1 Corinthians 9:3
Mine answer to them that do examine me is this,
Original Language Analysis
Ἡ
G3588
Ἡ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
1 of 8
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τοῖς
G3588
τοῖς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 8
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἀνακρίνουσιν
to them that do examine
G350
ἀνακρίνουσιν
to them that do examine
Strong's:
G350
Word #:
6 of 8
properly, to scrutinize, i.e., (by implication) investigate, interrogate, determine
Historical Context
Greek apologia was a technical term for courtroom defense speeches. Socrates delivered his famous Apology before Athenian judges. Corinth, as a Roman colony with Greek culture, was steeped in rhetorical and legal traditions. Paul's audience would immediately recognize forensic rhetoric—statement of facts, proof, refutation—standard in Greco-Roman legal proceedings.
Questions for Reflection
- Why does Paul frame his ministry explanation as a legal defense rather than simply ignoring critics?
- How does transparent accountability to the church honor both truth and community?
- When is it appropriate to defend your ministry, and when is silence more Christlike (Isa 53:7)?
Analysis & Commentary
Mine answer to them that do examine me is this,—Paul introduces his formal apologia (ἀπολογία, "defense") to those who anakrino (ἀνακρίνω, "examine, interrogate") him. This legal term denotes judicial inquiry or cross-examination. Paul is not insecure or defensive; he is providing a reasoned case for his apostolic conduct, particularly his refusal to accept payment.
The terseness of this verse creates dramatic tension. Paul pauses after announcing his defense, then pivots (v. 4) to a series of questions about apostolic rights. The structure mirrors a courtroom: accusation, defense, evidence. But Paul's ultimate goal is not self-justification—it is to model sacrificial ministry that surrenders rights for gospel advance (v. 12, 18-23). This transitions chapter 8's theology (surrender freedom for the weak) into lived practice (Paul surrenders support for the lost).