John Calvin Commentary Philippians 4:17

"Not that I seek for the gift; but I seek for the fruit that increaseth to your account." — Philippians 4:17 (ASV)

Not that I demand a gift. Again, he counters an unfavorable opinion that might be formed of excessive greed, so that they would not suppose it was an indirect hint, as if they alone ought to take the place of all others, and as if he were abusing their kindness. He therefore declares that he was not considering his own advantage so much as theirs. “While I receive from you,” he says, “there is a proportionate advantage that accrues to you; for there are just as many items that you may consider credited to your account.” The meaning of this word is connected with the analogy previously used concerning exchange or compensation in financial matters.