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2 Corinthians 8

Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia;

How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality.

For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves;

Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.

And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God.

Insomuch that we desired Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace also.

Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also.

I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love.

For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.

And herein I give my advice: for this is expedient for you, who have begun before, not only to do, but also to be forward a year ago.

Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have.

For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.

For I mean not that other men be eased, and ye burdened:

But by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there may be equality:

As it is written, He that had gathered much had nothing over; and he that had gathered little had no lack.

But thanks be to God, which put the same earnest care into the heart of Titus for you.

For indeed he accepted the exhortation; but being more forward, of his own accord he went unto you.

And we have sent with him the brother, whose praise is in the gospel throughout all the churches;

And not that only, but who was also chosen of the churches to travel with us with this grace, which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and declaration of your ready mind:

Avoiding this, that no man should blame us in this abundance which is administered by us:

Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.

And we have sent with them our brother, whom we have oftentimes proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, upon the great confidence which I have in you.

Whether any do inquire of Titus, he is my partner and fellowhelper concerning you: or our brethren be inquired of, they are the messengers of the churches, and the glory of Christ.

Wherefore shew ye to them, and before the churches, the proof of your love, and of our boasting on your behalf.

What does 2 Corinthians 8:10 mean?

Explanation

2 Corinthians 8:10 is part of a larger section where Paul is addressing the church at Corinth regarding the collection of funds for the saints in Jerusalem.

In this specific verse, Paul is offering his advice on the matter.

He is appealing to the Corinthians' earlier enthusiasm for the project.

The verse suggests that the Corinthians had previously indicated a readiness to contribute a year ago (possibly during a prior visit or letter), not only by beginning to take action but also by expressing a desire to do so.

Paul is encouraging them to follow through on their initial eagerness and to complete the act of giving that they had started.

The deeper meaning deals with the follow-through in commitments made, especially those that benefit others and are in service to God.

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Historical Context

The early Christian community often faced persecution and hardships.

The church in Jerusalem, in particular, was experiencing poverty and difficulties due to several factors, such as famine and social ostracization.

The Apostle Paul initiated a collection among the Gentile churches he founded to assist their Jewish Christian brothers and sisters in Jerusalem.

This call for generosity reflects the sense of unity and mutual support that was encouraged in the early Christian communities.

It is within this framework of assistance that Paul writes to the Corinthian church, urging them to make good on their previous commitment.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse highlights the Christian ethic of charity and communal responsibility.

There is an implied understanding that the act of giving is a part of Christian life that reflects the grace of God.

In Pauline theology, such giving is not just about financial assistance but is also seen as an expression of love and the unity of the body of Christ.

Practical Applications

The practical applications drawn from 2 Corinthians 8:10 involve being consistent and following through on one's commitments.

For modern readers, this might mean honoring pledges to charitable work or donations, or more broadly, staying true to our word in all areas of life.

It serves as a reminder that early intent and enthusiasm should lead to action, and one should finish what they started with the same vigor.

Cross-References

2 Corinthians 9:7 - "Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver."
Galatians 6:9 - "And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not."
Philippians 1:6 - "Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:"

Language Study

Within the original Greek text, the word "προενάρξασθαι" (proenarxasthai) stands out, which means "to begin before," suggesting prior action. "Βουλήσεως" (bouleseos) refers to the purpose or resolve, indicating the Corinthians' initial willingness.

Emphasis is also on "ποιῆσαι" (poiesai) to do, and "θέλειν" (thelein) to will or to be forward.

This delineation emphasizes the difference between willing something and acting upon it.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of communal support and charitable giving found in this verse parallels principles seen in other religious traditions.

For example, in Judaism, "tzedakah" is the practice of charitable giving, which is considered a moral obligation.

In Islam, "zakat" is one of the Five Pillars and requires Muslims to give a portion of their wealth to those in need.

Scientific Perspectives

While this verse does not directly intersect with scientific concepts, psychology can provide insight into human behavior regarding commitments and follow-through.

Research in behavioral psychology might explore the reasons behind why initial enthusiasm wanes and what factors contribute to the successful completion of commitments.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians offer various interpretations of 2 Corinthians 8:10.

Some see it as an illustration of Paul's pastoral leadership, delicately balancing the need to encourage without commanding. Others focus on the aspect of communal Christian responsibility, noting that Paul is nurturing an interconnectedness among diverse churches through mutual aid.

Many agree that Paul's approach reflects a theology deeply rooted in the grace of God, which empowers generosity and faithful action.

2 Corinthians 8

2 Corinthians 8

What does 2 Corinthians 8:10 mean?

Explanation

Top Rated 2 Corinthians Books

Historical Context

Theological Insights

Practical Applications

Cross-References

Language Study

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Scientific Perspectives

Commentaries

Want more context?

What does 2 Corinthians 8:10 mean?

Explanation

Top Rated 2 Corinthians Books

Historical Context

Theological Insights

Practical Applications

Cross-References

Language Study

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Scientific Perspectives

Commentaries

Want more context?