I Corinthians 9:2
A plain-spoken deep dive on this verse. Read the chapter →
Even if I am not an apostle to others, surely I am to you. For you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord.
Commentaries
Excerpts gathered from published commentaries to ground the reading.
yet doubtless--yet at least I am such to you. seal of mine apostleship--Your conversion by my preaching, accompanied with miracles ("the signs of an apostle," Rom 15:18-19; Co2 12:12), and your gifts conferred by me (Co1 1:7), vouch for the reality of my apostleship, just as a seal set to a document attests its genuineness (Joh 3:33; Rom 4:11).
Open source ↗In this chapter the apostle seems to answer some cavils against himself. I. He asserts his apostolical mission and authority, and gives in his success among them as a testimony to it (Co1 9:1, Co1 9:2). II. He claims a right to subsist by his ministry, and defends it by several arguments from natural reason and the Mosaical law, and asserts it also to be a constitution of Christ (Co1 9:3-14). III. He shows that he had willingly waived this privilege and power for their benefit (Co1 9:15-18). IV. He specifies several other things, in which he had denied himself for the sake of other men's spiritual interest and salvation (Co1 9:19-23). And, V. Concludes his argument by showing what animated him to this course, even the prospect of an incorruptible crown (Co1 9:24 to the end.)
Open source ↗Original language
The Hebrew and Greek words behind this passage, with Strong's numbers — from openscriptures (CC BY-SA).
Cross-references
Other passages the community most often connects to this one. Tap to read.
The true marks of an apostle—signs, wonders, and miracles—were performed among you with great perseverance.
Do not work for food that perishes, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For on Him God the Father has placed His seal of approval.”