King James Version

What Does 1 Corinthians 9:3 Mean?

1 Corinthians 9:3 in the King James Version says “Mine answer to them that do examine me is this,” — study this verse from 1 Corinthians chapter 9 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“Mine answer to them that do examine me is this,”

1 Corinthians 9:3 · KJV

Context

1

Am I not an apostle? am I not free? have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord? are not ye my work in the Lord?

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.

3

Mine answer to them that do examine me is this,

4

Have we not power to eat and to drink?

5

Have we not power to lead about a sister, a wife, as well as other apostles, and as the brethren of the Lord, and Cephas? wife: or, woman

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Commentary

KJV Study 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).

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Historical & Cultural 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.

Reflection Questions

  1. Why does Paul frame his ministry explanation as a legal defense rather than simply ignoring critics?
  2. How does transparent accountability to the church honor both truth and community?
  3. When is it appropriate to defend your ministry, and when is silence more Christlike (Isa 53:7)?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 8 words
Ἡ1 of 8
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἐμὴ2 of 8

“Mine”

G1699

my

ἀπολογία3 of 8

“answer”

G627

a plea ("apology")

τοῖς4 of 8
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἐμὲ5 of 8

“me”

G1691

me

ἀνακρίνουσιν6 of 8

“to them that do examine”

G350

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

αὕτη7 of 8

“this”

G3778

the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)

ἐστίν8 of 8

“is”

G2076

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

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 1 Corinthians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

1 Corinthians 9:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 1 Corinthians 9:3 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Corinthians 13:32 Corinthians 13:102 Corinthians 10:7-8Philippians 1:7Philippians 1:172 Corinthians 13:5

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