2 Corinthians 11:7

Have I committed an offence in abasing myself that ye might be exalted, because I have preached to you the gospel of God freely?

{G2228} Have I committed {G4160} an offence {G266} in abasing {G5013} myself {G1683} that {G2443} ye {G5210} might be exalted {G5312}, because {G3754} I have preached {G2097} to you {G5213} the gospel {G2098} of God {G2316} freely {G1432}?

Or did I sin in humbling myself so that you could be exalted, in proclaiming God’s Good News to you free of charge?

Was it a sin for me to humble myself in order to exalt you, because I preached the gospel of God to you free of charge?

Or did I commit a sin in abasing myself that ye might be exalted, because I preached to you the gospel of God for nought?

Context

In 2 Corinthians 11, the Apostle Paul is engaged in a fervent defense of his apostolic ministry against rival teachers—often called "false apostles"—who had infiltrated the Corinthian church. These individuals likely boasted of their eloquence, spiritual power, and perhaps demanded financial support from the Corinthians, while simultaneously criticizing Paul for his perceived weaknesses or lack of conventional status. Paul's refusal to accept financial support from the Corinthians, unlike other apostles or these detractors, was paradoxically interpreted by some as a sign that he was not a "true" apostle, or that his message wasn't worth paying for. Verse 7 is part of Paul's sarcastic yet profound response, where he turns their accusations on their head, highlighting the purity of his motives.

Key Themes

  • Humility and Self-Sacrifice in Ministry: Paul deliberately chose to work with his own hands (e.g., tentmaking) to avoid burdening the Corinthians financially. This was an act of profound humility and self-sacrifice, prioritizing the unimpeded spread of the gospel over his own comfort or perceived status. His "abasement" was a strategic choice for their spiritual "exaltation." This echoes his broader principle of becoming all things to all people for the sake of the gospel.
  • The Gospel's Free Nature: The core message is that the gospel of God, being a gift of divine grace, should be offered freely. Paul exemplified this by not demanding financial compensation, setting a standard for integrity in ministry. He did not want financial motives to ever overshadow the purity and accessibility of his message.
  • Apostolic Integrity and Defense: Paul highlights the stark contrast between his selfless ministry and the potentially self-serving motives of his detractors. He challenges the Corinthians to see that his seemingly "offensive" choice was actually a demonstration of true apostolic integrity. He refused to be a burden (2 Thessalonians 3:8) so that the Corinthians could receive the truth without reservation or suspicion.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "abasing myself" comes from the Greek verb tapeinoō (ταπεινόω), meaning to bring low, humble, or make humble. It underscores Paul's deliberate and conscious act of lowering his social or financial standing. Conversely, "exalted" is from hypsoō (ὑψόω), which means to lift up, elevate, or exalt. This highlights the spiritual elevation and benefit the Corinthians received precisely because of Paul's humble service.

Practical Application

This verse challenges believers and ministers today to examine their motives and methods in serving God. True leadership often involves servant leadership, where the needs and spiritual growth of others are prioritized over personal gain or recognition. It reminds us that the gift of salvation and the gospel message are priceless and freely given, echoing God's own grace. For those in ministry, it encourages a spirit of generosity and a willingness to make personal sacrifices to ensure the gospel is accessible and received without hindrance, reflecting Paul's commitment to preaching without charge.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 2 Corinthians 12:13

    For what is it wherein ye were inferior to other churches, except [it be] that I myself was not burdensome to you? forgive me this wrong.

  • 1 Thessalonians 2:9

    For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God.

  • 1 Corinthians 4:10

    We [are] fools for Christ's sake, but ye [are] wise in Christ; we [are] weak, but ye [are] strong; ye [are] honourable, but we [are] despised.

  • 1 Corinthians 4:12

    And labour, working with our own hands: being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we suffer it:

  • 2 Corinthians 10:1

    ¶ Now I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ, who in presence [am] base among you, but being absent am bold toward you:

  • 1 Corinthians 9:6

    Or I only and Barnabas, have not we power to forbear working?

  • Acts 18:1

    ¶ After these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth;

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