2 Corinthians 9

Following his encouragement for generosity in the previous chapter, Paul continues in Chapter 9 to motivate the Corinthians to fulfill their pledge towards the collection for Jerusalem. He uses theological and practical reasons to inspire and instruct on cheerful and bountiful giving, linking their generosity to the broader themes of blessing, thanksgiving, and the manifestation of God's grace.

2 Corinthians 9:1-2 (NKJV)
1 For it is unnecessary for me to write to you concerning the ministering to the saints,
2 for I know your willingness, about which I boast of you to the Macedonians, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal has stirred up the majority.

Paul acknowledges the Corinthians' initial enthusiasm for the collection, noting that their readiness had been a positive example to others, including the Macedonians. He uses their previous commitment as a benchmark, encouraging them to live up to their own standards of generosity, which had inspired others to give.

2 Corinthians 9:3-5 (NKJV)
3 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;
4 lest if some Macedonians come with me and find you unprepared, we (not to mention you) should be ashamed of this confident boasting.
5 Therefore I thought it necessary to urge 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 a grudging obligation.

Paul explains that he sent the brethren ahead to ensure the Corinthians are prepared to fulfill their promise. He wants to avoid any embarrassment for both parties if the Macedonians, expecting to see the Corinthians’ proclaimed generosity, find them unprepared. This strategic move is meant to help the Corinthians deliver on their pledge in a way that reflects a genuine, willing spirit rather than a forced contribution, preserving the integrity and joyful nature of their giving.

2 Corinthians 9:6-7 (NKJV)
6 But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.
7 So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.

Paul uses the metaphor of sowing and reaping to emphasize the principle of proportionate return in giving. He encourages the Corinthians to give generously, assuring them that generous giving results in generous returns. The decision on how much to give should be made willingly and joyfully, as this attitude aligns with God's preference for cheerful rather than reluctant givers.

2 Corinthians 9:8-9 (NKJV)
8 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.
9 As it is written: "He has dispersed abroad, He has given to the poor; His righteousness endures forever."

Paul reassures the Corinthians that their ability to give generously is supported by God's provision. He points out that God's grace not only ensures they have enough for their own needs but also empowers them to support various forms of good work. He quotes Psalm 112 to illustrate the enduring nature of righteousness that comes from generosity, underscoring that acts of giving have long-lasting spiritual implications.

2 Corinthians 9:10-11 (NKJV)
10 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,
11 being enriched in everything to all bountifulness, which causes through us thanksgiving to God.

Paul invokes a blessing on the Corinthians, asking God to multiply their resources and the impact of their generosity. This increase in resources will not only fulfill their material needs but also enhance their capacity for generosity. The result of their enriched generosity leads to increased thanksgiving to God, creating a cycle of blessing that glorifies God and benefits the community.

2 Corinthians 9:12-14 (NKJV)
12 For the administration of this service not only supplies the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God.
13 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,
14 and by their prayer for you, who long for you because of the exceeding grace of God in you.

Paul explains the dual impact of the Corinthians' contribution: it meets the needs of the saints in Jerusalem and also results in an outpouring of gratitude towards God. Furthermore, this generous act serves as a tangible proof of their faith and obedience to the gospel, prompting others to glorify God and strengthening the bonds within the Christian community through prayers and mutual affection.

2 Corinthians 9:15 (NKJV)
15 Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!

Paul concludes the discussion of generosity with a doxology, expressing profound gratitude to God for His unspeakable gift—Jesus Christ. This closing exclamation encapsulates the ultimate example of generosity and the source of all giving, pointing back to the spiritual and eternal dimensions of Christian generosity, which reflect Christ’s own sacrificial gift. This expression of thanks elevates the act of giving from a mere duty to a form of worship, acknowledging the divine source of all gifts and grace.