Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary 2 Corinthians 6:12

"Ye are not straitened in us, but ye are straitened in your own affections." — 2 Corinthians 6:12 (ASV)

Paul did not customarily address his readers by name, doing so only when his emotions had been deeply stirred—as at the bewitchment of the Galatians (Galatians 3:1), at the generosity of the Philippians , or here, at the remarkable candor of his defense and the intensity of his affection for the Corinthians. Behind his freedom of speech (cf. 3:12; 4:2) was a warmly receptive attitude of heart. “If there are any feelings of constriction or restraint in our relationship,” he continues, “they are on your side, not mine. I appeal to you as my spiritual children [cf. 1 Corinthians 4:14–15]: in fair exchange for my unrestricted affection, give me yours, too.” Although Paul’s desire was for complete reciprocity in family relationships, he was acutely aware that affection could only be given, not taken.