Strong’s Greek 3386 (μήτιγε, mētige) is an emphatic interrogative particle that sharpens a question so that a negative response is virtually assumed. By combining μή (the standard negative) with the enclitic γε (“at least,” “indeed”), the particle creates the sense, “Surely not…!” or “How much less…!” In Scripture it appears only once, but that single usage supplies a rich window into apostolic reasoning and pastoral care.

Rhetorical Function in Koine Greek

In classical and koine literature μήτι is used to frame a question that anticipates “No” as the answer. The added γε intensifies that nuance, making the negative presupposition unmistakable. When Paul employs the particle he is not genuinely unsure about the response; he is guiding the listeners to see that the alternative is unthinkable. Thus μήτιγε turns a question into a form of admonition: it both instructs and corrects.

Canonical Occurrence: 1 Corinthians 6:3

“Do you not know that we will judge angels? How much more the things of this life!” (Berean Standard Bible)

The clause “How much more the things of this life!” contains the particle μήτιγε. Paul has just reminded the Corinthians that believers will participate with Christ in judging angels. By appending μήτιγε, he presses an inescapable conclusion: if future judgment over celestial beings is assured, it is inconceivable that the church cannot handle matters related to everyday life.

Historical Context of Corinthian Litigation

Corinthian culture prized status, eloquence, and litigious prowess. Civil courts were public spectacles that magnified personal honor but rarely produced true justice. Some believers, reverting to the city’s customs, were hauling one another before pagan tribunals. Paul rebukes the practice not only because it damages testimony but also because it contradicts the believers’ eschatological destiny. μήτιγε functions as a cultural shockwave, exposing the chasm between worldly patterns and the calling of the saints.

Theological Implications

1. Eschatological Authority of the Saints

- Daniel 7:22 foresees the saints possessing the kingdom; Revelation 20:4–6 shows them reigning with Christ. μήτιγε secures the logical bridge from future reign to present responsibility.

2. Judgment and Discernment

- The particle underscores that judging righteously is not optional but intrinsic to redeemed identity (John 7:24; Hebrews 5:14).

3. Angelology in Christian Thought

- By connecting human believers to the judgment of angels, Paul affirms both the elevated calling of the church and the subordinate place of finite spiritual beings (Hebrews 1:14).

Pastoral and Ministry Applications

• Church Discipline and Mediation

The rhetorical force of μήτιγε empowers congregations to address conflicts internally through Spirit-led discernment rather than secular litigation.
• Discipleship and Identity Formation

Teaching on Strong’s 3386 helps believers grasp their future role and cultivate present maturity. A congregation that knows it will one day judge angels will approach everyday disagreements with gravity, humility, and hope.
• Apologetic Witness

A community that settles disputes in love demonstrates the gospel’s transformative power to an observing world (John 13:34-35).

Related Biblical Themes

– “How much more” reasoning: Matthew 7:11; Romans 5:9-10.

– Saints sharing Christ’s reign: 2 Timothy 2:12; Revelation 5:10.

– Proper judging within the church: Matthew 18:15-17; Galatians 6:1.

Summary

Strong’s Greek 3386, μήτιγε, though occurring only once, provides a finely honed rhetorical blade in Paul’s argument. By implying, “Surely you can handle lesser matters,” it binds together the believer’s future authority with present ethical practice. Understanding this particle enriches exegesis of 1 Corinthians 6 and equips the church to live in light of her coming reign with Christ—displaying wisdom, unity, and holiness before a watching world.