Strong’s Greek 3469 expresses the idea of receiving blame or reproach. In the New Testament it appears only in 2 Corinthians, where Paul is intent on protecting the gospel, his apostolic reputation, and the credibility of Christian ministry from any charge of impropriety.

Occurrences in the New Testament

• 2 Corinthians 6:3 – “We put no obstacle in anyone’s way, so that no one can discredit our ministry.”
• 2 Corinthians 8:20 – “We hope to avoid any criticism of the way we administer this generous gift.”

Both uses are middle-subjunctive forms that look to the future: Paul and his companions are determined to act so that no one “discredits” (μωμηθῇ / μωμήσηται) their service.

Background in Greco-Roman Usage

In secular Greek writings the verb was employed for finding fault in legal or political accusations and for disparaging rhetorical opponents. Paul adapts the term to describe a moral critique that can undermine gospel witness. By using vocabulary familiar in civic life, he communicates to the Corinthians that the church must meet a standard even the surrounding culture recognizes.

Historical Setting in 2 Corinthians

1. 2 Corinthians 6:3 stands at the head of a catalog of apostolic hardships (6:4-10). Paul insists that, though afflicted, he removes every hindrance that might lead observers to charge his ministry with hypocrisy.
2. 2 Corinthians 8:20 refers to the famine‐relief collection for Jerusalem. Paul employs multiple delegates, written commendations, and open accounting so that no one can suspect mishandling of funds.

Theological Significance

• Integrity Protects the Gospel: Paul sees the reputation of ministers and the message they preach as inseparable. Unfounded blame can still cloud the gospel in the eyes of outsiders (compare 1 Corinthians 9:12; Philippians 2:15).
• Holiness without Blemish: The term stands opposite the idea of being “without spot or wrinkle” (Ephesians 5:27). A life free of actionable reproach reflects God’s own blameless character.
• Corporate Testimony: Because believers together constitute “a letter… known and read by everyone” (2 Corinthians 3:2-3), avoiding discredit becomes a communal responsibility, not merely an individual concern.

Old Testament Parallels

The Septuagint often uses cognate vocabulary for the physical “blemish” that disqualifies a sacrificial animal (e.g., Leviticus 22:21). Paul extends the principle from ceremonial purity to ethical purity: an unblemished life honors the once-for-all sacrifice of Christ (Hebrews 10:10).

Ministry Application

1. Transparency with Finances: Paul’s precautions in chapter 8 model modern practices such as plural oversight, written reports, and external audits.
2. Avoiding Needless Offense: Freedom must be tempered by love so that personal behavior does not become an occasion for blame (Romans 14:13-19).
3. Proactive Reputation Management: Elders are to be “above reproach” (1 Timothy 3:2), anticipating potential scandals and removing stumbling blocks before they appear.
4. Endurance in Hardship: Paul’s list of sufferings in 2 Corinthians 6 shows that integrity is maintained not by favorable circumstances but by steadfast character empowered by the Spirit.

Christological Fulfillment

Jesus Himself asked, “Which of you can convict Me of sin?” (John 8:46), embodying the ideal of a life free from blame. Believers, united with Christ, pursue the same blamelessness, knowing that ultimate vindication rests in God’s final judgment (1 Corinthians 4:5).

Pastoral Counsel

• When accusations arise, respond with humility, transparency, and verifiable facts (Acts 24:12-16).
• Cultivate accountability structures before crises occur.
• Teach congregations that impeccable conduct is not legalism but loving stewardship of Christ’s reputation before the watching world.

Summary

Strong’s Greek 3469 highlights the vital biblical theme of avoiding reproach so that ministry and message remain unimpaired. Paul’s deliberate safeguards in speech, conduct, and financial stewardship offer a timeless template for churches that seek to uphold the honor of Christ and the credibility of the gospel.