2 Corinthians 12:16
But be it so: I did not burthen you: neuerthelesse beeing craftie, I caught you with guile. 2 Corinthians 12:16 (KJV)
To gain a better understanding of this verse, it’s helpful to examine the context of the passage. In the preceding verses, Paul is addressing concerns that the Corinthians had about him. He asserts that he did not burden them financially or take advantage of them, even though he had the authority as an apostle to do so. He emphasizes that he does not want to be a financial burden on them and expresses anxiety that, even while insisting he will not be a burden, he might inadvertently become one out of love for them. Paul often worked to support himself in ministry, not relying solely on the contributions of the church. His primary aim in this passage is to assure the Corinthians that his motives are sincere and that he seeks to avoid imposing undue hardship on them.
Now, let’s break down the verse: ‘But be it so, I did not burden you’: Paul starts by acknowledging the Corinthians’ concerns about being a financial burden on them. He wants to emphasize that he did not exploit them or take advantage of their generosity. ‘Nevertheless, being crafty’: Here, Paul acknowledges a certain craftiness or cunning in his approach. This refers to strategic wisdom in his ministry methods, adapting his approach depending on the circumstances and the people he was dealing with. ‘I caught you with guile’: The phrase ‘caught you with guile’ is complex; in the KJV, ‘guile’ denotes deception or trickery. Some Bible scholars interpret this as Paul using irony or sarcasm, suggesting that despite his efforts to avoid being a burden, his teachings and influence still won them over.
“It is lest I should be burdensome, treading into your grace; but I fear lest, while I say I shall not be a burden to you, I may be so, from love of you.”
It’s important to note that this verse can be challenging to interpret without the broader context of Paul’s relationship with the Corinthians. The following verses provide more insight into Paul’s genuine concern for the church and his desire for their spiritual well‑being. Overall, 2 Corinthians 12:16 serves as a reminder of Paul’s commitment to integrity and his deep care for the Corinthians. He wanted to ensure that they understood his motivations and recognized his genuine concern for them, even when his actions seemed crafty or strategic.
