1 Corinthians 4:9-16

New International Version

⁹ For it seems to me that God has put us apostles on display at the end of the procession, like those condemned to die^(A) in the arena. We have been made a spectacle^(B) to the whole universe, to angels as well as to human beings. ¹⁰ We are fools for Christ,^(C) but you are so wise in Christ!^(D) We are weak, but you are strong!^(E) You are honored, we are dishonored! ¹¹ To this very hour we go hungry and thirsty, we are in rags, we are brutally treated, we are homeless.^{(F) 12} We work hard with our own hands.^(G) When we are cursed, we bless;^(H) when we are persecuted,^(I) we endure it; ¹³ when we are slandered, we answer kindly. We have become the scum of the earth, the garbage^(J) of the world—right up to this moment.

Paul’s Appeal and Warning

¹⁴ I am writing this not to shame you^(K) but to warn you as my dear children.^{(L) 15} Even if you had ten thousand guardians in Christ, you do not have many fathers, for in Christ Jesus I became your father^(M) through the gospel.^{(N) 16} Therefore I urge you to imitate me.^(O)