John Calvin Commentary Acts 20:33

"I coveted no man`s silver, or gold, or apparel." — Acts 20:33 (ASV)

I have not. As he recently showed what a harmful plague ambition is, so now he shows that they must beware of covetousness (or avarice). He makes himself an example again in this very matter: he coveted no one’s goods but rather earned his living with the work of his hands.

This was not because his earnings were sufficient to support him without some help, but because by applying himself to manual labor, he spared the churches, so that he might not be too burdensome to them, as much as was in his power. We must note that he not only denies taking anything violently—as hungry fellows often importunately extort prey—but he also affirms that he was free from all wicked desire. From this we gather that no one can be a good minister of the Word unless he also despises money. And surely, we see that nothing is more common than for those who are utterly devoted to shameful gain to corrupt the Word of God in order to win the favor of people. Paul sharply condemns this vice in bishops elsewhere (1 Timothy 3:3).