1 Corinthians 9:3
What does 1 Corinthians 9:3 mean?
A plain-English look at 1 Corinthians 9:3 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What 1 Corinthians 9:3 means
Paul announces that what follows is his formal answer to critics who “examine” him—those who cross‑question his credentials and motives. He is not defensive in a petty sense; rather, he offers a reasoned explanation for his ministry practices. This verse signals a measured, transparent accounting of why he acts as he does. He means to show that his choices are not weakness or inconsistency but deliberate obedience to Christ and love for the churches. His defense will affirm his legitimate rights as an apostle and then explain why he has voluntarily declined to use certain rights so that the message of Christ will advance unhindered.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000My defence to them that examine me is this.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Mine answer to them that do examine me is this,
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901My defence to them that examine me is this.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949My answer to those who are judging me is this.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862My defence to those who examine me in this;
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752My defence with them that do examine me is this.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890My defence to those who examine me is this:
Context
Having reminded the Corinthians of his apostolic standing, Paul transitions to the substance of his argument. Verse 3 functions like a heading that introduces the case he will make in verses 4–18. He will first assert clear rights of gospel workers (food, support, marriage), then demonstrate these rights from common life, the law of Moses, temple practice, and the Lord’s command. Only after establishing the rights firmly will he explain his choice not to exercise them in Corinth.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Acts 25:16
To whom I answered, that it is not the custom of the Romans to give up any man, before that the accused have the accusers face to face, and have had opportunity to make his defence concerning the matter laid against him.
- 2 Timothy 4:16
At my first defence no one took my part, but all forsook me: may it not be laid to their account.
- 1 Corinthians 14:37
If any man thinketh himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him take knowledge of the things which I write unto you, that they are the commandment of the Lord.
- Acts 22:1
Brethren and fathers, hear ye the defence which I now make unto you.
- 2 Corinthians 13:3
seeing that ye seek a proof of Christ that speaketh in me; who to you-ward is not weak, but is powerful in you:
- 2 Corinthians 13:10
For this cause I write these things while absent, that I may not when present deal sharply, according to the authority which the Lord gave me for building up, and not for casting down.
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