This verse consists of three contrasts following the pattern “we-you,” “you-we.” The purpose of this arrangement is probably to emphasize the fact that the apostles, not the readers, are the main subject of this section. However, in some languages it may be better style to follow Good News Bible‘s example and make the third sentence follow the “we-you” pattern too.

For Christ’s sake may be restructured as “because we belong to Christ” or “because we believe in Christ.” The structure of the sentence suggests that there is little difference of meaning between for Christ’s sake and in Christ. Paul certainly did not mean to contrast them here.

The language of this verse has some new features. The word for wise has not been used before (see 10.15; 2 Cor 11.19). Its meaning is very similar to the term used in 1.19-20, but it is less common. Perhaps it was not used as a slogan in the disputes at Corinth. The words for in disrepute and held in honor are also new in this letter. In honor is equivalent in meaning to “become kings” in verse 8. In disrepute (Good News Bible‘s “despised”) means simply “not honored.” Revised English Bible‘s “in disgrace” is probably too strong for this context. These passive expressions may be rendered in the active voice; for example, “people honor you” and “people despise you.”

Quoted with permission from Ellingworth, Paul and Hatton, Howard A. A Handbook on Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians, 2nd edition. (UBS Handbook Series). New York: UBS, 1985/1994. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .