What is the meaning of 2 Corinthians 12:15? And for the sake of your souls Paul’s focus is spiritual welfare, not personal gain. Everything he does revolves around the eternal good of the Corinthian believers (2 Colossians 12:19; 1 Thessalonians 2:8; 2 Corinthians 4:15). He treats their souls as priceless, mirroring the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep (John 10:11). I will most gladly His commitment is marked by joy, not resignation. Whether in hardship or ease, he embraces service with a happy heart (2 Corinthians 7:4; Philippians 2:17). This echoes the early apostles who “rejoiced that they had been considered worthy to suffer” (Acts 5:41). Spend my money and myself • “Spend my money” – Paul refuses financial support from Corinth so no one can accuse him of exploitation (2 Colossians 11:7-9; 12:14). • “And myself” – Beyond resources, he is willing to pour out his very life (2 Timothy 4:6; Acts 20:24; Mark 10:45). The double offer—wallet and life—pictures total sacrifice, paralleling Christ’s own self-giving love (Ephesians 5:2). If I love you more His affection keeps increasing despite their mixed responses (2 Corinthians 6:11-13). Like a parent who loves regardless of a child’s mood, Paul’s love isn’t conditioned on their appreciation (1 Colossians 4:14-15). Will you love me less? He gently exposes their coolness toward him. The question invites them to examine why they shrink from the very one who labors for them (Galatians 4:16). Their diminished affection reveals immaturity, not Paul’s failure. summary Paul stakes his finances, energy, and very life on the Corinthians’ eternal good. He does it gladly, confident that Christ-like love spends itself for others. Yet he longs for reciprocal affection, urging them to recognize and return genuine pastoral love. |
    |