What does 2 Corinthians 9:6 mean?

Explanation

The apostle Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 9:6 with an analogy between physical farming and spiritual giving.

The literal meaning pertains to the act of sowing seeds, where sowing sparingly results in a scant harvest, and sowing bountifully leads to an abundant harvest.

The deeper meaning applies this agricultural principle to generosity and sharing of resources.

It suggests that those who give generously will reap the benefits abundantly, both materially and spiritually.

This verse underlines the principle of reciprocity and divine reward for acts of charity.

Historical Context

2 Corinthians is a letter written by Paul to the church in Corinth, a city in ancient Greece. This letter was likely composed in the year 55 or 56 A.D. During this time, Paul was organizing a collection for the impoverished Christian community in Jerusalem.

The verse is part of a larger discourse (2 Corinthians 9) wherein Paul is encouraging the Corinthian believers to honor their previous commitment to this collection and to give willingly and cheerfully.

The culture of the time held hospitality and generosity in high esteem and so, Paul appeals to these values as he exhorts the Corinthians to be liberal in their giving.

Theological Insights

Theologically, the verse highlights the notion of sowing and reaping, which is a common theme throughout the Bible.

It suggests a providential order to generosity, what you give returns to you, often increased.

From a Calvinist perspective, the reaping is not necessarily material but may signify spiritual blessings or rewards in heaven.

In contrast, prosperity gospel advocates might interpret this verse as a promise of material return on giving. Liberation theology may focus on the social implications, emphasizing the verse’s call to support the needy and expecting collective, not just individual rewards.

Practical Applications

In a practical sense, the verse encourages individuals to reflect on their attitude towards giving.

It reminds us that generosity is not only a duty but an investment into one's own spiritual well-being and possibly into the well-being of their community.

The application may spread over various aspects of life including time, talents, and treasures.

This principle can be practiced in acts of charity, volunteer work, and even in interpersonal relationships where the "seeds" sown are kindness and support.

Cross-References

• Galatians 6:7 - "Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap."
• Proverbs 11:24 - "There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty."
• Luke 6:38 - "Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom.

For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again."

• Malachi 3:10 - "Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it."

Language Study

In the original Greek language of the New Testament, the word for "sparingly" is "pheido" (φειδομένως), which means to be sparing or stingy.

The word for "bountifully" is "eulogia" (εὐλογίας), which translates to blessings and is associated with generosity.

The word for "reap" is "therizo" (θερίζω), which is to harvest or to gather in crops.

Thus, the language emphasizes the contrast between stinginess and generosity, and the corresponding outcomes of these actions.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In cultural and religious texts outside the Bible, the concept of karma in Hinduism and Buddhism aligns with the principle of sowing and reaping: actions have consequences, both good and bad.

The Ancient Egyptian concept of "Ma'at" also reflects a balance between actions and outcomes, stressing ethical and moral behavior.

This verse parallels these ideas in promoting a mindful approach to ethics and morality based on a principle of reciprocity.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, while the principle of cause and effect is widely recognized, the idea that altruistic behavior leads to personal benefit has been explored in the field of evolutionary biology.

Altruism, or selfless concern for the well-being of others, may be advantageous to the survival of social groups.

Although not straightforwardly linked to the spiritual notion of reaping benefits, research has shown that generosity can lead to positive social outcomes and psychological benefits for the giver.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians have different interpretations of this verse.

Many agree that Paul is encouraging voluntary and cheerful giving, not out of compulsion but from a heart of generosity.

John Calvin saw this as a call to faithful stewardship of God's gifts, where the measure of one's faith might be reflected in the measure of their generosity.

More contemporary scholars emphasize the relational aspect of giving, how it builds community and reflects God's grace.

Prosperity theologians, like those in the Word of Faith movement, view this verse as a promise of material return for financial faithfulness to God.