At the End of the Line

For it seems to me that God has made an exhibit of us apostles, exposing us to view last [of all, like men in a triumphal procession who are] sentenced to death [and displayed at the end of the line].  For we have become a spectacle to the world [a show in the world's ampitheater] with both men and angels [as spectators].

We are [looked upon as] fools on account of Christ and for his sake, but you are [supposedly] so amazingly wise and prudent in Christ!  We are weak, but you are [so very] strong!  You are highly esteemed, but we are in disrepute and contempt!

To this hour we have gone both hungry and thirsty; we [habitually] wear but one undergarment [and shiver in the cold]; we are roughly knocked about and wander around homeless.

And we still toil unto weariness [for our living], working hard with our own hands.  When men revile us [wound us with accursed sting], we bless them.  When we are persecuted, we take it patiently and endure it.

When we are slandered and defamed, we [try to] answer softly and bring comfort.  We have been made and are now the rubbish and filth of the world [the offscouring of all things, the scum of the earth].

... So I urge and implore you, be imitators of me.

-The Apostle Paul to the Church in Corinth, 1 Corinthians 4:9-13, 16, Amplified Bible