What does 2 Corinthians 11:7 mean?

Explanation

2 Corinthians 11:7 addresses an issue that the Apostle Paul is contending with in the Corinthian church.

He's raising a rhetorical question to confront accusations or suspicions that his free preaching was somehow indicative of his message's worthlessness, or that he was somehow lesser among the apostles because he did not demand financial support.

Paul asks whether it was a sin for him to lower himself, referring to his refusal to be a financial burden, so that the Corinthians could be "exalted," or spiritually uplifted through the message of the Gospel, which he preached without charge.

This verse reflects Paul's commitment to spreading the Gospel without allowing money to be a barrier between him and the recipients of the message.

Historical Context

During the first century, teachers and philosophers were often supported by their patrons or communities.

It was common for religious leaders, including itinerant preachers, to receive compensation for their teaching.

Some of the other apostles, like Peter, were indeed supported by the churches they ministered to.

In the case of Paul, however, he chose a different approach for the Corinthian church.

He continued his trade as a tentmaker to provide for himself while ministering in Corinth.

His refusal to accept financial support from the Corinthians seems to have raised questions about his apostolic authority and the value of his work.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, Paul's argument is not simply about financial matters but about the nature of his ministry and the Gospel itself.

Some key viewpoints include:

• Grace and Free Gift: Paul emphasizes that like grace, the Gospel is freely given, and he models this by freely offering the Gospel without any obligation for compensation.
• Apostolic Authority: Paul defends his apostolic authority by demonstrating his commitment and sacrifice for the Gospel's sake, in contrast to false apostles who may be exploiting the Corinthians for financial gains.
• Servanthood Approach: Paul views his ministry as servanthood, following the example of Christ, who, according to Philippians 2:6-8, "made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant."

Practical Applications

In the modern context, Paul's ethos can apply in various ways:

• Generosity: Believers can be challenged to give selflessly in the service of others, without expecting remuneration.
• Sincerity in Ministry: Those in ministry could reflect on their motivations, emphasizing the importance of serving for the sake of the Gospel, rather than for financial or personal gain.
• Valuing the Gospel: By Paul’s example, Christians are reminded that the value of the Gospel is not determined by the cost to receive it, but by the immeasurable worth of its message.

Cross-References

• 1 Corinthians 9:18 - "What is my reward then? Verily that, when I preach the gospel, I may make the gospel of Christ without charge, that I abuse not my power in the gospel."
• Acts 18:3 - "And because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they were tentmakers."
• Matthew 10:8 - "Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give."

Language Study

In the original Greek text of 2 Corinthians 11:7, key words include:

• "abasing myself" (ταπεινώσας ἐμαυτόν): which is a term for humbling or lowering oneself, used literally and figuratively in New Testament Greek.
• "exalted" (ὑμᾶς): This term can refer to elevating in status or position; here, it is likely a spiritual exaltation or upliftment.
• "freely" (δωρεάν): This term signifies 'as a gift' or 'without cost,' capturing the idea that Paul did not impose a financial burden for his preaching.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparatively, ancient religious leaders from various traditions often had diverse approaches to material compensation. For example, some philosophic and religious traditions idealized the teacher who does not charge for his lessons, seeing the transmission of wisdom as above monetary value.

In contrast, others operated on a patronage model where teachers and philosophers were supported to provide their services, similar to how some apostles received support.

Scientific Perspectives

While there is no direct scientific perspective on Paul’s act of preaching without charge, one could discuss the psychological and social implications of a gift economy, wherein goods and services are given without an explicit agreement for a quid pro quo.

Studies in sociology and anthropology have explored the social bonds and community cohesion effects driven by generosity and acts of giving.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars provide varied interpretations:

• John Gill remarks that Paul brought the Corinthians into an "exalted" state by his Gospel preaching, from a worldly view to a spiritual and heavenly one.

He emphasizes that Paul did not act powerfully upon them, nor take from them temporal advantages.

• Matthew Henry comments on Paul's method of preaching the gospel freely as not an act that invalidated his ministry, but rather exalted the Corinthians, an act of condescension and love.
• The Pulpit Commentary notes that Paul’s reference to abasing himself refers to his renunciation of the right to be maintained by the churches he served, highlighting his financial independence as making him an ideal witness to the truth.