2 Corinthians 11:9

KJV

And when I was present with you, and wanted, I was chargeable to no man: for that which was lacking to me the brethren which came from Macedonia supplied: and in all [things] I have kept myself from being burdensome unto you, and [so] will I keep [myself].

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} when I was present {G3918} with {G4314} you {G5209}, and {G2532} wanted {G5302}, I was {G3756} chargeable {G2655} to no man {G3762}: for {G1063} that which was lacking {G5303} to me {G3450} the brethren {G80} which came {G2064} from {G575} Macedonia {G3109} supplied {G4322}: and {G2532} in {G1722} all {G3956} things I have kept {G5083} myself {G1683} from being burdensome {G4} unto you {G5213}, and {G2532} so will I keep {G5083} myself.

Complete Jewish Bible

And when I was with you and had needs, I did not burden anyone: my needs were met by the brothers who came from Macedonia. In nothing have I been a burden to you, nor will I be.

Berean Standard Bible

And when I was with you and in need, I was not a burden to anyone; for the brothers who came from Macedonia supplied my needs. I have refrained from being a burden to you in any way, and I will continue to do so.

American Standard Version

and when I was present with you and was in want, I was not a burden on any man; for the brethren, when they came from Macedonia, supplied the measure of my want; and in everything I kept myself from being burdensome unto you, and so will I keep myself.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 2 Corinthians 11:9, the Apostle Paul vigorously defends his apostolic integrity and selfless ministry to the Corinthian church. He recounts his deliberate choice to avoid being a financial burden upon them during his time in Corinth, even when he experienced material need. This need, he clarifies, was fully met by the generous financial support provided by the believers who traveled from the churches in Macedonia, thereby enabling him to maintain his independence and ensure the gospel's unhindered proclamation without any suspicion of mercenary motives.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within Paul's "fool's speech" (2 Corinthians 10-13), a section where he reluctantly boasts about his sufferings, weaknesses, and genuine apostolic credentials in stark contrast to the "super-apostles" who had infiltrated the Corinthian church. These false apostles likely boasted of their eloquence, spiritual power, and perhaps their ability to command financial support, implicitly or explicitly criticizing Paul for not doing the same. Paul's refusal to be financially dependent on the Corinthians, reiterated here, serves as a crucial point of distinction, demonstrating his authentic commitment to the gospel over personal gain. It builds upon earlier arguments in [1 Corinthians 9](/1_corinthians/9 "1 Corinthians 9 - Paul's Rights as an Apostle"), where he asserts his right to receive support but explains his choice to forgo it for the sake of the gospel, and specifically in [2 Corinthians 11:7-8](/2_corinthians/11-7-8 "2 Corinthians 11:7-8 - Paul's Self-Abasement for the Corinthians"), where he states he "robbed other churches" by accepting their support to serve the Corinthians freely.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the Greco-Roman world, it was common for philosophers, rhetoricians, and religious teachers to charge fees for their instruction. This practice often led to accusations of greed or charlatanism, particularly if the teacher seemed to prioritize personal gain over the integrity of their message. Paul's stance was radical; by refusing to take money from the Corinthians, he defied prevailing norms and sought to remove any potential accusation that he was a mercenary. The Macedonian churches, particularly Philippi, were known for their exceptional generosity and consistent support of Paul's ministry, as evidenced in [Philippians 4:15-16](/philippians/4-15-16 "Philippians 4:15-16 - Philippians' Generosity to Paul"). This act of inter-church support highlights the early Christian community's interconnectedness and shared mission, where some churches sacrificially supported apostles to preach in other regions.
* **Key Themes:** Paul's financial independence underscores several key themes in 2 Corinthians and his broader theology. First, it emphasizes **Apostolic Integrity and Self-Sacrifice**, demonstrating that genuine ministry prioritizes the gospel's advancement over personal comfort or gain. Paul's willingness to suffer want and rely on external support rather than burden the Corinthians showcases his commitment to serving them without reproach ([2 Corinthians 12:14](/2_corinthians/12-14 "2 Corinthians 12:14 - Paul's Desire to Not Be a Burden")). Second, it highlights the **Generosity and Partnership in the Gospel** among early Christian communities, where churches like those in Macedonia actively participated in the spread of the gospel by supporting its heralds ([Philippians 1:5](/philippians/1-5 "Philippians 1:5 - Partnership in the Gospel")). Third, Paul's actions were a strategic effort to **Remove Stumbling Blocks** to the gospel, ensuring that no accusation of financial exploitation could deter the Corinthians from embracing the truth ([1 Corinthians 9:12](/1_corinthians/9-12 "1 Corinthians 9:12 - Paul's Choice to Not Hinder the Gospel")). His consistent practice aimed to silence critics and validate the sincerity of his message.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **chargeable (Greek, _katanarkáō'_):** From G2655, meaning "to grow utterly torpid, i.e. (by implication) slothful (figuratively, expensive)." Paul uses this term to emphatically state that he did not become a financial burden or an oppressive expense to the Corinthians. The word carries a sense of numbing or weighing down, implying that his financial needs would have been a heavy, perhaps paralyzing, burden on the church if he had demanded support from them. His refusal to be "chargeable" highlights his deliberate effort to avoid placing any financial strain on the Corinthian believers.
* **supplied (Greek, _prosanaplēróō'_):** From G4322, meaning "to fill up further, i.e. furnish fully." This compound verb indicates that the Macedonian brethren not only met Paul's needs but did so completely and abundantly, filling up what was lacking. It suggests a generous and comprehensive provision, ensuring that Paul's material wants were fully satisfied, enabling him to continue his ministry without distraction or dependency on the Corinthians.
* **kept myself (Greek, _tēréō'_):** From G5083, meaning "to guard (from loss or injury, properly, by keeping the eye upon; and thus differing from φυλάσσω, which is properly to prevent escaping; and from κουστωδία, which implies a fortress or full military lines of apparatus), i.e. to note (a prophecy; figuratively, to fulfil a command); by implication, to detain (in custody; figuratively, to maintain); by extension, to withhold (for personal ends; figuratively, to keep unmarried)." Paul uses this word to emphasize his active, intentional, and consistent effort to maintain his financial independence from the Corinthians. It implies a vigilant watchfulness and a deliberate guarding of his conduct to ensure he remained "not burdensome" (G4, _abarḗs_). This was not a passive state but an active, disciplined choice.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And when I was present with you, and wanted, I was chargeable to no man:"** Paul begins by recalling his time ministering in Corinth. He acknowledges that he experienced "want" or need (G5302, _hysteréō_), indicating that his decision to not be a burden was not due to an absence of need but a deliberate choice despite it. The emphatic declaration "I was chargeable to no man" (G3762, _oudeís_) underscores his consistent practice of financial independence from the Corinthian church members.
* **"for that which was lacking to me the brethren which came from Macedonia supplied:"** This clause provides the reason (G1063, _gár_) for his ability to remain independent. His needs were met by a specific group: "the brethren which came from Macedonia" (G80, _adelphós_, G2064, _érchomai_, G3109, _Makedonía_). This highlights the inter-church support system, where churches in Macedonia (e.g., Philippi and Thessalonica) generously provided for Paul's needs, freeing him from dependency on the Corinthians. The word "supplied" (G4322, _prosanaplēróō_) indicates a full and complete provision.
* **"and in all [things] I have kept myself from being burdensome unto you, and [so] will I keep [myself]."** Paul broadens his statement, asserting that this practice of avoiding being "burdensome" (G4, _abarḗs_) was not an isolated incident but a consistent principle applied "in all things" (G3956, _pâs_, G1722, _en_). He emphasizes his active role in maintaining this standard ("I have kept myself," G5083, _tēréō_, G1683, _emautoû_) and declares his unwavering commitment to continue this practice in the future ("and so will I keep myself"). This serves as a powerful defense against any accusations of greed or exploitation, contrasting sharply with the likely practices of his opponents.

