2Cor 12:14 | JFB | STEP | 14. the third time-- See Introduction to the first Epistle. His second visit was probably a short one ( ), and attended with humiliation through the scandalous conduct of some of his converts (compare ; ). It was probably paid during his three years' sojourn at Ephesus, from which he could pass so readily by sea to Corinth (compare , ; , ). The context here implies nothing of a third preparation to come; but, "I am coming, and the third time, and will not burden you this time any more than I did at my two previous visits" [Alford]. not yours, but you-- ( ). children ... parents-- Paul was their spiritual father ( , ). He does not, therefore, seek earthly treasure from them, but lays up the best treasure (namely, spiritual) "for their souls" ( ).

‏ 2 Corinthians 12:14

14. the third time--See Introduction to the first Epistle. His second visit was probably a short one (1Co 16:7), and attended with humiliation through the scandalous conduct of some of his converts (compare 2Co 12:21; 2Co 2:1). It was probably paid during his three years' sojourn at Ephesus, from which he could pass so readily by sea to Corinth (compare 2Co 1:15, 16; 13:1, 2). The context here implies nothing of a third preparation to come; but, "I am coming, and the third time, and will not burden you this time any more than I did at my two previous visits" [Alford].

not yours, but you--(Php 4:17).

children ... parents--Paul was their spiritual father (1Co 4:14, 15). He does not, therefore, seek earthly treasure from them, but lays up the best treasure (namely, spiritual) "for their souls" (2Co 12:15).