In what ways does this verse connect to Jesus' teachings on giving? Setting the Scene 2 Corinthians 12:14: “See, I am ready to come to you for the third time, and I will not be a burden to you, because I do not want your possessions, but you. For children should not have to save up for their parents, but parents for their children.” Paul speaks as a spiritual father who intends to give, not take. His words echo the giving ethos that Jesus modeled and taught. Paul’s Heart Mirrors Christ’s Heart • Jesus: “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:45) • Paul: “I will not be a burden to you… parents for their children.” – Both refuse to exploit others. – Both assume the role of self-sacrificing caregiver. Key Parallels with Jesus’ Words on Giving • Freely give what you have received – Jesus: “Freely you have received; freely give.” (Matthew 10:8) – Paul refuses financial support so the Corinthians receive the gospel without cost. • Serve rather than seek to be served – Jesus: “Whoever wants to become great among you shall be your servant.” (Matthew 20:26) – Paul places himself in the servant role, supporting himself as a tentmaker (Acts 18:3). • Store treasures in heaven, not on earth – Jesus: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” (Matthew 6:19-20) – Paul values people over possessions: “I do not want your possessions, but you.” • Give with parental compassion – Jesus compares the Father’s generosity to earthly parents: “How much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!” (Matthew 7:11) – Paul applies the same family logic: “Parents [store up] for their children,” modeling father-like provision. • Blessedness of giving – Jesus (quoted by Paul): “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” (Acts 20:35) – Paul embodies that blessing, choosing the giver’s role. • Secret, burden-free generosity – Jesus: “But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.” (Matthew 6:3) – Paul’s refusal of funds keeps his giving discreet and keeps the Corinthians free of obligation. Practical Takeaways for Today • Prioritize people over possessions in every act of giving. • Adopt a servant mindset; look for ways to lift burdens rather than add to them. • Give quietly, trusting the Father to reward what is done in secret. • View ministry as parental care—investing resources so that spiritual children thrive. • Remember that the greatest treasure is eternal, not material; generosity now lays up riches in heaven. |
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