#### Literary Devices
Paul's defense in [2 Corinthians 11:9](/2_corinthians/11-9 "2 Corinthians 11:9 - Paul's Financial Independence") employs several potent literary devices. Central to his argument is **Antithesis**, where he contrasts his own selfless, non-burdensome ministry with the implied mercenary practices of the false apostles. By explicitly stating that he was "chargeable to no man" and that others "supplied" his needs, he highlights the purity of his motives against those who might have sought financial gain. This verse is also a crucial part of Paul's **Apostolic Apologia**, a sustained defense of his legitimate apostleship. He uses his financial integrity as a concrete example of his genuine commitment to the Corinthians and the gospel, a tangible proof of his spiritual authenticity. Furthermore, Paul uses **Repetition** and **Emphasis** by stating both his past and future commitment ("I have kept myself... and so will I keep myself"), underscoring the consistent and unwavering nature of his principle. His life serves as an **Exemplum**, a living illustration of the principles he preaches, demonstrating that true ministry is characterized by sacrifice and a focus on the spiritual well-being of the flock rather than personal enrichment.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Paul's insistence on financial independence from the Corinthians, enabled by the generosity of the Macedonian churches, carries profound theological implications for the nature of ministry and Christian community. It underscores the principle that the proclamation of the gospel should be free from any suspicion of self-interest, ensuring its integrity and removing potential stumbling blocks for those who hear it. While ministers have a biblical right to be supported by those they serve, Paul's example demonstrates that there are times when foregoing that right, out of love and strategic wisdom, can be a more powerful witness to the gospel's purity and the minister's genuine motives. This also highlights the interconnectedness of the body of Christ, where believers in one region sacrificially support the work of God in another, fostering a spirit of partnership and shared mission that transcends local boundaries.

