1 Corinthians 4:12

Authorized King James Version

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

Word-by-Word Analysis

καὶ

G2532

And

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

κοπιῶμεν

G2872

labour

to feel fatigue; by implication, to work hard

ἐργαζόμενοι

G2038

working

to toil (as a task, occupation, etc.), (by implication) effect, be engaged in or with, etc

ταῖς

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἰδίαις

G2398

with our own

pertaining to self, i.e., one's own; by implication, private or separate

χερσίν·

G5495

hands

the hand (literally or figuratively (power); especially (by hebraism) a means or instrument)

λοιδορούμενοι

G3058

being reviled

to reproach, i.e., vilify

εὐλογοῦμεν

G2127

we bless

to speak well of, i.e., (religiously) to bless (thank or invoke a benediction upon, prosper)

διωκόμενοι

G1377

being persecuted

compare the base of g1169 and g1249); to pursue (literally or figuratively); by implication, to persecute

#10

ἀνεχόμεθα

G430

we suffer it

to hold oneself up against, i.e., (figuratively) put up with

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 1 Corinthians.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?

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