1 Corinthians 4:10
We are fools for Christ's sake, but ye are wise in Christ; we are weak, but ye are strong; ye are honourable, but we are despised.
Original Language Analysis
μωροὶ
are fools
G3474
μωροὶ
are fools
Strong's:
G3474
Word #:
2 of 19
dull or stupid (as if shut up), i.e., heedless, (morally) blockhead, (apparently) absurd
διὰ
for
G1223
διὰ
for
Strong's:
G1223
Word #:
3 of 19
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
φρόνιμοι
are wise
G5429
φρόνιμοι
are wise
Strong's:
G5429
Word #:
7 of 19
thoughtful, i.e., sagacious or discreet (implying a cautious character; while g4680 denotes practical skill or acumen; and g4908 indicates rather inte
ἀσθενεῖς
are weak
G772
ἀσθενεῖς
are weak
Strong's:
G772
Word #:
11 of 19
strengthless (in various applications, literal, figurative and moral)
Cross References
1 Corinthians 2:3And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling.Acts 26:24And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad.Acts 17:18Then certain philosophers of the Epicureans, and of the Stoicks, encountered him. And some said, What will this babbler say? other some, He seemeth to be a setter forth of strange gods: because he preached unto them Jesus, and the resurrection.1 Corinthians 3:18Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise.2 Corinthians 13:9For we are glad, when we are weak, and ye are strong: and this also we wish, even your perfection.1 Peter 4:14If 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.
Historical Context
The honor-shame dynamics of Greco-Roman culture prized public esteem, rhetorical skill, and social status. Philosophy promised wisdom; rhetoric conferred honor; patronage secured power. Paul's embrace of shame and weakness scandalized both Jewish and Greek sensibilities (1:23). His ironic reversal here anticipates 2 Corinthians 12:10: "When I am weak, then I am strong." True apostolic power manifests in Christ-like suffering, not cultural accolades.
Questions for Reflection
- In what areas of life are you more concerned with appearing 'wise, strong, and honorable' by worldly standards than embracing foolishness, weakness, and dishonor for Christ?
- How does this verse challenge the contemporary evangelical emphasis on confidence, influence, and cultural engagement without corresponding emphasis on suffering and marginalization?
- What specific ways might God be calling you to embrace weakness or dishonor for gospel faithfulness?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
We are fools for Christ's sake, but ye are wise in Christ; we are weak, but ye are strong; ye are honourable, but we are despised. Paul presents three contrasts dripping with irony. Mōroi (μωροί, "fools")—Paul embraces the term used against him (1:18-25), while Corinthians consider themselves phronimoi (φρόνιμοι, "wise/prudent"). The second pair: astheneis (ἀσθενεῖς, "weak") versus ischyroi (ἰσχυροί, "strong")—reverses worldly values. The third: endoxoi (ἔνδοξοι, "honored/glorious") versus atimoi (ἄτιμοι, "dishonored/despised")—contrasts public reputation.
The phrase dia Christon (διὰ Χριστόν, "for Christ's sake/because of Christ") distinguishes Paul's foolishness from mere stupidity—it results from faithful proclamation of a crucified Messiah. Meanwhile, Corinthian "wisdom in Christ" rings hollow, a self-deceived confidence divorced from cross-bearing reality. Paul's sarcasm exposes their dissociation of Christian identity from Christian suffering—they wanted the crown without the cross.