2 Corinthians 12:14-15

Paul was about to return to Corinth another time, his "anticipated visit." [Note: See the chart in the introduction section of these notes.] When he came, he planned to continue his same financial policy with them; he would remain financially independent of them (cf. 1 Corinthians 9:15; 2 Corinthians 11:9; 2 Corinthians 11:12). He wanted their welfare and their affection more than their money. His concerns were also their spiritual maturity (cf. 1 Corinthians 3:1-4) and their complete devotion to Christ (cf. 2 Corinthians 11:2-3).

As a general principle, parents (Paul) sacrifice for their children (the Corinthians), not the other way around. However in another sense children do have a responsibility to help their parents (cf. 1 Corinthians 9:3-14; 1 Timothy 5:8). Parental responsibility is more basic, however, and this is what Paul stressed here. In family life parents sometimes refuse the support of their children, as Paul did of the Corinthians, if they feel that doing so is in their children’s best interests. Paul planned to use all his resources to contribute to the Corinthians’ welfare. Nevertheless he expected at least their love in return for doing so.