Commentaries:
<< 1 Corinthians 13:3 1 Corinthians 13:5 >>
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-ControlOther Forerunner Commentary entries containing 1 Corinthians 13:4:
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1 Corinthians 13:4
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Galatians 5:22
Galatians 5:22
Revelation 2:4-5
<< 1 Corinthians 13:3 1 Corinthians 13:5 >>
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What Does 1 Corinthians 13:4 Mean?
Paul defines love positively with only two characteristics: longsuffering and kindness. Longsuffering, from the Greek makrothumeo, is self-restraint under provocation that does not retaliate or promptly punish; it means being "long-tempered" rather than short-tempered, having patience with people. God is described as longsuffering, giving us time to repent. David exemplified this, enduring Saul's persecution while doing good. Longsuffering is not optional but a fruit of the Spirit, growing only alongside other spiritual fruit. Kindness is love's active side, a heart predisposed to do good with only a hint of need, exemplified by David's care for Mephibosheth. Envy is absent, rejoicing in others' blessings. Love does not parade itself, boast, or become puffed up with pride, which breeds sin and destruction.