1 Corinthians 9:3

¶ Mine answer to them that do examine me is this,

Mine {G1699} answer {G627} to them that do examine {G350} me {G1691} is {G2076} this {G3778},

That is my defense when people put me under examination.

This is my defense to those who scrutinize me:

My defence to them that examine me is this.

Commentary

1 Corinthians 9:3 serves as a pivotal transition in Paul’s letter, introducing his direct response to those who questioned his apostolic authority and practices. The Apostle Paul, having just asserted his legitimate claim to apostleship in 1 Corinthians 9:1-2, now prepares to articulate his defense to his critics within the Corinthian church.

Context of 1 Corinthians 9:3

This verse immediately follows Paul's strong declaration that the Corinthians themselves are the "seal of mine apostleship" (1 Corinthians 9:2), meaning their conversion and spiritual growth under his ministry validated his divine calling. Despite this, some individuals or factions in Corinth were scrutinizing his motives, his methods, or his right to receive financial support. Paul’s statement, "Mine answer to them that do examine me is this," indicates his readiness to address these specific criticisms head-on, setting the stage for the detailed arguments that follow in the rest of chapter 9 regarding the rights and responsibilities of an apostle.

Key Themes

  • Apostolic Defense: The verse initiates Paul's robust defense of his ministry and his legitimate status as an apostle of Jesus Christ. He is not merely explaining but actively countering accusations.
  • Accountability and Transparency: Paul is willing to submit to examination and provide clear reasons for his actions, demonstrating a commitment to transparency in his leadership. This highlights a principle of accountability within Christian service.
  • Setting the Record Straight: Paul’s intent is to dispel misunderstandings and affirm the integrity of his work, which was always for the sake of the Gospel and the spiritual welfare of the believers.

Linguistic Insight

The Greek word translated "examine" is anakrinō (ἀνακρίνω). It implies a thorough investigation, scrutiny, or judgment. It's not just a casual inquiry but a critical assessment, often used in legal or judicial contexts. Paul is essentially saying, "To those who are judging or putting me on trial, here is my defense." This suggests the seriousness of the accusations he was facing and his resolve to address them comprehensively.

Practical Application

For believers today, 1 Corinthians 9:3 offers several insights:

  • Facing Scrutiny: Those in ministry or leadership positions may face questioning or criticism. Paul's example teaches us to respond with clarity, integrity, and a focus on the truth, rather than reacting defensively or emotionally.
  • Defending Your Calling: While we don't need to justify ourselves to everyone, there are times when it's necessary to articulate the basis of our beliefs, actions, or calling, especially when misrepresentation or doubt arises.
  • Understanding Context: Just as Paul provided context for his actions, we are reminded of the importance of understanding the full picture before drawing conclusions or making judgments about others' service.

Paul's subsequent arguments in 1 Corinthians 9:4 onwards elaborate on the specific rights he had (like financial support) and why he chose not to exercise them, all for the greater good of the Gospel.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Corinthians 14:37 (2 votes)

    If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord.

  • 2 Corinthians 10:7 (2 votes)

    ¶ Do ye look on things after the outward appearance? If any man trust to himself that he is Christ's, let him of himself think this again, that, as he [is] Christ's, even so [are] we Christ's.

  • 2 Corinthians 10:8 (2 votes)

    For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed:

  • 2 Corinthians 13:10 (2 votes)

    Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being present I should use sharpness, according to the power which the Lord hath given me to edification, and not to destruction.

  • 2 Corinthians 13:3 (2 votes)

    Since ye seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, which to you-ward is not weak, but is mighty in you.

  • 2 Corinthians 13:5 (2 votes)

    Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?

  • Philippians 1:7 (2 votes)

    ¶ Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace.