humility"), Paul challenges the Corinthians' worldly wisdom and their tendency to boast in human leaders, contrasting their "puffed up" attitudes (e.g., [1 Corinthians 4:6](/1_corinthians/4-6 "1 Corinthians 4:6 - Not Puffed Up")) with the true nature of apostleship. He uses powerful irony in [1 Corinthians 4:8-10](/1_corinthians/4-8-10 "1 Corinthians 4:8-10 - Paul's Ironic Contrast") to highlight their perceived spiritual wealth and honor compared to the apostles' destitution and scorn. Verse 13 serves as a climactic statement in this contrast, illustrating the depth of the apostles' humiliation and suffering, which they endure as "fools for Christ's sake" ([1 Corinthians 4:10](/1_corinthians/4-10 "1 Corinthians 4:10 - Apostles as Fools for Christ")). This sets the stage for Paul's paternal appeal in [1 Corinthians 4:14-16](/1_corinthians/4-14-16 "1 Corinthians 4:14-16 - Paul's Paternal Exhortation"), urging them to imitate his Christ-like example of suffering and humility.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the Greco-Roman world, public honor, rhetorical skill, and social status were highly valued. Corinth, a wealthy and cosmopolitan port city, was particularly susceptible to these worldly influences. Philosophers and public speakers often competed for acclaim and followers, and the Corinthians were applying similar criteria to their spiritual leaders, preferring those who displayed outward signs of success and eloquence. The terms "filth of the world" (perikátharma) and "offscouring of all things" (perípsōma) carried extremely strong connotations. In some ancient mystery cults and even state rituals, these terms referred to individuals (often criminals or social outcasts) who were ritually sacrificed or expelled from a city (like a pharmakos or scapegoat) to cleanse it of pollution or avert disaster. Paul is not suggesting actual sacrifice, but he is drawing on the cultural understanding of these terms to convey the utter contempt and abjection with which the apostles were treated, viewed as human refuse to be discarded for the "purification" or benefit of society. This highlights the radical counter-cultural nature of the gospel and its messengers.
* **Key Themes:** [1 Corinthians](/1_corinthians/1 "The Book of 1 Corinthians") is replete with themes of wisdom, foolishness, power, weakness, and the nature of Christian community. This verse powerfully contributes to the theme of **Apostolic Suffering and Humility**, demonstrating that true spiritual authority in God's kingdom often involves enduring hardship and scorn, not worldly prestige or comfort. It underscores the **Paradox of the Gospel**, where God uses what the world considers "foolish" and "weak" to shame the "wise" and "strong" ([1 Corinthians 1:27-28](/1_corinthians/1-27-28 "1 Corinthians 1:27-28 - God Chooses the Foolish and Weak")). Furthermore, it highlights the theme of **Graceful Endurance in Persecution**, as Paul and his companions respond to defamation not with retaliation but with gentle entreaty, embodying the Christ-like response to hostility (cf. [Matthew 5:44](/matthew/5-44 "Matthew 5:44 - Love Your Enemies")). The apostles' treatment also illustrates the **World's Contempt for the Gospel**, revealing how society often despises those who faithfully proclaim Christ's message, viewing them as disposable and worthless.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **made (Greek, _gínomai'_):** This verb signifies "to come into being," "to become," or "to be brought to pass." In this context, it indicates the state or condition into which the apostles have been brought, not by their own choice, but by the actions and perceptions of others. It emphasizes the active process of their degradation, that they have *become* this despised thing in the eyes of the world.
* **filth (Greek, _perikátharma'_):** Derived from a compound of _perí_ (around) and _kathaírō_ (to cleanse), this term literally refers to sweepings, refuse, or rubbish. Figuratively, it denotes the lowest, most despicable dregs of society. Paul uses this word to convey that he and his fellow apostles were regarded as utterly worthless, like human waste to be discarded. It evokes the image of something ritually expelled to cleanse a community, highlighting their perceived role as scapegoats for society's ills.
* **offscouring (Greek, _perípsōma'_):** This word comes from a comparative of _perí_ (around) and a verb meaning "to rub." It refers to what is scraped or wiped off, such as dirt, scum, or residue. Like "filth," it conveys the idea of something utterly vile and discarded, reinforcing the extreme contempt and abjection with which the apostles were treated. The pairing of these two terms creates a powerful, almost hyperbolic, image of total degradation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Being defamed, we intreat":** This clause describes the apostles' experience and their counter-intuitive response. "Being defamed" (from _blasphēméō_) means they were slandered, reviled, or spoken evil against. Despite this verbal abuse and public scorn, their response is "we intreat" (from _parakaléō_). This verb implies a gentle appeal, an exhortation, or even a blessing and prayer, rather than retaliation or angry retort. It highlights their Christ-like endurance and commitment to love even those who persecute them.
* **"we are made as the filth of the world":** This phrase powerfully articulates the extreme degradation and contempt the apostles faced. "We are made" (from _gínomai_) indicates their current state. "As the filth of the world" employs a vivid metaphor, likening them to the most repulsive and discarded waste, seen as utterly valueless and deserving only of expulsion by the "world" (humanity alienated from God).
* **"and are the offscouring of all things unto this day.":** This final clause intensifies the previous statement, using a near-synonym to emphasize the depth of their abjection. "Offscouring" (from _perípsōma_) reinforces the image of being scraped off and discarded as worthless scum. The phrase "of all things" universalizes this contempt, suggesting they are despised by everyone and everything. "Unto this day" underscores the ongoing, continuous nature of this suffering and humiliation, emphasizing that this was not a temporary phase but a persistent reality of their apostolic ministry.

