Giving Generously Without Expecting Return
In Paul’s day, Grecian culture held that a teacher’s reputation was often measured by the size of his speaking fee. The greater the charge, the greater the status. So when Paul refused to take payment for preaching in Corinth, critics mocked him as unworthy. But his humility was actually proof of his love.
Paul didn’t preach to profit — he preached to serve. He supported himself through tentmaking and the other churches in the region also supplied for him, so that no one in Corinth could accuse him of using the gospel for gain. “Did I sin,” he asks, “in humbling myself so that you might be exalted?” (2 Cor 11:7). His life embodied this truth: True servants of Christ don’t serve for what they can get; they serve for what they can give.
The false apostles in Corinth were the opposite — spiritual opportunists who enslaved, exploited, and exalted themselves. Paul says they “devour” people and “take advantage” of them (v. 20). Their ministry looked impressive, but it was empty of love.
A modern example might be the difference between a celebrity preacher who builds a brand and a quiet missionary couple who pour out their lives in an obscure region. No crowds. No book deals. Just faithfulness. They may never trend online, but heaven takes note!
That’s the heart of Jesus, “who, though He was rich, yet for our sake became poor.” (2 Cor 8:9)
For leaders: use authority to build others up, not yourself.
For members: give and serve from gratitude, not guilt.
For all believers: remember, generosity is the currency of grace.
True ministry isn’t measured by applause or platform, but by sacrifice and sincerity.
It’s not about profit — it’s about pouring out.