1 Corinthians 9:2
If I be not an apostle unto others, yet doubtless I am to you: for the seal of mine apostleship are ye in the Lord.
Original Language Analysis
ἀπόστολος
an apostle
G652
ἀπόστολος
an apostle
Strong's:
G652
Word #:
5 of 19
a delegate; specially, an ambassador of the gospel; officially a commissioner of christ ("apostle") (with miraculous powers)
ἀλλά
yet
G235
ἀλλά
yet
Strong's:
G235
Word #:
6 of 19
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
ἡ
G3588
ἡ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
10 of 19
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
γὰρ
for
G1063
γὰρ
for
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
11 of 19
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
σφραγὶς
the seal
G4973
σφραγὶς
the seal
Strong's:
G4973
Word #:
12 of 19
a signet (as fencing in or protecting from misappropriation); by implication, the stamp impressed (as a mark of privacy, or genuineness), literally or
τῆς
G3588
τῆς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
13 of 19
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
2 Corinthians 12:12Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds.John 6:27Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed.
Historical Context
In the ancient world, a seal authenticated documents, contracts, and ownership. Roman officials carried signet rings to authorize decrees. Paul uses this commercial metaphor theologically: just as a seal proves a document's authenticity, the Corinthian church—born through Paul's preaching—proves God sent him. This was especially important given ancient concerns about fraudulent teachers and false prophets.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the existence of genuine converts validate gospel ministry?
- What is the relationship between apostolic preaching and the church's foundation (Eph 2:20)?
- Can you reject spiritual authority without undermining your own faith's foundations?
Analysis & Commentary
If I be not an apostle unto others, yet doubtless I am to you: for the seal of mine apostleship are ye in the Lord. Even if outsiders reject Paul's credentials, the Corinthians cannot—they owe their very existence as a church to his ministry. The Greek sphragis (σφραγίς, "seal") denotes authentication, like a signet ring pressed into wax. Their conversion, spiritual gifts, and continued faith are irrefutable proof that God commissioned Paul as an apostle.
Paul's logic is devastating: to deny his apostleship is to deny their own legitimacy as believers. If Paul is not a true apostle, then his gospel is false, and they are not truly "in the Lord." This is not arrogance but theological necessity. Apostolic ministry mediates the gospel that creates the church. The Corinthians cannot reject Paul's authority without sawing off the branch they sit on.