1 Corinthians 4:9

An Understandable Version (2005 edition)

For I think that God has displayed us apostles last in line, as men doomed to die. [Note: The picture here is that of gladiators in the arena]. We are being stared at [i.e., as performers on a theater stage] for the whole world to see, both angels and people.

Cross References

Hebrews 10:33

Sometimes you were subjected to public ridicule and abuse, and at other times you shared [vicariously] with those people who were treated that way.

Romans 8:36

Just as it is written [Psa. 44:22], “We are [in danger of being] killed all the time. We were considered as sheep to be slaughtered.”

Hebrews 1:14

Are not all angels ministering spirits sent out [by God] to serve those people who will inherit salvation?

Hebrews 11:36

And [still] others experienced mocking and floggings, and were even chained up and put in prison.

1 Thessalonians 3:3

so that no one would be shaken by [having to experience] these difficult times. [See 2:14]. For you yourselves know that we are destined to have such experiences.

2 Corinthians 6:9

as [both] unknown [to people] and yet well-known; [we have almost] died, and yet as you see, we are still alive; [we have been] punished and yet not killed;

Acts 19:31

Some of his friends, who were officers in the province of Asia, sent word urging him not to take a chance by entering the amphitheater.

Acts 19:29

The city became full of confusion; they grabbed Gaius and Aristarchus, Paul’s Macedonian traveling companions, and everyone together rushed into the amphitheater.

1 Corinthians 15:19

If we have placed our hope in Christ while in this life only, we are to be pitied more than all [other] people.

2 Corinthians 11:23

Are they servants of Christ? (I am really talking like a crazy person now). I am more [of a servant, than they are]. I have worked much harder. I have been in prison more often. I have been flogged more severely. I have been in danger of death more frequently.