2 Corinthians 12:15

KJV

And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} I {G1473} will very gladly {G2236} spend {G1159} and {G2532} be spent {G1550} for {G5228} you {G5590}{G5216}; though {G1499} the more abundantly {G4056} I love {G25} you {G5209}, the less {G2276} I be loved {G25}.

Complete Jewish Bible

And as for me, I will most gladly spend everything I have and be spent myself too for your sakes. If I love you more, am I to be loved less?

Berean Standard Bible

And for the sake of your souls, I will most gladly spend my money and myself. If I love you more, will you love me less?

American Standard Version

And I will most gladly spend and be spent for your souls. If I love you more abundantly, am I loved the less?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
The Apostle Paul, in 2 Corinthians 12:15, articulates the profound depth of his sacrificial commitment to the Corinthian church. He expresses an eager willingness to exhaust his resources, energy, and very self for their spiritual benefit, even as he laments the painful paradox that his abundant love for them appears to be met with diminishing affection in return. This verse powerfully encapsulates Paul's selfless pastoral heart, his unwavering dedication to the gospel's advance, and the emotional cost of unreciprocated love in ministry.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within Paul's "fool's speech" or "boasting" section (chapters 10-13), where he reluctantly defends his apostolic authority and ministry against false apostles who had infiltrated the Corinthian church. Paul's "boasting" is not in his own strength or achievements, but in his weaknesses and sufferings for Christ, as exemplified by his "thorn in the flesh" (cf. [2 Corinthians 12:7-10](/2_corinthians/12-7-10 "2 Corinthians 12:7-10 - Paul's Thorn in the Flesh")). Leading up to [2 Corinthians 12:15](/2_corinthians/12-15 "2 Corinthians 12:15 - Paul's Selfless Love"), Paul has reiterated his intention to visit Corinth for a third time, assuring them that he will not be a financial burden, unlike those who exploit them (cf. [2 Corinthians 12:14](/2_corinthians/12-14 "2 Corinthians 12:14 - Paul's Disinterest in Money")). His declaration of willingness to "spend and be spent" serves as a powerful contrast to the self-serving motives of his detractors, underscoring the purity of his intentions and his genuine, paternal affection for the Corinthians as his spiritual children.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Corinthian church, located in a bustling, cosmopolitan port city, was a melting pot of diverse cultures and philosophies. It faced numerous internal divisions and external pressures, including the influence of sophisticated rhetoricians and "super-apostles" who challenged Paul's authority, often by comparing his humble demeanor and lack of oratorical flair to their own impressive, self-aggrandizing styles. These false teachers likely demanded financial support and sought personal prestige, contrasting sharply with Paul's consistent practice of self-sufficiency (cf. [1 Corinthians 9:1-18](/1_corinthians/9-1-18 "1 Corinthians 9:1-18 - Paul's Rights as an Apostle")) and his focus on the spiritual well-being of the church over personal gain. Paul's statement in [2 Corinthians 12:15](/2_corinthians/12-15 "2 Corinthians 12:15 - Paul's Selfless Love") must be understood against this backdrop of apostolic rivalry and the Corinthians' susceptibility to those who prioritized outward appearances and material benefits.
* **Key Themes:** [2 Corinthians 12:15](/2_corinthians/12-15 "2 Corinthians 12:15 - Paul's Selfless Love") contributes to several overarching themes in 2 Corinthians. Firstly, it highlights **Sacrificial Love and Suffering in Ministry**, a recurring motif throughout the epistle, where Paul consistently portrays his ministry as one of self-giving, even to the point of personal suffering and weakness, which he paradoxically claims reveals God's power (cf. [2 Corinthians 4:7-12](/2_corinthians/4-7-12 "2 Corinthians 4:7-12 - Treasure in Jars of Clay")). Secondly, it reinforces the theme of **Apostolic Authenticity and Integrity**, as Paul's willingness to give everything without expectation of return directly contrasts with the mercenary motives of the false apostles, thereby validating his genuine call from God. Lastly, the verse touches upon the **Paradox of Christian Service**, where genuine love and dedication may not always be met with reciprocal affection or appreciation, a reality Paul grapples with throughout his relationship with the Corinthians (cf. [2 Corinthians 11:1-15](/2_corinthians/11-1-15 "2 Corinthians 11:1-15 - Paul's Defense Against False Apostles")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **spend (Greek, _dapanáō'_):** From δαπάνη, meaning to expend, incur cost, or consume. In this context, Paul uses it to signify his willingness to incur any expense, whether of time, effort, or material resources, for the benefit of the Corinthians. It speaks to the active, intentional giving of oneself.
* **be spent (Greek, _ekdapanáō'_):** From ἐκ and δαπανάω, meaning to expend wholly or to exhaust. The prefix _ek-_ intensifies the verb, indicating a complete and utter consumption or wearing out. Paul is not merely willing to give, but to be completely used up, to the point of exhaustion, for their spiritual growth and well-being. This signifies the totality of his self-sacrifice.
* **love (Greek, _agapáō'_):** Perhaps from a word meaning "much," or related to a Hebrew word meaning "to love." This term denotes a selfless, benevolent, and unconditional love, distinct from mere affection or passion. Paul's use of _agapáō_ here emphasizes the divine, self-giving nature of his affection and commitment to the Corinthians, mirroring God's own love for humanity.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you":** Paul emphatically declares his enthusiastic and complete devotion to the Corinthians. The phrase "very gladly" (Greek: _hḗdista_) underscores his joyful willingness to endure hardship and sacrifice. "Spend" (dapanáō) refers to giving his resources, and "be spent" (ekdapanáō) signifies being utterly consumed or worn out in the process. This expresses a total, unreserved commitment of his life, energy, and even physical being for their spiritual welfare, akin to a parent pouring out everything for their children.
* **"though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved."**: This clause introduces a poignant paradox and expresses Paul's deep emotional pain. Despite his overwhelming, superabundant (Greek: _perissotérōs_) love for the Corinthians, he perceives a disproportionate lack of reciprocal affection or appreciation from them. This highlights the often-unrequited nature of selfless service and the emotional toll it can take on those who pour themselves out for others, especially when faced with suspicion, criticism, or indifference. It reveals the vulnerability of a true pastoral heart.

