2 Corinthians 12:14

KJV

Behold, the third time I am ready to come to you; and I will not be burdensome to you: for I seek not yours, but you: for the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children.

KJV (with Strong's)

Behold {G2400}, the third time {G5154} I am {G2192} ready {G2093} to come {G2064} to {G4314} you {G5209}; and {G2532} I will {G2655} not {G3756} be burdensome {G2655} to you {G5216}: for {G1063} I seek {G2212} not {G3756} yours {G5216}, but {G235} you {G5209}: for {G1063} the children {G5043} ought {G3784} not {G3756} to lay up {G2343} for the parents {G1118}, but {G235} the parents {G1118} for the children {G5043}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Look, I am ready this third time to come and visit you; and I will not be a burden to you; for it is not what you own that I want, but you! Children are not supposed to save up for their parents, but parents for their children.

Berean Standard Bible

See, I am ready to come to you a third time, and I will not be a burden, because I am not seeking your possessions, but you. For children should not have to save up for their parents, but parents for their children.

American Standard Version

Behold, this is the third time I am ready to come to you; and I will not be a burden to you: for I seek not yours, but you: for the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 2 Corinthians 12:14, the Apostle Paul declares his readiness for a third visit to the Corinthian church, emphasizing his selfless intentions. He assures them he will not be a financial burden, stating his primary desire is for their spiritual well-being, not their material possessions. This assertion is powerfully underscored by the analogy that parents, out of love and duty, provide for their children, rather than the children being expected to support their parents, thus portraying his deep, paternal care for the believers he discipled.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a highly personal and emotionally charged section of 2 Corinthians, where Paul vigorously defends his apostolic ministry and integrity against false apostles who had undermined his authority and slandered his character. Chapters 10-13 form a distinct unit, often referred to as the "Fool's Speech," where Paul reluctantly boasts about his sufferings and divine revelations to demonstrate his legitimate apostleship, contrasting it with the self-serving motives of his opponents. His declaration in 2 Corinthians 12:14 directly addresses lingering suspicions about his financial motives, which had been a point of contention throughout his relationship with the Corinthians (cf. [2 Corinthians 11:7-9](/2-corinthians/11-7-9 "Paul's Refusal of Support")). It also sets the stage for his final warnings and exhortations in chapter 13, reiterating his commitment to their spiritual health.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Greco-Roman world, including Corinth, was accustomed to various forms of patronage and philosophical schools where teachers often charged fees for their instruction. False teachers, or "super-apostles" as Paul sarcastically calls them, likely operated within this cultural framework, demanding financial support and perhaps even exploiting their followers. In contrast, Paul consistently refused payment from the Corinthians, a practice that, ironically, some used to question his legitimacy, suggesting he must not be a "true" apostle if he didn't demand support like others. Paul's stance was counter-cultural, rooted in his desire to remove any obstacle to the gospel ([1 Corinthians 9:12](/1-corinthians/9-12 "Paul's Right to Support and His Refusal")) and to demonstrate the purity of his motives, differentiating himself sharply from those who preached for profit.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several key themes central to Paul's ministry and the broader book. **Selfless Ministry** is paramount, as Paul explicitly states his desire for "you" (the people) over "yours" (their possessions), setting a high standard for spiritual leadership that prioritizes the flock's welfare over personal gain. This directly counters the mercenary motives of the false teachers. The theme of **Spiritual Parenthood** is vividly illustrated through the analogy of parents providing for children, underscoring Paul's deep, nurturing affection and responsibility for the Corinthian believers, whom he considered his spiritual offspring ([1 Corinthians 4:15](/1-corinthians/4-15 "Paul as a Spiritual Father")). Finally, **Integrity and Transparency** are evident in Paul's open declaration of his intentions, aiming to dispel any accusations of exploitation and to reinforce his consistent pattern of financial independence from the Corinthians, a practice he maintained to preserve the gospel's credibility ([2 Corinthians 11:7](/2-corinthians/11-7 "Paul's Self-Support")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **ready (Greek, _hetoímōs'_):** This adverb signifies a state of preparedness or willingness. Paul is not merely planning but is fully prepared and eager to make this third visit. It conveys a sense of determination and promptness, indicating his resolve despite the past difficulties and the accusations he faced. His readiness is not for personal gain, but for their spiritual benefit.
* **seek (Greek, _zētéō'_):** This verb means to search, to desire, or to endeavor to obtain. In this context, Paul uses it to contrast his true objective with what his detractors might assume. He is not "seeking" their material wealth or resources (`yours`), but rather their very persons, their spiritual growth, and their salvation (`you`). This highlights a profound spiritual priority over material acquisition.
* **lay up (Greek, _thēsaurízō'_):** Derived from the word for "treasure," this verb means to amass, store up, or reserve, often implying for future use or security. Paul uses this word in the context of financial provision. The natural order, he argues, is for parents to "lay up" resources for their children's future, not the other way around. This reinforces his role as a spiritual parent who gives sacrificially rather than receiving.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Behold, the third time I am ready to come to you;":** Paul announces his imminent third visit, a declaration that carries both anticipation and a subtle warning, given the unresolved issues in Corinth. The "third time" emphasizes his persistence and commitment to them, despite previous challenges and perhaps delayed plans. His "readiness" (hetoímōs) underscores his firm resolve to finally be with them.
* **"and I will not be burdensome to you:":** This clause directly addresses the ongoing financial accusations and his consistent practice of self-support. Paul reassures them that his visit will not impose any financial strain on the church. The Greek word for "burdensome" (katanarkáō) literally means to "grow utterly torpid" or "slothful," implying being expensive or a drain. Paul refuses to be a financial liability or an exploiter.
* **"for I seek not yours, but you:":** This is the heart of Paul's declaration of pure motives. He explicitly states that his desire is not for their material possessions or wealth ("yours") but for their very selves, their spiritual well-being, their faith, and their sanctification ("you"). This profound contrast highlights his selfless, pastoral love and distinguishes him sharply from those who ministered for gain.
* **"for the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children.":** Paul employs a powerful and universally understood analogy to justify his financial independence and selfless giving. It is the natural and moral duty of parents to provide for their children, to "lay up" resources for their future. Conversely, children are not expected to provide for their parents in the same way. This analogy solidifies Paul's self-perception as their spiritual father, emphasizing his role as a giver and nurturer, not a receiver or exploiter.

