2 Corinthians 1:17

Lightness. Gr. elaphria, “lightness [of mind],” “fickleness,” “changeableness.” When Paul originally made the promise (v. 15) he intended conscientiously to fulfill it. His change in plans was not the result of fickleness on his part, but for their good (see chs. 1:23; 2:1-4). Paul now proceeds to explain and defend his change of plans against the charges made by his opponents. It had apparently been reported in Corinth that he no longer meant to come directly from Ephesus. Also, he had not heretofore personally explained things to them. His opponents had seized upon this situation to charge him with failing to keep his word and with not being dependable.

According to the flesh. Could it be possible that Paul’s decisions were arrived at on the basis of selfish interest? Did he lay his plans as men of the world do? Did he casually and capriciously alter his plans when it became apparent that his personal interest would be better served thereby?

Yea, yea, and nay nay. Had Paul actually been planning not to visit Corinth all the while he had talked about doing so? Did he mean No when he said Yes? Or was he so vacillating that he could say both Yes and No, almost in the same breath? Was it really true that no one could depend on him or know what to expect of him? Paul denies this.

His projected double visit had been prevented, not by fickleness on his part, but by their faithlessness and his desire to avoid dealing harshly with them. See on Matt. 5:37; cf. James 5:12.