Strong’s Greek 2655 appears exclusively in 2 Corinthians (11:9; 12:13; 12:14). In each case Paul states that he “did not become a burden” to the Corinthian believers. The verb underscores Paul’s deliberate refusal to draw material support from the congregation during his earlier visits and correspondence.

Context in 2 Corinthians

2 Corinthians was penned amid tensions with a church that questioned Paul’s apostolic credentials. By reminding them, “I was not a burden to anyone” (2 Corinthians 11:9), Paul contrasts his conduct with that of itinerant teachers who expected payment. The repetition in 2 Corinthians 12:13–14 highlights a continuing commitment: “I will not be a burden, because I do not want your possessions, but you.” Paul’s stance safeguards the gospel from accusations of self-interest and reinforces his genuine pastoral affection.

Paul’s Philosophy of Ministry and Self-Support

1. Gospel Priority. Paul insists that the message must never be hindered by financial expectations (1 Corinthians 9:12).
2. Freedom for Service. By working with his own hands (Acts 18:3), he retains freedom to preach without compromise.
3. Example to Believers. His refusal to be burdensome models sacrificial love and encourages generosity without coercion (2 Thessalonians 3:7–9).

Historical Background: Patronage in the Greco-Roman World

First-century teachers commonly relied on wealthy patrons. Acceptance of patronage often entailed social obligations and diminished independence. Paul’s tentmaking circumvented this system, shielding the Corinthian church from undue social pressure and preserving the gospel’s integrity in a culture sensitive to financial motives.

Implications for Christian Stewardship

• Voluntary Giving over Obligation. True stewardship flows from gratitude, not compulsion (2 Corinthians 9:7).
• Ministry Accountability. Leaders are called to handle resources transparently, avoiding any hint of greed (1 Peter 5:2–3).
• Mutual Care. While Paul relinquished his right to support, he elsewhere affirms the church’s responsibility to meet genuine needs of faithful laborers (Galatians 6:6; 1 Timothy 5:17–18). The principle is freedom in love, not rigid policy.

Balancing Liberty and Responsibility

Paul exercised liberty by declining aid, yet readily received help from Macedonia (2 Corinthians 11:9). The verb in 2 Corinthians conveys a temporary suspension of his right, not the abolition of support structures. Christian workers may follow varying models—self-supporting, partially supported, or fully supported—so long as the gospel remains paramount.

Related Biblical Themes

• Sacrificial Service: “I will most gladly spend and be spent for you” (2 Corinthians 12:15).
• Integrity in Ministry: “Our appeal does not arise from deceit or impure motives” (1 Thessalonians 2:3–5).
• Contentment: “I have learned to be content regardless of my circumstances” (Philippians 4:11).

Application in Contemporary Ministry

Pastors, missionaries, and Christian organizations may revisit Paul’s example when serving emerging or economically fragile congregations. Short-term refusal of local funds can foster trust, especially where spiritual leaders have previously exploited believers. Bi-vocational ministry, micro-enterprise, or external partnerships can relieve fledgling churches while they grow in stewardship.

Doctrinal Reflections

The Spirit-inspired repetition of Strong’s 2655 in 2 Corinthians testifies to Scripture’s consistent call for self-denial in leadership. Christ’s example—“though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor” (2 Corinthians 8:9)—forms the ultimate pattern. Paul’s avoidance of burden is not merely practical; it is Christological, echoing the Incarnate Lord who served rather than being served (Mark 10:45).

Concluding Thoughts

Strong’s 2655 invites believers and leaders alike to evaluate ministry methods against the touchstone of love. Whether receiving or renouncing material support, the aim must always be to advance the gospel, strengthen the church, and mirror the self-giving heart of the Savior.