#### Literary Devices
Paul masterfully employs several literary devices to convey the profound suffering and humility of the apostles. **Metaphor** is central, as he likens himself and his companions to "the filth of the world" and "the offscouring of all things." These vivid images are not literal descriptions but powerful comparisons designed to evoke a sense of extreme degradation, worthlessness, and public scorn. The use of two such strong, almost synonymous terms creates an effect of **Hyperbole**, exaggerating their abject condition to underscore the vast chasm between the Corinthians' self-perception and the apostles' reality. This hyperbole serves to shock the Corinthians into recognizing the true cost of faithful gospel ministry. Furthermore, there is a strong element of **Antithesis** or **Contrast** throughout this chapter, and particularly in this verse. Paul contrasts the Corinthians' desire for honor and comfort with the apostles' experience of shame and suffering, highlighting the paradoxical nature of God's kingdom, where true strength is found in weakness and true honor in humility.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The profound degradation described in [1 Corinthians 4:13](/1_corinthians/4-13 "1 Corinthians 4:13 - Paul's Humiliation") reveals a core theological truth: the path of faithful discipleship, especially for those in leadership, often involves suffering and rejection from the world. This suffering is not a sign of God's disfavor but a mark of identification with Christ, who Himself was despised and rejected by humanity. The apostles' willingness to endure such ignominy, responding with grace rather than retaliation, exemplifies the transformative power of the gospel and the counter-cultural values of God's kingdom. It challenges believers to re-evaluate their understanding of success and influence, recognizing that true spiritual impact often flows from humility and self-sacrifice, mirroring the very nature of God's redemptive work.

* [Philippians 3:7-8](/philippians/3-7-8 "Philippians 3:7-8 - Paul Counts All as Loss for Christ")
* [2 Corinthians 4:7-12](/2_corinthians/4-7-12 "2 Corinthians 4:7-12 - Treasure in Jars of Clay")
* [Matthew 5:10-12](/matthew/5-10-12 "Matthew 5:10-12 - Blessed are the Persecuted")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's experience in [1 Corinthians 4:13](/1_corinthians/4-13 "1 Corinthians 4:13 - The Apostle's Abjection") remains profoundly relevant for believers today. In a world that often measures worth by status, wealth, and popularity, this verse calls us to embrace a radically different standard—the standard of Christ-like humility and sacrificial service. It reminds us that faithfully following Jesus may lead to misunderstanding, scorn, or even outright rejection from those who do not share our values. Yet, our response, like Paul's, should be one of grace, prayer, and gentle persuasion, rather than anger or retaliation. This commitment to love in the face of hatred is a powerful witness to the transforming power of the gospel. Ultimately, our identity and worth are found not in human approval but in our union with Christ, and our mission is to glorify Him, even if it means being considered "filth" or "offscouring" by the world. This verse challenges us to consider whether we are truly willing to bear the reproach of Christ for the sake of the gospel.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Paul's experience of being treated as "filth of the world" challenge my own understanding of what it means to be a successful or respected Christian?**
* **When I face criticism or rejection for my faith, how do I typically respond? What can I learn from Paul's example of "we intreat"?**
* **In what ways might my desire for worldly approval or comfort hinder my willingness to fully identify with Christ's suffering and the potential scorn that comes with it?**

