2 Corinthians 12:17

KJV

Did I make a gain of you by any of them whom I sent unto you?

KJV (with Strong's)

Did I make a gain {G4122}{G3361} of you {G5209} by {G1223} any {G5100} of them {G846} whom {G3739} I sent {G649} unto {G4314} you {G5209}?

Complete Jewish Bible

Was it perhaps through someone I sent you

Berean Standard Bible

Did I exploit you by anyone I sent you?

American Standard Version

Did I take advantage of you by any one of them whom I have sent unto you?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 2 Corinthians 12:17, the Apostle Paul issues a direct, rhetorical challenge to his Corinthian audience, emphatically denying any accusation that he or his emissaries exploited them for financial gain. This verse serves as a powerful defense of his apostolic integrity and a testament to his consistent practice of self-support, reinforcing his commitment to minister without being a burden, thereby distinguishing his genuine motives from those of false apostles seeking personal enrichment.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within Paul's "fool's speech" (2 Corinthians 10-13), a section where he reluctantly defends his apostolic authority and ministry against severe criticisms from opposing teachers in Corinth. Having previously recounted his visions and "thorn in the flesh" to underscore his reliance on God's strength in weakness ([2 Corinthians 12:1-10](/2_corinthians/12-1-10 "Paul's Vision and Thorn in the Flesh")), Paul pivots to address persistent accusations regarding his financial practices. He reiterates his consistent refusal to accept financial support from the Corinthians, a stance that paradoxically became a point of contention for his detractors ([2 Corinthians 12:13](/2_corinthians/12-13 "Paul's Refusal of Financial Support")). Paul has already stated his intention to visit them a third time and his unwavering commitment to not burden them financially, emphasizing his desire for their spiritual well-being rather than their material possessions ([2 Corinthians 12:14-16](/2_corinthians/12-14-16 "Paul's Third Visit and Financial Policy")). Verse 17, therefore, acts as a direct, rhetorical question, challenging the Corinthians to provide any evidence that he, or those he sent (like Titus, mentioned in [2 Corinthians 12:18](/2_corinthians/12-18 "Paul's Defense of Titus")), ever took advantage of them. It is part of his broader argument for the authenticity of his ministry, contrasting it with the exploitative practices of the "super-apostles" ([2 Corinthians 11:5](/2_corinthians/11-5 "Paul's Confrontation with Super-Apostles")).