#### Literary Devices
Paul masterfully employs several literary devices in this verse. The most prominent is **Paradox**, evident in the stark contrast between his abundant love and their diminishing reciprocation ("though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved"). This highlights the often-painful reality of ministry and relationships where self-giving is not always met with equal return. The phrase "spend and be spent" is a form of **Merism**, where two contrasting or complementary parts are used to express a totality – in this case, the entirety of Paul's commitment, from active giving to passive exhaustion. There is also an element of **Hyperbole** in "very gladly spend and be spent," emphasizing the extreme degree of his willingness to sacrifice, underscoring the depth of his devotion. Finally, the entire verse functions as a powerful **Antithesis** to the self-serving motives of the false apostles, positioning Paul as a true servant leader whose integrity is rooted in selfless love.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Paul's declaration in [2 Corinthians 12:15](/2_corinthians/12-15 "2 Corinthians 12:15 - Paul's Selfless Love") stands as a profound theological statement on the nature of Christian love, service, and leadership. It embodies the essence of _agape_ love – a self-sacrificial, unconditional love that gives without expecting anything in return, mirroring the very heart of God. This love is not sentimental but active, costly, and enduring, even in the face of ingratitude or misunderstanding. The paradox of loving more and being loved less reveals the reality that true service in God's kingdom often involves suffering and unrequited effort, yet it remains the pathway to authentic discipleship and faithful ministry. Paul's willingness to be "spent" for the Corinthians reflects a cruciform pattern of life, where one's life is poured out for the benefit of others, trusting that ultimate reward and validation come from God, not human affirmation.

