Knowing The Word in 2 Corinthians 11:7-11, Paul's Humility

7 Or did I commit a sin in humbling myself so that you might be exalted, because I preached God's gospel to you free of charge? 8 I robbed other churches by accepting support from them in order to serve you. 9 And when I was with you and was in need, I did not burden anyone, for the brothers who came from Macedonia supplied my need. So I refrained and will refrain from burdening you in any way. 10 As the truth of Christ is in me, this boasting of mine will not be silenced in the regions of Achaia. 11 And why? Because I do not love you? God knows I do!

People were complaining of Paul’s servant approach to ministry. He did not charge them. He says tongue-in-cheek that he “robbed other churches,” meaning he came to them because of the financial support other churches gave him. He did not come as the super-apostles did to make money, but to share the gospel with them free of charge. When he ran short of money in Corinth, he let the Macedonians help him out financially, probably so he would be indebted to no one in Corinth.

Lord Jesus, our Savior, let us now come to thee:

Our hearts are cold; Lord, warm them with thy selfless love.

Our hearts are sinful; cleanse them with thy precious blood.

Our hearts are weak; strengthen them with thy joyous Spirit.

Our hearts are empty; fill them with thy divine presence.

Lord Jesus, our hearts are thine; possess them always and only for thyself.

Augustine, 354-430