1 Corinthians 4:13

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

Study Bible

when we are slandered
The Greek word for "slandered" is "dusphēmoumenoi," which implies being spoken of in an evil or defamatory manner. In the historical context of the early church, Christians were often misunderstood and maligned by both Jewish and pagan communities. This phrase highlights the reality of persecution and the call to respond with grace. It reflects Jesus' teaching in Matthew 5:44 to love enemies and pray for those who persecute you, emphasizing a Christ-like response to adversity.

we answer kindly
The Greek term "parakaloumen" suggests not just a gentle response but an exhortation or encouragement. This reflects the Christian ethic of returning good for evil, as seen in Romans 12:21. The early church fathers, such as Polycarp, exemplified this attitude, often responding to persecution with forgiveness and love. This phrase encourages believers to maintain a spirit of gentleness and peace, even when faced with hostility.

Up to this moment
This phrase indicates the ongoing nature of the apostles' experiences. The Greek "achri arti" suggests a continuous state, emphasizing that the trials faced by Paul and his companions were not momentary but persistent. Historically, this reflects the constant challenges faced by early Christians, who were often marginalized and oppressed. It serves as a reminder of the enduring nature of Christian witness in the face of adversity.

we have become the scum of the earth
The term "perikatharmata" in Greek refers to the refuse or filth that is scraped off. In ancient times, this word was used to describe the lowest of the low, often associated with those who were sacrificed to appease the gods during plagues or disasters. Paul uses this vivid imagery to convey the depth of humiliation and rejection experienced by the apostles. It underscores the cost of discipleship and the willingness to be seen as nothing for the sake of Christ.

the refuse of the world
The Greek word "peripsēma" is similar to "perikatharmata," reinforcing the idea of being considered worthless or disposable. This phrase highlights the contrast between the world's values and God's values. While the world may see believers as insignificant, God sees them as precious and chosen. This serves as an encouragement to Christians to find their identity and worth in Christ, rather than in societal approval.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of 1 Corinthians, addressing the church in Corinth. He is sharing his experiences and the hardships faced by apostles.

2. Corinth
A major city in ancient Greece, known for its wealth and immorality. The church in Corinth was dealing with issues of division and immorality.

3. Apostles
The early Christian leaders, including Paul, who were spreading the gospel and facing persecution and slander for their faith.

Teaching Points

Responding to Slander with Gentleness
As Christians, we are called to respond to slander and persecution with a gentle spirit, reflecting Christ's love and patience.

Embracing Humility
Paul’s description of being the "scum of the earth" challenges us to embrace humility and recognize that our worth is found in Christ, not in worldly status.

Perseverance in Faith
Despite being treated as refuse, the apostles persevered in their mission. We are encouraged to remain steadfast in our faith, even when facing adversity.

Identifying with Christ's Suffering
The apostles' experiences remind us that suffering for the sake of the gospel aligns us with Christ, who also faced rejection and scorn.

Living Counter-Culturally
The Christian life often runs counter to societal values, and we must be prepared to stand firm in our beliefs, even when misunderstood or marginalized.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Paul's response to slander in 1 Corinthians 4:13 challenge our natural reactions to criticism or persecution?

2. In what ways can we cultivate a spirit of gentleness when facing opposition, as Paul describes?

3. How does understanding our identity in Christ help us to embrace humility, even when the world views us as "the scum of the earth"?

4. What are some practical ways we can persevere in our faith when we feel like we are being treated as "refuse" by the world?

5. How can we draw strength from other scriptures, such as Matthew 5:11-12 and Romans 12:14-21, to live out the teachings of 1 Corinthians 4:13 in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 5:11-12
Jesus speaks about being blessed when persecuted for righteousness, which parallels Paul's experience of being slandered and considered the "scum of the earth."

2 Corinthians 6:8-10
Paul again describes the paradox of the apostles' lives, being treated as impostors yet true, unknown yet well-known, dying yet living.

Romans 12:14-21
Paul instructs believers to bless those who persecute them and to overcome evil with good, echoing the gentle response to slander mentioned in 1 Corinthians 4:13.