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Corinthian church was a complex community, influenced by various philosophical and rhetorical traditions prevalent in the Greco-Roman world. Itinerant teachers and rhetoricians were common, often charging fees for their instruction, and their perceived status was often tied to their ability to command such payments. Paul's refusal to accept financial support from the Corinthians was counter-cultural and, for some, a sign of weakness or an admission that he was not a "true" apostle, as genuine apostles, they believed, would have the right to be supported. False apostles or "super-apostles" (as Paul sarcastically calls them) had infiltrated the church, likely boasting of their eloquence, spiritual experiences, and perhaps, their ability to extract funds from the Corinthians. These individuals accused Paul of being weak in person, strong in letters, and possibly manipulative or deceitful in his financial dealings, perhaps suggesting that while he didn't take money directly, his associates might have done so on his behalf. Paul's defense, therefore, is not merely personal but addresses a fundamental misunderstanding of true apostolic ministry in a culture where financial gain was often intertwined with perceived authority and success.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in 2 Corinthians. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **apostolic integrity and authenticity**. Paul's rhetorical question is a bold assertion of his blameless conduct, particularly in financial matters, which was a crucial test of genuine ministry in the eyes of many. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **self-sacrifice and selfless service**. Paul consistently models a ministry driven by love for Christ and the church, not by personal gain, contrasting sharply with those who minister for dishonest profit. This aligns with his broader teaching on suffering for the gospel and relying on God's grace ([2 Corinthians 12:9-10](/2_corinthians/12-9-10 "Paul's Experience of God's Grace in Weakness")). Thirdly, the verse touches upon the theme of **discernment in leadership**. By challenging the Corinthians to examine his and his associates' conduct, Paul implicitly teaches them how to distinguish true spiritual leaders from charlatans who exploit their followers. This emphasis on observable character and financial transparency serves as a vital criterion for evaluating ministry, a principle echoed throughout the New Testament regarding church leadership ([1 Timothy 3](/1_timothy/3 "Qualifications for Overseers and Deacons")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **gain (Greek, _pleonektéō'_):** (G4122) From _pleonektēs_, meaning "to be covetous," this verb implies "to over-reach," "to get an advantage," "to defraud," or "to make a gain." Paul's use of this word directly addresses the accusation that he or his representatives had acted with covetousness or had taken advantage of the Corinthians financially. He is asserting that they did not engage in any form of unethical, exploitative, or greedy financial practice.
* **by (Greek, _diá'_):** (G1223) A primary preposition denoting the "channel of an act," meaning "through" (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional). In this context, it refers to the means or instrument through which the alleged "gain" would have been made. Paul is asking if any of the individuals he sent served as a conduit for him to exploit the Corinthians, thereby implicating himself in their actions.
* **sent (Greek, _apostéllō'_):** (G649) From _apo_ and _stellō_, meaning "to set apart" or "to send out (properly, on a mission) literally or figuratively." This word emphasizes the official nature of the individuals Paul dispatched to Corinth. By asking if he made a gain "by any of them whom I sent," Paul is asserting his confidence in the integrity of his entire team, implying that his representatives faithfully carried out his mission without deviation into personal enrichment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Did I make a gain of you":** This is the core of Paul's rhetorical question. The verb "make a gain" (from _pleonektéō_) carries the strong connotation of exploitation, taking advantage, or defrauding. Paul is directly challenging the accusation that he personally profited from the Corinthians in an illicit or unethical manner. His use of the past tense indicates a challenge to their past experience with him.
* **"by any of them":** This phrase, using the preposition _diá_ ("through" or "by means of"), extends the challenge beyond Paul himself to include his associates and emissaries. It addresses the potential insinuation that while Paul might have maintained an appearance of integrity, he could have used others as a front to secretly extract funds. This demonstrates Paul's confidence not only in his own conduct but also in the integrity of those he commissioned.
* **"whom I sent unto you?":** This final clause specifies the group in question: those individuals who were officially dispatched by Paul to the Corinthian church. This includes figures like Titus ([2 Corinthians 12:18](/2_corinthians/12-18 "Paul's Sending of Titus")), who had recently visited them. By including his representatives, Paul underscores the consistent ethical standard applied to his entire ministry team, leaving no room for accusations of indirect or proxy exploitation.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs a powerful **Rhetorical Question** in this verse, expecting a resounding "no" as an answer. This device serves not as an inquiry for information, but as a forceful assertion of his innocence and integrity. By posing it as a question, Paul invites the Corinthians to reflect on their own experience and knowledge, thereby compelling them to acknowledge the truth of his blameless conduct. This also functions as a form of **Apostolic Apologia**, a defense of his ministry, where he systematically dismantles the accusations leveled against him by his opponents. The directness of the question, coupled with the implied challenge to find evidence, also carries an element of **Irony**, as Paul's accusers had likely insinuated such exploitation, yet he confidently calls them to account, knowing they will find no proof.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Paul's unwavering commitment to financial integrity and his refusal to exploit the Corinthian church are deeply rooted in biblical principles concerning the conduct of God's servants. His ministry exemplifies a selfless dedication that prioritizes the spiritual well-being of the flock over personal gain, echoing the very heart of Christ's servanthood. This passage serves as a timeless reminder that true ministry is characterized by genuine love and a desire to give, not to take. It stands in stark contrast to false teachers who often use religion as a cloak for greed, reminding believers that the character and motives of leaders, especially in financial matters, are crucial indicators of their authenticity. This commitment to transparency and blamelessness protects the gospel's reputation and fosters trust within the community of faith.

* [1 Peter 5:2](/1_peter/5-2 "Shepherd the flock willingly") - "Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;"
* [Acts 20:33-35](/acts/20-33-35 "Paul's Self-Sufficiency in Ministry") - "I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel. Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me. I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive."
* [1 Timothy 3:3](/1_timothy/3-3 "Qualifications for Overseers") - "Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous;"

