What does 2 Corinthians 8:11 mean?

Explanation

2 Corinthians 8:11 requires understanding within the broader context of Paul's appeal for the Corinthian church to contribute to the collection he was organizing for the impoverished believers in Jerusalem.

In this verse, Paul is exhorting the Corinthians to follow through on their previous willingness to contribute. He emphasizes that their initial eagerness to help should be matched by actual giving, according to their means.

The verse thus highlights the importance of turning good intentions into concrete actions.

Historical Context

During the time this letter was written, the early Christian community was working to support one another materially, especially those who were facing hardship.

Paul's letter to the church at Corinth reflects his efforts to encourage a sense of unity and mutual support within the wider Christian community.

He had previously spoken to the Corinthians about a collection for the saints in Jerusalem, and their initial response was positive.

This verse from Paul's second letter to the Corinthians comes as a reminder and encouragement for them to complete the work they had started.

Theological Insights

Theologically, 2 Corinthians 8:11, and indeed the entire eighth chapter, emphasizes the Christian principle of generosity as an expression of love and unity within the body of Christ.

It also reflects the concept of stewardship, where believers are viewed not as owners of their possessions but as caretakers who use their resources for God's purposes.

This verse may also be interpreted from the lens of 'faith and works,' illustrating that faith is authenticated through actions.

Practical Applications

This verse encourages individuals to follow through on their commitments, especially in the context of helping others.

It serves as a reminder to not just intend to do good but to act on those intentions.

In practical terms, this could relate to volunteering, donations to charity, community service, or any good works that one has planned or promised to do.

Cross-References

• James 2:15-17: "If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone."
• 1 John 3:18: "My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth."
• Luke 12:33: "Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth."

Language Study

The original Greek language provides nuances that are important to the understanding of this passage:

• "perform" (Greek: ἐπιτελέσατε, epitelesate) indicates completion or bringing to a conclusion.
• "readiness to will" (Greek: προθυμίαν τοῦ θέλειν, prothymian tou thelein) refers to the eagerness or willingness to do something.
• "performance" (Greek: τὸ ποιῆσαι, to poiēsai) refers to the action of doing or making something happen.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In many ancient cultures, including those surrounding the early Christian communities, charity and mutual assistance were valued.

For example, in Jewish tradition, acts of charity (tzedakah) are considered both a moral obligation and a manifestation of justice.

Comparing it to religious interpretations within Buddhism, giving (dāna) is also considered a virtuous act that purifies and transforms the giver.

Scientific Perspectives

This verse connects with the psychological understanding that taking concrete actions can lead to greater psychological wellbeing than merely holding positive intentions.

Acts of generosity and follow-through on commitments can contribute to an individual's sense of purpose and satisfaction, as supported by various psychological studies on well-being and prosocial behavior.

Commentaries

Several Bible scholars have examined this verse:

• John Calvin underscores the importance of matching our readiness to do good with actual deeds.
• Matthew Henry emphasizes that the principle extends beyond monetary giving.

It is about being faithful to our word and generous in spirit.

• The New International Commentary on the New Testament suggests that this verse is part of Paul's rhetorical strategy to tactfully remind the Corinthians of their commitment without directly commanding them, thus encouraging voluntary generosity.