New Testament
1 Corinthians 4:11
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Paul shares the harsh realities faced by him and his companions.
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 55
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- The church in Corinth
Right up to this very moment, we go hungry and thirsty. We're poorly clothed, roughly treated, and have no permanent home.
Even unto this present hour we both hunger, and thirst, and are naked, and are buffeted, and have no certain dwellingplace;
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Paul shares the harsh realities faced by him and his companions. They experience hunger and thirst, which highlights their physical struggles. Their lack of proper clothing and being treated poorly shows the challenges they endure. Additionally, not having a permanent home emphasizes their instability and vulnerability. Despite these hardships, they remain committed to their mission. This passage illustrates the sacrifices made for a greater purpose, reminding us that dedication often comes with personal cost. It encourages us to reflect on our own lives and the challenges we face in pursuit of our goals. Paul's experience serves as a powerful reminder that perseverance in the face of adversity can lead to meaningful outcomes, even when circumstances are tough. It invites us to consider how we respond to our own struggles and the importance of resilience in our journeys. Ultimately, it teaches us that true strength often emerges from enduring difficult times.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 1 Corinthians 4:11 to your life
When facing challenges, remember that perseverance can lead to growth. Reflect on your own struggles and how they shape your character. Embrace resilience and stay committed to your goals, even when the journey gets tough. Your dedication can inspire others and create meaningful change in your life and the lives of those around you.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Corinthians Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Corinthians 4:11 mean?
1 Corinthians 4:11 highlights the hardships faced by Paul and his companions, including hunger, thirst, and lack of proper shelter. It emphasizes their commitment to their mission despite these struggles, illustrating the sacrifices made for a greater purpose.
What is the significance of hunger and thirst in 1 Corinthians 4:11?
Hunger and thirst in 1 Corinthians 4:11 symbolize the physical struggles and sacrifices that Paul and his companions endure. These elements serve to illustrate their dedication to their mission, even when faced with severe challenges.
What does being 'buffeted' mean in 1 Corinthians 4:11?
In 1 Corinthians 4:11, 'buffeted' refers to being roughly treated or physically harmed. This term underscores the adversity and mistreatment that Paul and his companions experienced while spreading their message.
How does 1 Corinthians 4:11 relate to perseverance?
1 Corinthians 4:11 relates to perseverance by showing how Paul and his companions continue their work despite facing significant hardships. Their experiences serve as a reminder that dedication and resilience are often required to achieve meaningful goals.
The Book of 1 Corinthians
1 Corinthians 1: Greeting, Thanksgiving, and Divisions
Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother, address the church of God at Corinth. He speaks to those sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be saints, along with all who call on the name of Jesus Christ. He thanks God for the grace given to them and says they are enriched in speech and knowledge, lacking no spiritual gift as they wait for the coming of the Lord.
Unlock the full 1 Corinthians summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of 1 Corinthians — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 16 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of 1 Corinthians summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.