#### Literary Devices
Paul masterfully employs several literary devices in this verse to convey his message with clarity and impact. The most prominent is **Analogy**, specifically the **Parent-Child Analogy**. By comparing himself to a parent and the Corinthians to children, Paul invokes a universally recognized relationship of love, responsibility, and provision. This analogy powerfully justifies his refusal of financial support, as it is the natural order for parents to provide for their offspring, not the other way around. This also underscores his deep, paternal affection and commitment to their spiritual welfare. Secondly, Paul uses striking **Contrast** in the phrase "I seek not yours, but you." This sharp juxtaposition highlights his pure motives, distinguishing between material gain ("yours," referring to possessions) and spiritual well-being ("you," referring to their persons). This rhetorical device emphasizes his selfless dedication and serves to refute the accusations of mercenary motives leveled against him. The opening word "Behold" (**Idou** in Greek) serves as an **Exclamation** or **Interjection**, drawing immediate attention to the significant announcement that follows, adding emphasis and gravity to his declaration of readiness and pure intent.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Paul's declaration in 2 Corinthians 12:14 is a profound theological statement on the nature of true spiritual leadership and the selfless heart of ministry. It underscores the principle that those who minister the gospel should prioritize the spiritual good of the people over any personal or material gain. This commitment to self-sacrifice for the sake of the church reflects the very character of God, who gives abundantly and sacrificially. Paul’s analogy of parents providing for children elevates the pastoral role to one of nurturing, loving provision, mirroring God's own paternal care for His children. It challenges believers to discern leadership based on genuine love and selfless service, rather than outward appearances or material demands.

