1 Corinthians 4:3

Authorized King James Version

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.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ἐμοὶ

G1698

with me

to me

δὲ

G1161

But

but, and, etc

εἰς

G1519

a very small thing

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

ἐλάχιστόν

G1646

used as equivalent to g3398; least (in size, amount, dignity, etc.)

ἐστιν

G2076

it is

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

ἵνα

G2443

that

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

ὑπὸ

G5259

under, i.e., (with the genitive case) of place (beneath), or with verbs (the agency or means, through); (with the accusative case) of place (whither (

ὑμῶν

G5216

you

of (from or concerning) you

ἀνακρίνω

G350

I judge

properly, to scrutinize, i.e., (by implication) investigate, interrogate, determine

#10

ἢ

G2228

disjunctive, or; comparative, than

#11

ὑπὸ

G5259

under, i.e., (with the genitive case) of place (beneath), or with verbs (the agency or means, through); (with the accusative case) of place (whither (

#12

ἀνθρωπίνης

G442

man's

human

#13

ἡμέρας·

G2250

judgment

day, i.e., (literally) the time space between dawn and dark, or the whole 24 hours (but several days were usually reckoned by the jews as inclusive of

#14

ἀλλ'

G235

yea

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

#15

οὐδὲ

G3761

not

not however, i.e., neither, nor, not even

#16

ἐμαυτὸν

G1683

mine own self

of myself so likewise the dative case ?????? <pronunciation strongs="em-ow-to'"/>, and accusative case ??????? <pronunciation strongs="em-ow-ton'"/>

#17

ἀνακρίνω

G350

I judge

properly, to scrutinize, i.e., (by implication) investigate, interrogate, determine

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 1 Corinthians.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?

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