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Book of 1 Corinthians - Chapter 4 - Verse 3

4:3
But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man's judgment: yea, I judge not mine own self.

Meaning

In this verse, the Apostle Paul is expressing his indifference to the opinions and judgments of others. He states that he does not place a high value on receiving approval or criticism from other people, even from those who may consider themselves to be important or influential. Paul asserts that the opinions of others do not hold much weight in his own assessment of himself. He goes on to say that he does not even rely on his own judgments to determine his worth or actions. This verse highlights Paul's commitment to living according to his own convictions and principles, rather than seeking validation or approval from external sources. By emphasizing the insignificance of human judgment, Paul encourages readers to prioritize authenticity and self-awareness in their own lives, rather than being swayed by the expectations or criticisms of others.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the apostle Paul is addressing the Corinthians and expressing his detachment from their judgment of him. He emphasizes that the opinion of man holds little significance in comparison to God's judgment. The phrase "I judge not mine own self" highlights Paul's humility and acknowledgment that only God can truly judge his actions and intentions. This theological interpretation highlights the importance of seeking God's approval above all else and reminds believers not to place too much weight on human evaluation. The word study of "judged" in this context can point to the idea of scrutiny, assessment, or condemnation. By delving into the original Greek meaning of the word, we can gain a deeper understanding of the apostle's message to the Corinthians about the nature of judgment and the importance of relying on God's assessment of one's life and actions.

American Standard Version

But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man's judgment: yea, I judge not mine own self.
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