Paul frames his planned third visit as a relationship of care, not a chance for personal gain. Explicitly, he says he will not “burden” them, he is seeking “you” rather than “your possessions,” and he uses a family picture: parents normally save for children, not the other way around. He then intensifies the point by saying he is willing to “spend and be spent” for their “souls,” even if that stronger love is answered by weaker love.

These claims fit the nearby context where Paul defends his integrity and motives in ministry and answers suspicions that he (or his coworkers) might exploit the church.

Where interpretation differs (only where needed)

What “burden” includes. Some read it mainly as refusing financial support (money and material provision). Others include a broader sense: not placing demands on them—money, hospitality, or social obligations that could look like patronage.

How far the parent-child analogy reaches. Many take it as a limited illustration about financial expectations (leaders not extracting support as proof of status). Others see a wider pastoral claim: Paul relates to them like a founding parent, responsible to give himself for their well-being.

What “souls” highlights. Some hear the focus as their spiritual condition before God. Others hear a holistic meaning—people’s whole lives and welfare—without excluding spiritual concerns.

Why the disagreement exists

The phrases are brief and picture-based. “Burden” can describe different kinds of cost, and the parent-child image can be read narrowly (about money) or more broadly (about leadership posture). Likewise, “souls” can mean inner life, whole person, or the community’s spiritual health depending on context.

What this passage clearly contributes

This paragraph adds a clear motive statement to Paul’s defense: he refuses to treat the Corinthians as a source of benefit. His leadership is presented as costly self-giving rather than profit-seeking. The family analogy gives moral shape to that stance, and the closing question makes room for the painful reality that sacrificial care can be misunderstood and even answered with reduced affection. See also 2 Corinthians 11:9 and 2 Corinthians 12:13.

spent (ekdapanēthēsomai)