1 Corinthians 13:4

The scene behind the verse

Corinth, Greece, ~55 AD. After tearing down false love, Paul now builds up what real love looks like...

Original language

makrothumei (μακροθυμεῖ) — long-suffering, extending the fuse before anger

Historical context

Greek culture celebrated quick wit and sharp retorts; Paul's patience was countercultural

What most readers miss

Each quality Paul lists was the opposite of what the Corinthians were doing to each other

Common misconception

People memorize this for weddings thinking it's romantic advice, but Paul wrote it to a church whose members were suing each other and treating each other terribly.

How this verse has been applied

Tonight, identify the person who tests your patience most. Tomorrow, give them one extra chance before you react.