2 Corinthians 11:11

Context

In 2 Corinthians 11, the Apostle Paul is engaged in a passionate and often sarcastic defense of his apostolic ministry against rival teachers, whom he refers to as "false apostles" or "super-apostles" (2 Corinthians 11:13). These individuals were likely undermining Paul's authority and teaching in the Corinthian church, often by contrasting their own methods and perceived superiority with Paul's humble approach.

One specific point of contention was Paul's refusal to accept financial support from the Corinthians, unlike these other preachers who demanded payment. Paul had consistently supported himself, often through tentmaking (Acts 18:3), so as not to burden the church or give anyone a reason to accuse him of preaching for profit (2 Corinthians 11:7). This verse, "Wherefore? because I love you not? God knoweth," directly addresses a potential misinterpretation of his actions. Paul rhetorically asks if his refusal of support implies a lack of love for them, immediately refuting it by appealing to God as the witness of his true affection.

Key Themes

• Paul's Sincere Love for the Corinthians: The primary message here is Paul's deep and genuine affection for the believers in Corinth. His actions, though perhaps unconventional in their eyes, were motivated by love, not by indifference or disdain.
• Integrity and Motive in Ministry: Paul consistently emphasizes the purity of his motives. His self-support was a deliberate choice to demonstrate the gospel's freeness and to avoid any accusation of greed, upholding the integrity of his ministry. This contrasts sharply with those who preached for personal gain.
• God as Witness: Paul appeals to God's omniscience ("God knoweth") as the ultimate arbiter of his heart and motives. This highlights his reliance on divine approval over human judgment and underscores the truthfulness of his claim.
• Sacrificial Service: Paul's willingness to forgo his apostolic right to financial support (1 Corinthians 9:14) was an act of sacrifice, intended to benefit the Corinthians and prevent any hindrance to the gospel message.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "God knoweth" (Greek: Theos oiden) is a powerful affirmation. The Greek verb oiden (οἶδεν) implies a deep, intuitive, and certain knowledge, not merely a factual awareness. It conveys Paul's absolute confidence that God fully understood the sincerity of his love and the purity of his intentions, even when people might misunderstand or accuse him falsely.

Practical Application

• Examine Your Motives: This verse challenges believers to reflect on the true motivations behind their actions, especially in service to others or in ministry. Are they driven by genuine love, or by other less noble intentions?
• Avoid Rash Judgments: We are reminded not to quickly judge others' actions, particularly when their motives are not immediately clear. What appears one way on the surface might be rooted in deep love or sacrifice.
• Trust God with Your Heart: When misunderstood or falsely accused, we can find comfort and vindication in the fact that God knows our hearts and true intentions, just as Paul appealed to Him.
• Love Requires Sacrifice: Paul's example demonstrates that true love often involves sacrifice and a willingness to put others' needs before one's own comfort or rights.