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What Does 1 Corinthians 13:4 Mean?
1 Corinthians 13:4
Paul tells the saints in Colosse that he prays they will possess the trait that is the opposite of wrath or revenge. He speaks of having an even temper, an attitude that in spite of injury or insult does not retaliate. We can develop longsuffering only as a fruit of the Spirit, not as an independent character trait. It grows from the common root of love and bears fruit only along with other spiritual fruit.
Martin G. Collins
Longsuffering
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
In the New Testament, the most common Greek word for self-control (temperance, KJV) is enkrateia. Its root meaning is "power over oneself" or "self-mastery." Self-control, in its widest sense, is mastery over our passions. It is the virtue that holds our appetites in check, controlling our rational will or regulating our conduct without being duly swayed by sensuous desires. Moderation is a key element in self-control.
Martin G. Collins
Self-Control
Other Forerunner Commentary entries containing 1 Corinthians 13:4:
Matthew 7:1-2
1 Corinthians 13:4
Galatians 5:22
Galatians 5:22
Galatians 5:22
Revelation 2:4-5
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Paul defines love positively with only two traits: longsuffering and kindness. Longsuffering (makrothumeo), the passive side, is self-restraint under provocation that does not retaliate—"long-tempered" rather than short-tempered. It describes God, who suffers long with us, granting time to repent. David exemplified it, enduring Saul's persecution graciously. Longsuffering is commanded, not optional, as a fruit of the Spirit, requiring us to bear with and forgive one another. Kindness, the active side, is goodness—a heart predisposed to help at the slightest hint of need. David showed kindness to Mephibosheth for Jonathan's sake. Kindness characterizes God and should characterize us; failing to show it is disobedience. Love does not envy, jealously grieving over others' blessings, nor parade itself, boast, or become puffed up with pride.