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's confident challenge in 2 Corinthians 12:17 provides a powerful model for integrity in all spheres of life, particularly for those in leadership, whether spiritual, professional, or familial. It compels us to examine our own motives and practices, asking whether our actions truly reflect a selfless commitment to others or if there's any hint of personal gain at their expense. For leaders, it underscores the critical importance of financial transparency and accountability, ensuring that our conduct is above reproach and that we avoid even the appearance of impropriety. For congregants, it serves as a guide for discerning true servants of God, encouraging us to observe the fruit of their lives, especially their financial dealings and their attitude towards material possessions. Ultimately, this verse calls every believer to live with a clear conscience, prioritizing the welfare of others and the glory of God over any personal advantage, trusting that a life lived with integrity is its own powerful defense against false accusations.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be tempted to "make a gain" at the expense of others, whether financially, relationally, or emotionally?**
* **How does Paul's example of financial integrity challenge my own approach to resources, generosity, and personal gain?**
* **As a leader (in any capacity), what steps can I take to ensure complete transparency and avoid even the appearance of impropriety, especially in financial matters?**
* **As a follower, how can I better discern the true motives of those who lead or influence me, applying the principles of integrity and selflessness?**

### FAQ

**Why was Paul so concerned about financial gain, especially if apostles had a right to support?**

Answer: Paul was deeply concerned about financial gain because it was a common accusation leveled against religious teachers in his day, and it could easily discredit the gospel message. While Paul explicitly states in [1 Corinthians 9:1-14](/1_corinthians/9-1-14 "Paul's Rights as an Apostle") that apostles *do* have the right to receive financial support from those they minister to, he often chose not to exercise this right in certain contexts, particularly in Corinth. He did this for several reasons: to remove any potential stumbling block for new believers, to distinguish himself from false teachers who *were* motivated by greed, and to demonstrate the purity of his motives and the authenticity of his ministry. By refusing support, he underscored that his service was out of love for Christ and the Corinthians, not for personal enrichment, thereby safeguarding the integrity of the gospel message itself.

**Who were "them whom I sent unto you," and why were they included in Paul's defense?**

Answer: The primary individual Paul had recently sent to Corinth was Titus, who is explicitly mentioned in the very next verse ([2 Corinthians 12:18](/2_corinthians/12-18 "Paul's Defense of Titus")). Other associates like Timothy or Erastus may also have been involved in various missions to Corinth. Paul included them in his defense because accusations against him often extended to his entire team, implying that if he wasn't directly exploiting the Corinthians, perhaps his representatives were doing so on his behalf or for their own gain. By challenging the Corinthians to find fault with *any* of those he sent, Paul demonstrated his complete confidence in the integrity of his entire ministry and his associates, showing that his ethical standards were consistently applied throughout his apostolic mission.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Paul's fervent defense against accusations of financial exploitation, and his consistent demonstration of self-sacrifice, ultimately points to the supreme example of Christ. 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 "Christ's Example of Generosity")). 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' Purpose: To Serve and Give His Life")). Christ's ministry was never about personal gain or earthly advantage; rather, it was characterized by radical self-emptying and complete devotion to the Father's will and the salvation of humanity. He consistently rebuked those who sought honor or profit from religion, modeling a leadership that was entirely focused on giving, even to the point of death on the cross ([Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5-8 "Christ's Humility and Obedience")). Paul's refusal to "make a gain" of the Corinthians, and his willingness to suffer hardship for the gospel, mirrors the selfless, non-exploitative nature of Christ's own mission, offering a profound Christ-centered pattern for all who would serve in His name.

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

2 Kings 5:20

¶ But Gehazi, the servant of Elisha the man of God, said, Behold, my master hath spared Naaman this Syrian, in not receiving at his hands that which he brought: but, [as] the LORD liveth, I will run after him, and take somewhat of him.

2 Kings 5:27

The leprosy therefore of Naaman shall cleave unto thee, and unto thy seed for ever. And he went out from his presence a leper [as white] as snow.

2 Kings 5:16

But he said, [As] the LORD liveth, before whom I stand, I will receive none. And he urged him to take [it]; but he refused.

2 Corinthians 9:5

Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and make up beforehand your bounty, whereof ye had notice before, that the same might be ready, as [a matter of] bounty, and not as [of] covetousness.

2 Corinthians 12:18

I desired Titus, and with [him] I sent a brother. Did Titus make a gain of you? walked we not in the same spirit? [walked we] not in the same steps?

1 Corinthians 16:10

¶ Now if Timotheus come, see that he may be with you without fear: for he worketh the work of the Lord, as I also [do].

1 Corinthians 4:17

¶ For this cause have I sent unto you Timotheus, who is my beloved son, and faithful in the Lord, who shall bring you into remembrance of my ways which be in Christ, as I teach every where in every church.