1 Corinthians 4:3

But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man's judgment: yea, I judge not mine own self.

But {G1161} with me {G1698} it is {G2076} a very small thing {G1519}{G1646} that {G2443} I should be judged {G350} of {G5259} you {G5216}, or {G2228} of {G5259} man's {G442} judgment {G2250}: yea {G235}, I judge {G350} not {G3761} mine own self {G1683}.

And it matters very little to me how I am evaluated by you or by any human court; in fact, I don’t even evaluate myself.

I care very little, however, if I am judged by you or by any human court. In fact, I do not even judge myself.

But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man’s judgment: yea, I judge not mine own self.

Commentary

In 1 Corinthians 4:3, the Apostle Paul addresses the sensitive issue of judgment, particularly concerning his own ministry and character within the contentious Corinthian church.

Context

This verse is part of Paul's broader argument in 1 Corinthians Chapters 3 and 4, where he confronts the factions and pride prevalent among the Corinthians. They were evaluating leaders based on human wisdom and eloquence, leading to divisions (e.g., "I am of Paul; and I of Apollos"). Paul, as their spiritual father, was likely facing scrutiny and criticism regarding his methods, perceived weaknesses, or even his apostolic legitimacy. Here, he dismisses the weight of such human assessment, redirecting their focus to a higher authority.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Indifference to Human Opinion: Paul declares that being "judged of you, or of man's judgment" is a "very small thing" to him. This highlights his profound conviction that human approval or disapproval holds little sway when one's ultimate accountability is to God. His focus is on faithfulness, not popularity.
  • Rejection of Self-Judgment: The phrase "yea, I judge not mine own self" is crucial. Paul isn't claiming infallibility or ignorance of his own flaws. Instead, he recognizes the limits of self-assessment; even our own hearts can deceive us (Jeremiah 17:9). He defers ultimate judgment to the Lord, who knows all things.
  • Ultimate Divine Authority: Underlying Paul's statement is the truth that God alone is the righteous judge. His judgment is perfect and final, unlike human judgment, which is often flawed, biased, or incomplete. This theme is further explored in the subsequent verses, particularly 1 Corinthians 4:5, where Paul warns against judging "before the time."

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "man's judgment" translates the Greek anthrōpinēs hēmeras (ἀνθρωπίνης ἡμέρας), which literally means "man's day" or "human day." This unique expression contrasts with "the day of the Lord" or "the day of Christ," which refers to God's ultimate day of reckoning. By using "man's day," Paul emphasizes the temporal, limited, and often superficial nature of human evaluation, setting it against the eternal and comprehensive judgment of God.

Practical Application

For believers today, 1 Corinthians 4:3 offers powerful guidance:

  • Freedom from Approval-Seeking: It encourages us not to be excessively concerned with what others think, especially when we are striving to serve God faithfully. Our primary audience is God Himself.
  • Humility and Trust in God: While we should reflect on our actions and motives, this verse cautions against relying solely on our own self-assessment or falling into self-condemnation. We are to commit our lives and service to God, trusting Him to be the ultimate, fair Judge who knows all things, even the hidden motives of the heart (Romans 14:10).
  • Patience in Ministry: For those in ministry or service, it reminds us that true validation comes from God, not from immediate human applause or criticism. The Lord will reveal all things in His time.
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Cross-References

  • 1 Corinthians 2:15 (3 votes)

    But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.

  • John 7:24 (3 votes)

    Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment.

  • 1 Corinthians 3:13 (2 votes)

    Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.

  • 1 Samuel 16:7 (2 votes)

    But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for [the LORD seeth] not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.