What does 2 Corinthians 9:5 mean?

Explanation

2 Corinthians 9:5 speaks to the importance of generous giving and the disposition of the giver.

In this verse, the apostle Paul is speaking to the Corinthian church about a collection (bounty) of money for the believers in Jerusalem who were in need.

He emphasizes that this act of giving should be done willingly and with generosity (as a matter of bounty) rather than out of greed or reluctance (not as of covetousness).

Paul is encouraging the Corinthian believers to prepare their gift in advance, ensuring that it is ready and given in a spirit of true generosity when he arrives with the other brethren.

The preparation of the gift in advance would also promote accountability and the act of giving would be an expression of their love and genuine care for the other members of the Christian community.

Historical Context

During the time Paul wrote the Second Epistle to the Corinthians, the early Christian church in Jerusalem was experiencing hardship, possibly due to famine, persecution, or both.

The Jewish Christian community was among the poor in the city, and Paul was organizing a financial collection from various Gentile churches.

This act not only served the practical need of aiding the impoverished but also symbolized the unity of the Jewish and Gentile believers in Christ.

Paul mentions this collection in other epistles, such as Galatians, Romans, and 1 Corinthians, indicating its significance in the early Christian mission.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse conveys the principle of Christian stewardship and the grace of giving.

It aligns with the teachings of Jesus on generosity and giving with the right intention.

The idea that the gift should not be given grudgingly but as a bountiful blessing reflects the heart of God in giving.

The Christian faith teaches that God loves a cheerful giver (as further noted in 2 Corinthians 9:7), a concept that resonates across various theological traditions within Christianity.

The verse can also be seen as an illustration of the fruit of the Spirit, which includes goodness and generosity.

Practical Applications

This verse can guide Christians in their approach to giving, whether it pertains to financial contributions to the church or helping those in need.

It encourages planning ahead and ensuring one's gift is given out of love and kindness, not out of a sense of obligation or desire for recognition.

This counsel can be applied not only to monetary giving but to offering time, talents, and various forms of support to others.

It can also be a reminder to check one's intentions when contributing to a cause, ensuring the act is done with sincerity and without ulterior motives.

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."
• Acts 20:35 - "I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive."
• 1 Corinthians 16:2 - "Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come."

Language Study

The term "bounty" in this verse originates from the Greek word "eulogia," which could mean a blessing, a gift, or liberality.

"Covetousness," from the Greek "pleonexia," implies greed or the wish for more than one's fair share, often with a negative connotation of exerting an undue desire for what one does not have.

This linguistic analysis clarifies the contrast Paul is drawing, not merely between different types of giving, but between giving that flows from a desire to bless and giving that stems from selfishness.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparison to other ancient cultures and religions, the emphasis on generous giving without a selfish motive aligns with several moral and ethical teachings.

For example, many ancient philosophies, like Stoicism, promoted the virtue of generosity.

Within Judaism, acts of charity (tzedakah) are considered a key component of righteousness.

In the broader Greco-Roman world, patronage was common, but often with expectations of reciprocal benefit or public recognition, whereas early Christian giving was taught to be unconditional and in secret, as seen in Matthew 6:1-4.

Scientific Perspectives

While 2 Corinthians 9:5 is not a scientific text, modern psychology can offer insights into the effects of giving.

Studies in positive psychology have found that altruistic behavior, such as generous giving, can enhance the well-being and happiness of the giver.

This intersection suggests that ancient teachings on generosity might have identifiable benefits that align with contemporary understandings of human psychology and behavior.

Commentaries

Various Bible commentaries offer insights on 2 Corinthians 9:5.

For instance, the Matthew Henry Commentary highlights the importance of being ready to give so as not to be taken by surprise or to act with regret.

John Calvin's commentaries focus on the sincerity of giving and preparing the gift with a cheerful heart, reflecting a genuine sense of fellowship and community in Christ.

Other commentators like William Barclay note the cultural shift from honor/shame-driven giving to the early Christian emphasis on generosity as a reflection of God's gifts to humanity.

Barring some variations in emphasis, most experts agree that the verse calls for intentional and heartfelt generosity among believers.