How does Paul's approach in 2 Corinthians 11:7 connect with Jesus' teachings on service?

◄ Paul's service in 2 Cor 11:7 & Jesus' teachings? ►

“Was it a sin for me to humble myself in order to exalt you, because I preached the gospel of God to you free of charge?”

• Paul deliberately refused financial support in Corinth (cf. 1 Corinthians 9:18; 2 Corinthians 12:13–15).

• His goal: elevate the believers, remove every obstacle, and expose the greed of the false apostles (11:13–15).

• Key verb: “humble myself” mirrors Christ’s own self-emptying (Philippians 2:5-8).

Jesus’ Blueprint for Serving

• Mark 10:45 — “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.”

• John 13:14-15 — after washing the disciples’ feet, Jesus commands, “You also should wash one another’s feet.”

• Luke 22:26-27 — “The one who is greatest among you should become like the youngest, and the leader like the servant.”

Where Paul and Jesus Meet

• Same posture: voluntary lowering of status to lift others.

• Same method: giving without charge—Jesus gives His life; Paul gives the gospel.

• Same motive: love that values people over personal rights (2 Corinthians 12:15; John 15:13).

• Same outcome: God’s glory and the growth of believers (2 Corinthians 11:31; John 17:4).

Wider Scriptural Echoes

• 2 Corinthians 8:9 — “Though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor…”

• Acts 20:33-35 — Paul works with his hands, quoting Jesus: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

• Galatians 5:13 — freedom expresses itself in “serving one another in love.”

• 1 Peter 5:2-3 — shepherds are to lead “not for sordid gain, but with eagerness,” becoming “examples to the flock.”

Putting It into Practice

• Measure greatness by willingness to stoop in love, not by position or pay.

• Guard gospel ministry from any hint of profiteering.

• Serve freely so that nothing clouds the message of Christ’s free grace.

• Let Christ’s cross and Paul’s example recalibrate motives: the more we decrease, the more others are built up and Christ is seen.