2 Even though I may not be an apostle to others, surely I am to you! For you are the seal of my apostleship 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.
2 If to others I am not an apostle, at least I am to you, for you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord.
2 Even if no one else admits the authority of my commission, you can't deny it. Why, my work with you is living proof of my authority!
2 If I am not an apostle to others, yet doubtless I am to you. For you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord.
2 Even if others think I am not an apostle, I certainly am to you. You yourselves are proof that I am the Lord's apostle.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Corinthians 9:2
Commentary on 1 Corinthians 9:1-14
(Read 1 Corinthians 9:1-14)
It is not new for a minister to meet with unkind returns for good-will to a people, and diligent and successful services among them. To the cavils of some, the apostle answers, so as to set forth himself as an example of self-denial, for the good of others. He had a right to marry as well as other apostles, and to claim what was needful for his wife, and his children if he had any, from the churches, without labouring with his own hands to get it. Those who seek to do our souls good, should have food provided for them. But he renounced his right, rather than hinder his success by claiming it. It is the people's duty to maintain their minister. He may wave his right, as Paul did; but those transgress a precept of Christ, who deny or withhold due support.