2 Corinthians 9
In this chapter, Paul continues to discuss the principles and benefits of cheerful and generous giving. He encourages the Corinthian church to follow through with their commitment to the collection for the saints in Jerusalem, emphasizing the spiritual rewards of generosity. Paul aims to prepare the Corinthians not only to fulfill their promises but also to understand how their giving serves as a ministry that glorifies God and spreads the Gospel.
2 Corinthians 9:1-2 (NKJV)
Now concerning the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you; for I know your willingness, about which I boast to you to the Macedonians, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal has stirred up the majority.
Paul addresses the Corinthians' preparedness to help the Jerusalem saints, noting that their eagerness has already been used as a motivational example for others. He highlights the Corinthians' commitment, which had been known for a year, to demonstrate their leadership in generosity.
2 Corinthians 9:3-4 (NKJV)
Yet I have sent the brethren, lest our boasting of you should be in vain in this respect, that, as I said, you may be ready; lest if some Macedonians come with me and find you unprepared, we (not to mention you!) should be ashamed of this confident boasting.
To ensure that the Corinthians are indeed prepared as he has boasted, Paul sends representatives in advance. This is to prevent any embarrassment for both Paul and the Corinthians if the Macedonians, inspired by their example, arrive to find them not ready to give as promised.
2 Corinthians 9:5 (NKJV)
Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren to go to you ahead of time, and prepare your generous gift beforehand, which you had previously promised, that it may be ready as a matter of generosity and not as of grudging obligation.
Paul explains his proactive approach in sending the brothers ahead to organize the collection of the promised gift. He emphasizes that this should be done willingly and generously, not as a reluctant obligation, to preserve the purity and joy of their giving.
2 Corinthians 9:6 (NKJV)
But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.
Using the metaphor of sowing and reaping, Paul underscores a principle of generosity: the measure of giving directly influences the measure of blessing received. It is a spiritual truth that generous giving results in abundant blessings.
2 Corinthians 9:7 (NKJV)
So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.
Paul encourages each person to give according to their own decision, motivated by joy rather than reluctance or compulsion. This verse highlights that God values not just the act of giving but the attitude behind it.
2 Corinthians 9:8 (NKJV)
And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work.
Paul reassures the Corinthians that God will provide for them abundantly, enabling them to be generous in all circumstances. This promise of divine provision underscores that their generosity is enabled by God's grace.
2 Corinthians 9:9-10 (NKJV)
As it is written: “He has dispersed abroad, He has given to the poor; His righteousness endures forever.” Now may He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, supply and multiply the seed you have sown and increase the fruits of your righteousness,
Quoting Psalm 112:9, Paul reflects on the enduring nature of righteousness expressed through generosity. He prays that God, who provides for the basic needs of all, will also bless the Corinthians' charitable actions, multiplying their resources and spiritual outcomes.
2 Corinthians 9:11 (NKJV)
while you are enriched in everything for all liberality, which causes thanksgiving to God through us.
The result of their generosity is twofold: they will be enriched and enabled to be even more generous, leading to increased thanksgiving to God. Paul ties their physical enrichment with spiritual and communal benefits, illustrating the cycle of blessing that generosity initiates.
2 Corinthians 9:12-13 (NKJV)
For the administration of this service not only supplies the needs of the saints but also is overflowing in many thanksgivings to God, while, through the proof of this ministry, they glorify God for the obedience of your confession to the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal sharing with them and all men,
Paul describes the collection as a ministry that not only meets the immediate needs of the saints but also results in widespread gratitude to God. It serves as a testament to the Corinthians' faith and their practical application of the gospel through generous sharing.
2 Corinthians 9:14-15 (NKJV)
and by their prayer for you, who long for you because of the exceeding grace of God in you. Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!
The generosity of the Corinthians fosters affection and prayers from those they help, who feel a deep gratitude for the grace evident in the Corinthians' lives. Paul concludes with praise for God’s ultimate gift—Jesus Christ, whose grace enables every other form of giving.