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2 Corinthians 12:11-13
As the Apostle Paul has come through his exaggerated fit in proclaiming himself worthy of God in that the congregation of the church should not have questioned his preaching and teaching them, he also looks back at the ridiculousness of what he has just done and makes note of how foolish he has been, but only because it was required to show the Corinthians of how the false apostle had been tricking them into a false religious belief (2 Corinthians 12:11-12). In hindsight of how foolish he has been in this representation, Paul then refers to himself as nothing even though he has declared the false apostles to be behind him (2 Corinthians 12:11, NKJV). He then admits that he has given the church at Corinth special attention in that he did not charge them for his service to them as a minister and preacher of the gospel. He asks their forgiveness for this wrong as it was only done so to separate himself from the false apostles who were charging them – he simply was trying to let them see that his preaching was genuine.
This is an example of the lengths one will go to show the importance of the gospel; that everyone would see that it is a genuine message sent from God to all the world – in Christ Jesus.
There are many false teachers today who simply desire to be nothing more than con artists in taking advantage of sincerely good-hearted people by taking their money. The Apostle Paul has explained the importance of giving in 2 Corinthians 8-9 and is in reference to the giving of a tithe by Abraham to the High Priest Melchizedek in Genesis 14:18-20. This is also reflective of God’s command to Moses in Numbers 18. We should continue to support our priests and pastors today, but be aware of one who commands you to give more than you are able – in Christ.
Dear LORD,
We have learned of how the Apostle Paul went to great lengths to show his sincerity in preaching the gospel, even as to not charge the church at Corinth to be an example to them of his faithfulness to You over that of the false teachers of the day. Please help us to use discernment in our giving, that it would be received in proper proportion to reach the needs of the Church – in Christ. In Jesus name I pray, amen.