2 Corinthians 11:8 – “I robbed other churches by receiving support from them so as to serve you.”

Extended Explanation

In this verse, Paul uses strong language to make a point. When he says, “I robbed other churches,” he does not mean that he literally stole from them. Instead, he is using a figure of speech to emphasize that he accepted financial support from other churches so that he could minister to the Corinthians free of charge.

Paul had the right to receive financial support from the Corinthians for his work as an apostle (1 Corinthians 9:13-14), but he chose not to take money from them. Instead, he relied on the support of other churches so that the Corinthians could hear the gospel without any suspicion that he was preaching for financial gain.

By saying, “so as to serve you,” Paul makes it clear that his motivation was pure. He did not want money to be a barrier that prevented the Corinthians from accepting the gospel. He willingly sacrificed financial security for the sake of their spiritual well-being.

Historical Context

In Paul’s time, teachers, philosophers, and religious leaders often charged fees for their instruction. Many Corinthians may have expected Paul to do the same. In Greek and Roman culture, a teacher’s worth was often judged by how much people were willing to pay for their lessons.

However, Paul did not want to be seen as just another traveling speaker looking to make a profit. He knew that false teachers often exploited people for money (2 Corinthians 2:17, 2 Peter 2:1-3), and he wanted to separate himself from such deception.

Instead, Paul accepted financial help from other churches, particularly from the Macedonian churches (Philippians 4:15-16). These churches were not wealthy, yet they generously supported Paul so that he could focus on his ministry in Corinth.

Ironically, some Corinthians saw Paul’s refusal to take money as a weakness rather than a strength. In their culture, a teacher who didn’t charge might be seen as less valuable or less authoritative. This misunderstanding forced Paul to defend his actions.

Theological Implications

1. True ministry is about serving, not financial gain – Paul was not in ministry for money, and he was willing to sacrifice his financial rights to make sure that nothing hindered the gospel.
2. The church is called to support gospel workers – Other churches willingly helped Paul financially, showing that giving is an essential part of Christian ministry (Philippians 4:16, 1 Timothy 5:17-18).
3. Faithfulness to God sometimes means making personal sacrifices – Paul could have demanded financial support from the Corinthians, but he chose to rely on God’s provision from elsewhere to remove any obstacle to the gospel.

Literary Analysis

Paul’s use of the phrase “I robbed other churches” is intentional and dramatic. He does not mean literal robbery, but he uses strong language to catch the Corinthians’ attention and emphasize the sacrifice he made for them.

The structure of the verse also highlights Paul’s servant-heart:

• “I robbed other churches” – He received financial support from other believers.
• “by receiving support from them” – He acknowledges that other churches willingly gave to him.
• “so as to serve you” – His goal was not personal comfort but the Corinthians’ spiritual growth.

Paul’s tone here is both frustrated and loving. He is calling out the Corinthians for their misunderstanding while reminding them that his actions were done out of love and dedication to their faith.

Biblical Cross-References

• Philippians 4:15-16 – The Philippian church sent financial support to Paul so he could continue his ministry.
• 1 Corinthians 9:12-15 – Paul explains that, although he had the right to receive financial support, he chose not to use that right for the sake of the gospel.
• Acts 18:3 – Paul worked as a tentmaker while in Corinth to support himself.
• 2 Corinthians 12:14 – Paul emphasizes that he is not seeking financial support from the Corinthians but only their spiritual well-being.
• Matthew 10:8 – Jesus tells His disciples, “Freely you have received; freely give.” Paul followed this principle in his ministry.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse challenges modern believers to examine their motivations for ministry.

• The gospel is not a business – In a world where some exploit religion for financial gain, Paul’s example reminds us that true ministry is about serving others, not making money.
• We should be generous in supporting gospel work – Just as the Macedonian churches supported Paul, Christians today should financially support missionaries, pastors, and ministries that faithfully preach the gospel.
• Sacrifice is part of the Christian life – Paul willingly gave up financial security for the sake of the gospel. Are we willing to make sacrifices for God’s kingdom, whether it be financial, time, or comfort?

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is seen in the way He provides for His servants. Even though Paul refused money from the Corinthians, God still provided for his needs through other churches. This shows that:

• God’s work is not dependent on human resources – He moves people’s hearts to give and provides for His workers in unexpected ways.
• God calls His people to generosity – The Macedonian churches gave willingly and joyfully, showing how God’s love produces generosity in His people (2 Corinthians 8:1-4).
• God removes obstacles to salvation – Paul’s refusal to take money from the Corinthians ensured that no one could accuse him of selfish motives. This reflects God’s desire that all people come to Him without barriers (1 Timothy 2:4).

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Paul’s willingness to serve without seeking financial gain reflects the heart of Jesus Himself:

• Jesus came to serve, not to be served (Mark 10:45) – Just as Paul humbled himself for the sake of the Corinthians, Jesus humbled Himself to serve and save us.
• Jesus provided for people freely – He healed the sick, fed the hungry, and forgave sins without asking for anything in return (Matthew 14:13-21).
• Jesus left His riches to save us – Paul sacrificed financial security, but Jesus made the ultimate sacrifice by leaving the glory of heaven to suffer and die for us (2 Corinthians 8:9).
• Jesus instructed His disciples to preach without charge – In Matthew 10:8, Jesus told His disciples to give freely because they had freely received from God.

Paul’s actions mirror Jesus’ selfless love—serving others without seeking anything in return.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Why do you think Paul chose not to accept financial support from the Corinthians?
2. How does this verse challenge our view of money and ministry today?
3. In what ways can we be generous in supporting gospel work like the Macedonian churches?
4. Are there areas in your life where you feel called to sacrifice for the sake of others?
5. How does Paul’s attitude reflect Jesus’ example of servant leadership?