* [1 Corinthians 9:12](/1-corinthians/9-12 "Paul's Right to Support and His Refusal")
* [1 Corinthians 4:15](/1-corinthians/4-15 "Paul as a Spiritual Father")
* [Philippians 2:4](/philippians/2-4 "Philippians 2:4 - Looking Out for Others' Interests")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
2 Corinthians 12:14 offers a timeless blueprint for authentic Christian leadership and a powerful challenge for every believer. For those in positions of spiritual authority, Paul's example calls for radical selflessness, prioritizing the spiritual growth and well-being of the flock above all personal gain, comfort, or recognition. It demands a heart that genuinely seeks "you" – the people – rather than "yours" – their resources. This means being willing to sacrifice, to serve, and to give, even when it means personal hardship or foregoing legitimate rights, all for the sake of the gospel and the edification of the body of Christ. For all believers, this verse encourages discernment: to recognize and support leaders who embody this selfless spirit, and to examine our own motives in service. Are we seeking to gain, or are we seeking to give? Are we focused on what we can get from others, or how we can pour into them? This passage reminds us that true spiritual family operates on principles of sacrificial love, where the spiritually mature nurture and provide for the less mature, fostering an environment of generous giving and receiving within the body of Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Paul's statement, "I seek not yours, but you," challenge my own motives in ministry, service, or relationships?**
* **In what ways can I, like a spiritual parent, "lay up" spiritual or practical resources for others in my life or community?**
* **What are potential "burdens" (financial or otherwise) that leaders might place on their congregations, and how can we ensure our service is truly selfless?**
* **How does understanding Paul as a "spiritual parent" impact my view of discipleship and mentorship within the church?**

### 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 was multifaceted and deeply strategic. Primarily, it was to remove any potential obstacle to the gospel ([1 Corinthians 9:12](/1-corinthians/9-12 "Paul's Right to Support")). In a culture where many religious teachers and philosophers charged fees, Paul wanted to demonstrate that his ministry was not for personal profit or gain, distinguishing himself sharply from the false apostles who likely sought financial advantage. By supporting himself through his tent-making trade, he aimed to prove the purity of his motives and the authenticity of his divine calling, ensuring that the Corinthians would receive the gospel freely and without suspicion ([2 Corinthians 11:7-9](/2-corinthians/11-7-9 "Paul's Self-Support to Avoid Burden")). This selfless approach underscored his genuine love and commitment to their spiritual welfare above all else.

**What is the significance of the parent-child analogy in this verse?**

Answer: The parent-child analogy ("the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children") is profoundly significant. It highlights Paul's deep, paternal affection and responsibility for the Corinthian believers. He saw himself as their spiritual father, having brought them to faith in Christ ([1 Corinthians 4:15](/1-corinthians/4-15 "Paul as a Spiritual Father")). Just as natural parents lovingly provide for their children, often sacrificing their own resources for their offspring's future, Paul felt it was his duty to give to the Corinthians—his spiritual children—rather than to receive from them. This analogy powerfully reinforces his selfless motives, his commitment to nurturing their spiritual growth, and his rejection of any mercenary approach to ministry.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Paul's selfless commitment to the Corinthians, expressed in his desire to seek "you" rather than "yours" and his willingness to provide rather than receive, finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Jesus is the supreme example of one who "sought not His own, but us." He did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many ([Mark 10:45](/mark/10-45 "Jesus Came to Serve")). The very essence of the Incarnation is God, the ultimate Parent, "laying up" His Son for humanity, emptying Himself of divine prerogatives to become a servant, rather than demanding anything from His creation ([Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5-8 "The Humiliation of Christ")). Christ, our spiritual Father and Shepherd, gave His life on the cross, not seeking our possessions or earthly tribute, but our very selves—our hearts, our faith, and our eternal salvation ([John 3:16](/john/3-16 "God So Loved the World")). His entire ministry was characterized by giving, healing, teaching, and ultimately, sacrificing, demonstrating the perfect love that seeks the highest good of the beloved, embodying the principle that the parent provides for the child. Thus, Paul's ministry, though exemplary, merely reflects the greater, more profound self-giving love of God revealed in Jesus Christ, who truly laid up for us the treasure of eternal life.

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

Proverbs 19:14

¶ House and riches [are] the inheritance of fathers: and a prudent wife [is] from the LORD.

Genesis 24:35

And the LORD hath blessed my master greatly; and he is become great: and he hath given him flocks, and herds, and silver, and gold, and menservants, and maidservants, and camels, and asses.

Genesis 24:36

And Sarah my master's wife bare a son to my master when she was old: and unto him hath he given all that he hath.

1 Corinthians 10:33

Even as I please all [men] in all [things], not seeking mine own profit, but the [profit] of many, that they may be saved.

Genesis 31:14

And Rachel and Leah answered and said unto him, [Is there] yet any portion or inheritance for us in our father's house?

Genesis 31:15

Are we not counted of him strangers? for he hath sold us, and hath quite devoured also our money.

1 Corinthians 10:24

Let no man seek his own, but every man another's [wealth].