But be it so, I did not burden you: nevertheless, being crafty, I caught you with guile.
Read it in contextCare for the Corinthians
Start reading at 2 Corinthians 12:11 (2 Corinthians 12:11 to 2 Corinthians 12:18).
An editorial reading unit, not a claim that the surrounding context stops here. Book background below applies to the shared passage; individual verses may need more specific explanation.
Paul defends the sincerity of his and Titus' conduct and explains that he seeks the people themselves rather than their possessions.
12:11I am become a fool in glorying; ye have compelled me: for I ought to have been commended of you: for in nothing am I behind the very chiefest apostles, though I be nothing.
12:12Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds.
12:13For what is it wherein ye were inferior to other churches, except it be that I myself was not burdensome to you? forgive me this wrong.
12:14Behold, the third time I am ready to come to you; and I will not be burdensome to you: for I seek not yours, but you: for the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children.
12:15And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved.
12:16But be it so, I did not burden you: nevertheless, being crafty, I caught you with guile.
12:17Did I make a gain of you by any of them whom I sent unto you?
12:18I 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?
Study content, not yet reviewed.
Who
Who wrote the book? Paul the apostle is the principal author; Timothy is named with him in the greeting. Biblical references: 2 Corinthians 1:1. stated in the text
Who was present or being addressed in this passage? In the surrounding chapter context (2 Corinthians 10:1–13:14): Paul answers challenges to his ministry among the Corinthians and warns the church before his next visit. stated in the text
Who was the book written to? The church of God at Corinth and all the saints throughout Achaia. Biblical references: 2 Corinthians 1:1. stated in the text
What
What is the topic of this reading unit? Care for the Corinthians. Read 2 Corinthians 12:11 through 2 Corinthians 12:18 as a connected unit. interpretation
How does it contribute to the book? Paul defends the sincerity of his and Titus' conduct and explains that he seeks the people themselves rather than their possessions. interpretation
When
When are the events or message set? The letter reflects earlier exchanges, changed travel plans, and a collection in progress. A precise date requires reconstruction beyond a dated statement in the letter. book background
Where
What is the book’s geographic setting? Corinth and the saints in Achaia are addressed; Macedonia and other ministry locations appear in the account. book background
Where does the context start?
This passage sits in Care for the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 12:11 to 2 Corinthians 12:18).
Start reading at 2 Corinthians 12:11. An editorial reading unit, not a claim that the surrounding context stops here. Book background below applies to the shared passage; individual verses may need more specific explanation.
How
How does this book connect with Jesus Christ? Paul explains ministry through the death and life of Jesus, reconciliation in Christ, and power displayed in weakness. These themes do not make suffering proof that every minister's claim is valid. See 2 Corinthians 4:5, 2 Corinthians 4:10, 2 Corinthians 5:19, 2 Corinthians 12:9. interpretation
How should this book guide our response? Practice integrity, generosity, and openness to correction. Assess ministry by faithfulness to Christ rather than outward impressiveness alone. interpretation
Cross references from CrossReferences-org (CC BY 4.0).
Macro-Structure
See how this passage fits the chapter and the book.
2 Corinthians 12
Prefilled outline, not yet reviewed.
Paul and Timothy address the church of God at Corinth and the saints in Achaia. The letter explains Paul's ministry and suffering, appeals for reconciliation and generosity, and confronts challenges to his apostolic service.
Connection to the wholePaul refuses to rest his standing on extraordinary revelation and describes the Lord's answer concerning weakness and sufficient grace.
Connection to the wholePaul defends the sincerity of his and Titus' conduct and explains that he seeks the people themselves rather than their possessions.
Connection to the wholeThe defense ends with anxiety over unresolved sin, preparing the warnings and examination of the final chapter.
interpretation
Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.
2 Corinthians
Prefilled outline, not yet reviewed.
Paul and Timothy address the church of God at Corinth and the saints in Achaia. The letter explains Paul's ministry and suffering, appeals for reconciliation and generosity, and confronts challenges to his apostolic service.
Connection to the wholePaul describes comfort in affliction and explains his dealings with Corinth, including forgiveness and his concern over the church's response.
Connection to the wholePaul explains the character of his ministry and appeals to the Corinthians, ending with relief over their response to his correction.
Connection to the wholeThe example of other believers and of Christ supports an appeal for willing, responsible giving that supplies need and results in thanksgiving.
Connection to the wholePaul answers his opponents, explains strength in weakness, and prepares the church for a visit marked by accountability and restoration.
interpretation
Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.