### FAQ

**What does "filth of the world" and "offscouring of all things" truly mean in this context?**

Answer: These are extremely strong and derogatory terms used by Paul to describe the utter contempt and abjection with which he and his fellow apostles were treated by society. "Filth of the world" (Greek: _perikátharma_) refers to sweepings, refuse, or rubbish, often carrying the connotation of something ritually expelled to cleanse a city of pollution, like a scapegoat. "Offscouring of all things" (Greek: _perípsōma_) refers to what is scraped or wiped off, like dirt or scum. Together, they convey the idea that the apostles were regarded as the lowest, most worthless, and disposable elements of humanity, seen as utterly vile and deserving only of scorn and expulsion. Paul uses these terms not literally, but to powerfully convey the depth of their public humiliation and the world's disdain for the gospel message they carried.

**Why would Paul and the apostles be treated with such contempt?**

Answer: The apostles were treated with such contempt because their message and lifestyle directly challenged the prevailing values and power structures of the Greco-Roman world. In a society that valued honor, status, and worldly wisdom, the apostles preached a crucified Messiah—a concept considered "foolishness" to Greeks and a "stumbling block" to Jews ([1 Corinthians 1:23](/1_corinthians/1-23 "1 Corinthians 1:23 - Christ Crucified, a Stumbling Block and Foolishness")). They embraced humility, suffering, and self-sacrifice, which were antithetical to the pursuit of worldly prestige. Their radical message of Christ's kingdom often disrupted social norms, economic practices (e.g., idol worship, which supported many trades), and religious traditions, leading to hostility, slander, and persecution from those whose interests or worldview were threatened. Paul himself details many of his sufferings in [2 Corinthians 11:23-28](/2_corinthians/11-23-28 "2 Corinthians 11:23-28 - Paul's Sufferings as an Apostle"), demonstrating the constant hardship they endured.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Paul's experience of being "made as the filth of the world" and "the offscouring of all things" finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in Christ Himself. Jesus, though God incarnate, "made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Humiliation")). He was born in humble circumstances, associated with the marginalized, and was ultimately "despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief" ([Isaiah 53:3](/isaiah/53-3 "Isaiah 53:3 - The Suffering Servant")). On the cross, Jesus became the ultimate "offscouring," bearing the sin and shame of humanity, treated as the most vile criminal, "cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree" ([Galatians 3:13](/galatians/3-13 "Galatians 3:13 - Christ Redeemed Us from the Curse")). He was the true _pharmakos_, the one expelled and sacrificed for the purification of the world, taking upon Himself the "filth" of our sin so that we might become the righteousness of God ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Became Sin for Us")). Thus, the apostles' suffering was not merely hardship, but a participation in the suffering of Christ ([Philippians 3:10](/philippians/3-10 "Philippians 3:10 - Sharing in Christ's Sufferings")), a living out of the gospel's paradoxical power where weakness leads to strength, and humiliation to ultimate glory. They exemplified the truth that to follow Christ is to embrace the cross, identifying with the one who became the ultimate outcast for our redemption.

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

Lamentations 3:45

Thou hast made us [as] the offscouring and refuse in the midst of the people.

Acts 22:22

¶ And they gave him audience unto this word, and [then] lifted up their voices, and said, Away with such a [fellow] from the earth: for it is not fit that he should live.