1 Corinthians 9:3

Mine answer to them that do examine me is this (KJV)

Then: Straight declarative sentence is a flag to listeners. But more than that, the NKJV and Wright translate the word "answer" as "defense." That supports Henry's belief that Paul took the Corinthians unrest personally. It sets readers up to notice emotional (love) shadings in the coming statements.

Now: Anyone questioned or challenged has some sort of emotional reaction to being challenged about the quality of their work. Studying Paul here can help let reason and love for the listeners supercede all self concerns.

Extra source: Commentary on the Whole Bible Acts to Revelation Vol VI by Matthew Henry online at http://www.ccel.org/ccel/henry/mhc6.iCor.x.html