* [1 Corinthians 9:18](/1_corinthians/9-18 "Paul's Reward")
* [Philippians 4:15-16](/philippians/4-15-16 "Philippian Generosity")
* [Acts 20:33-35](/acts/20-33-35 "Paul's Example of Self-Sufficiency")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's example in [2 Corinthians 11:9](/2_corinthians/11-9 "2 Corinthians 11:9 - Paul's Financial Independence") offers a powerful and challenging model for all believers, particularly those in ministry. It calls us to examine our motives, ensuring that our service to God and others is driven by selfless love and a desire for the gospel's advancement, rather than personal gain or comfort. While legitimate support for ministry is biblical, Paul's willingness to sacrifice his right to support for the sake of the gospel's integrity reminds us that flexibility and a servant's heart are paramount. For congregations, this verse highlights the privilege and responsibility of supporting those who minister the Word, enabling them to serve effectively without being a burden. It also encourages a broader vision of partnership, recognizing that our resources can bless ministries beyond our immediate community, fostering unity and expanding the reach of the gospel worldwide. Ultimately, it challenges us to prioritize the unhindered proclamation of Christ above all else, making choices that remove obstacles and commend the truth to a watching world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Paul's example challenge modern perceptions of ministry and financial support?**
* **In what ways might a desire for personal gain or comfort hinder the effectiveness of ministry today?**
* **How can individual believers and churches better embody the spirit of inter-church partnership seen in Paul's relationship with the Macedonian churches?**
* **What "stumbling blocks" might our actions or attitudes inadvertently create for others regarding the gospel, and how can we remove them?**

### FAQ
**Why was Paul so insistent on not being a financial burden to the Corinthians?**

Answer: Paul's insistence on not being a financial burden to the Corinthian church, even when in need, stemmed from several strategic and theological reasons. Firstly, he wanted to remove any potential accusation that his ministry was motivated by greed or that he was exploiting the Corinthians for personal gain, a common charge against itinerant teachers of his day. This was crucial for preserving the integrity and credibility of the gospel message ([2 Corinthians 11:7](/2_corinthians/11-7 "2 Corinthians 11:7 - Paul's Humility")). Secondly, by serving them freely, he aimed to distinguish himself sharply from the "super-apostles" who were likely charging for their services and undermining Paul's authority. His self-sacrifice served as a powerful contrast, demonstrating the purity of his motives. Finally, his goal was to ensure that nothing would hinder the spread of the gospel ([1 Corinthians 9:12](/1_corinthians/9-12 "1 Corinthians 9:12 - Paul's Choice to Not Hinder the Gospel")), and he believed that accepting support from the Corinthians might create a barrier or cause them to question his sincerity.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Paul's self-sacrificial ministry, particularly his refusal to be a financial burden on the Corinthians, finds its ultimate fulfillment and perfect example in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Just as Paul "emptied himself" of his right to support for the sake of the gospel, Christ supremely "emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Humiliation")), laying aside His divine prerogatives to become incarnate and serve humanity. Jesus, though "rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich" ([2 Corinthians 8:9](/2_corinthians/8-9 "2 Corinthians 8:9 - Christ's Poverty for Our Riches")), freely giving His life as a ransom for many without demanding anything in return. Paul's commitment to removing "stumbling blocks" and ensuring the unhindered proclamation of the gospel mirrors Christ's own mission to clear the path to God, breaking down the "middle wall of partition" ([Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Our Peace")) through His atoning sacrifice. Thus, Paul's financial independence was not merely a pragmatic choice but a living out of the gospel's core message: a selfless, costly love that gives all for the sake of others, perfectly exemplified by the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Thessalonians 2:6

Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor [yet] of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ.

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.

2 Thessalonians 3:8

Neither did we eat any man's bread for nought; but wrought with labour and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you:

2 Thessalonians 3:9

Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us.

Philippians 4:10

¶ But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again; wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity.

Philippians 4:16

For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity.

Hebrews 11:37

They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented;