A.T. Robertson Commentary 1 Corinthians 9:3

"My defence to them that examine me is this." — 1 Corinthians 9:3 (ASV)

My defence (η εμη απολογια). Original sense, not idea of apologizing as we say. See on Ac 22:1; 25:16. Refers to what precedes and to what follows as illustration of 8:13.

To them that examine me (τοις εμε ανακρινουσιν). See on 1 Corinthians 2:15; 4:3. The critics in Corinth were "investigating" Paul with sharp eyes to find faults. How often the pastor is under the critic's spy-glass.