* [John 15:13](/john/15-13 "John 15:13 - Greater Love")
* [Philippians 2:17](/philippians/2-17 "Philippians 2:17 - Paul Poured Out")
* [Galatians 6:9](/galatians/6-9 "Galatians 6:9 - Not Growing Weary")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[2 Corinthians 12:15](/2_corinthians/12-15 "2 Corinthians 12:15 - Paul's Selfless Love") offers a challenging yet deeply inspiring model for every believer and especially for those in leadership. It calls us to examine the depth and purity of our own love and commitment within the body of Christ and in our broader relationships. Are we willing to give not just our surplus, but our very selves – our time, energy, resources, and even our emotional well-being – for the spiritual flourishing of others, without demanding immediate reciprocity or recognition? Paul's experience reminds us that genuine love often involves vulnerability and the potential for pain when our efforts are unappreciated or misunderstood. Yet, this verse encourages perseverance in such selfless service, trusting that our ultimate reward is from God. It also prompts us to cultivate a spirit of appreciation and reciprocal love for those who pour themselves out for us, recognizing the immense cost of such dedication.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you called to "spend and be spent" for others, even if it's costly or unappreciated?**
* **How do you respond when your love or efforts are not reciprocated, as Paul experienced? What spiritual practices help you persevere?**
* **How can we, as individuals and as a church community, better appreciate and affirm those who selflessly serve among us?**

### FAQ
**What does Paul mean by "spend and be spent"?**

Answer: By "spend" (Greek: _dapanáō_), Paul refers to the active giving of his resources, time, and energy. By "be spent" (Greek: _ekdapanáō_), he means to be utterly consumed, exhausted, or worn out. The prefix _ek-_ intensifies the verb, indicating a complete and total self-sacrifice. Together, the phrase signifies Paul's willingness to give everything he has and everything he is, to the point of complete depletion, for the spiritual benefit and growth of the Corinthian believers. It's a powerful expression of his selfless, unconditional love and dedication to their well-being, prioritizing their spiritual flourishing above his own comfort or gain, a theme he reiterates throughout [2 Corinthians](/2_corinthians "The Book of 2 Corinthians").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Paul's declaration in [2 Corinthians 12:15](/2_corinthians/12-15 "2 Corinthians 12:15 - Paul's Selfless Love") finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While Paul willingly spent and was spent for his spiritual children, Christ, the Son of God, truly "spent" His divine prerogatives and "was spent" on the cross for all humanity. He "emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant" (cf. [Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Humiliation")), pouring out His very life as a ransom for many (cf. [Mark 10:45](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")). The paradox of Paul's unrequited love also echoes Christ's experience: though He came to His own, His own did not receive Him (cf. [John 1:11](/john/1-11 "John 1:11 - Christ Rejected")), and He was "despised and rejected by mankind" (cf. [Isaiah 53:3](/isaiah/53-3 "Isaiah 53:3 - The Suffering Servant")). Yet, it was precisely in this ultimate act of self-giving, even unto death, that God's boundless love for a fallen world was most profoundly demonstrated (cf. [Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God's Love Demonstrated")). Thus, Paul's commitment to "spend and be spent" is not merely a human ideal but a Christ-like pattern, reflecting the sacrificial love of the Lamb of God who laid down His life that others might have eternal life (cf. [John 10:11](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - The Good Shepherd")).

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 2:8

So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.

Philippians 2:17

Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all.

2 Corinthians 1:6

And whether we be afflicted, [it is] for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: or whether we be comforted, [it is] for your consolation and salvation.

Colossians 1:24

Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake, which is the church:

2 Corinthians 2:3

And I wrote this same unto you, lest, when I came, I should have sorrow from them of whom I ought to rejoice; having confidence in you all, that my joy is [the joy] of you all.

2 Timothy 2:10

Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.

Hebrews 13:17

Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that [is] unprofitable for you.