How does 2 Corinthians 12:16 demonstrate Paul's approach to spreading the Gospel? The Verse in Focus “Be that as it may, I was not a burden to you. But crafty as I am, I caught you by deceit.” (2 Corinthians 12:16) Setting the Scene • Paul writes to believers who have questioned his motives. • Earlier he reminded them he never charged for his ministry (12:13-15). • Critics twisted his self-sacrifice into an accusation: “He must be hiding something.” • Paul responds with irony—admitting to “craftiness” only in the sense that love found a way to reach them without taking their money. Paul’s Selfless Strategy • Refused financial support from Corinth to remove any hint of exploitation. – 2 Corinthians 11:9 “I was not a burden to anyone…” – 1 Thessalonians 2:9 “We worked night and day in order not to be a burden…” – Acts 18:3 Paul supported himself as a tentmaker. • Demonstrated that the Gospel is a free gift. • Let nothing hinder people from hearing truth (cf. 1 Corinthians 9:12). Holy Cunning—Shrewd Yet Innocent • Paul echoes Jesus’ call to be “as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16). • His “craftiness” was not deceitful manipulation; he openly rejected secret or shameful tactics (2 Corinthians 4:2). • He adapted methods—never message—to win people (1 Corinthians 9:19-23). • Genuine love sometimes looks like strategic creativity: removing obstacles, anticipating objections, meeting practical needs first. The Motive Behind the Method • Love, not money or acclaim. – 2 Corinthians 12:14 “I do not seek your possessions, but you.” • Spiritual fatherhood: willing to spend and be spent (12:15). • Desire that believers grow, not merely be impressed. Key Takeaways for Gospel Work Today • Remove avoidable barriers—financial, cultural, relational—that might eclipse the message. • Employ sanctified creativity while staying completely truthful. • Let personal sacrifice validate words; credibility is strengthened when motives are pure. • Keep love for people central; the goal is their salvation and maturity, never personal gain. |
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