Devine Scripture

2 Corinthians 11:8

What does 2 Corinthians 11:8 mean?

A plain-English look at 2 Corinthians 11:8 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What 2 Corinthians 11:8 means

With biting irony, Paul says he “robbed” other churches by accepting their support to serve the Corinthians. Of course, he did not literally steal. He emphasizes the cost others bore so that he could offer the gospel in Corinth free of charge. This undercuts any claim that he ministered for money or lacked backing. His decision guarded the Corinthians’ consciences and silenced those who insisted on the prestige of paid philosophers. True ministry aims at edifying people, not at securing patronage. By noting how other churches supported him, Paul shows that the wider body of Christ valued his work and partnered in the Corinthians’ spiritual good.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

I robbed other churches, taking wages of them that I might minister unto you;

KJV

King James Version · 1611

I robbed other churches, taking wages of them, to do you service.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

I robbed other churches, taking wages of them that I might minister unto you;

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

I took money from other churches as payment for my work, so that I might be your servant;

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

other assemblies I did rob, having taken wages, for your ministration;

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

I have taken from other churches, receiving wages of them for your ministry.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

I spoiled other assemblies, receiving hire for ministry towards you.

Context

Continuing the financial theme, Paul’s irony in v.8 highlights his sacrifice and the generosity of other believers. He wants the Corinthians to recognize that his refusal to be supported by them was deliberate and loving. In v.9 he recounts a specific instance of need met by Macedonian believers. Then in vv.10–12 he resolves to keep this policy, both to demonstrate sincere love and to deny his opponents any foothold for accusation. The exposure of those opponents follows in vv.13–15.

v.7Or did I commit a sin in abasing myself that ye might be exalted, because I preached to you the gospel of God for nought?

v.8This passage

v.9and when I was present with you and was in want, I was not a burden on any man; for the brethren, when they came from Macedonia, supplied the measure of my want; and in everything I kept myself from being burdensome unto you, and so will I keep myself.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Philippians 4:14

    Howbeit ye did well that ye had fellowship with my affliction.

  • Philippians 4:18

    But I have all things, and abound: I am filled, having received from Epaphroditus the things that came from you, an odor of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, well-pleasing to God.

  • 2 Corinthians 11:9

    and when I was present with you and was in want, I was not a burden on any man; for the brethren, when they came from Macedonia, supplied the measure of my want; and in everything I kept myself from being burdensome unto you, and so will I keep myself.

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