What does 2 Corinthians 8:6 mean?

Explanation

The verse 2 Corinthians 8:6 is part of a section in Paul's second letter to the Corinthians where he talks about the collection of funds for the believers in Jerusalem. Paul is encouraging the Corinthian church to participate in this act of kindness and generosity.

In this verse, Paul is specifically referring to Titus, who was a fellow worker and companion in his missionary journeys.

Paul points out that just as Titus had started this effort of collecting the funds (which can also be seen as a form of grace, as it was an opportunity for the Corinthians to show their love and charity), he should also complete this task among the Corinthians.

The beginning of the work was good, but completing it would be the fulfillment of their commitment to help fellow believers.

Historical Context

This verse was written when the early Christian church was expanding but also facing many hardships.

Paul, as an apostle, often coordinated the collection of funds to support impoverished Christian communities.

The Jerusalem church, at that time, was experiencing significant difficulties, and Paul viewed assistance from Gentile churches not only as a practical relief but also as a demonstration of unity in the body of Christ.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse highlights several concepts:

• The idea of mutual support within the body of Christ.

The more affluent communities are called upon to assist their less fortunate brethren.

• Grace in Pauline theology often refers to God’s unmerited favor, but here it also implies a gracious act that the Corinthians could manifest by completing the collection.
• The notion of partnership in ministry, as observed in Paul's reference to Titus and his role in facilitating this act of grace.

Practical Applications

This verse speaks to the Christian duty of generosity and completing commitments made to help others. Believers are encouraged to follow through with promises and to give to others out of love and charity. The principle is to not just start well but to finish well in every good work.

Cross-References

• 2 Corinthians 8:7: "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."
• 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:"
• Galatians 6:9: "And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not."
• Romans 15:25-26: "But now I go unto Jerusalem to minister unto the saints.

For it hath pleased them of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem."

Language Study

• "Desired" (eparēsamenos): This Greek term conveys an earnest asking or an expression of a wish, indicating that Paul’s asking of Titus to complete this work is heartfelt.
• "Finish" (epitelesei): Deriving from the Greek epiteleo, meaning to bring to an end or to complete.
• "Grace" (chariti): In Greek, charis often means favor or kindness, but in the context of Christian theology, it also extends to the generous actions and attributes of God's character.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other religious and cultural contexts, the idea of charity and communal support is widely embraced.

For example, in Judaism, the concept of tzedakah is akin to charity.

In Islam, zakat is one of the Five Pillars and involves giving to those in need.

Similarly, the act of giving in the Christian context, as encouraged in 2 Corinthians 8:6, is to show love and solidarity with fellow believers.

Scientific Perspectives

While this verse does not directly intersect with scientific understandings, modern psychology reinforces the benefits of generosity. Studies have shown that acts of giving can lead to increased happiness and life satisfaction for the giver as well as support for the receiver.

Commentaries

Different Bible commentaries provide insights on this verse:

• The Expositor's Greek Testament mentions that Paul sought to avoid the administration of the collection himself to prevent any potential accusations and, therefore, desired that Titus be the one to complete the collection in Corinth.
• Matthew Henry’s commentary focuses on the need for the Corinthians to complete the collection as evidence of the sincerity of their love.
• The Pulpit Commentary discusses how the act of giving serves a double purpose, it not only assists those in need but also is a means of grace to the giver, refining and ennobling their character.