Introduction: 2 Corinthians 8 was written by Paul, to the Corinthian church regarding generosity and the grace of giving. In this chapter, Paul speaks about the example set by the Macedonian churches, the importance of sincere giving, and the need for integrity in handling the church’s finances. He encourages the Corinthians to excel in the grace of giving, just as they excel in faith, speech, knowledge, and love. This chapter should inspire believers to consider our own attitudes towards generosity in year 2024.
I. Paul Commends the Macedonian Churches (2 Corinthians 8:1-5)
In these verses, Paul praises the Macedonian churches for their generous giving despite severe trials and poverty. He points out that they gave voluntarily, beyond their ability, and even begged for the privilege to share in the service of the saints. This is an example of giving that is inspired by God’s grace, not of their own human heart or compulsion.
Cross reference verses:
- Acts 11:29-30: The disciples in Antioch gave according to their ability to help the believers in Judea, demonstrating early Christian generosity.
- Romans 15:26: Paul mentions the contribution from Macedonia for the poor among the saints in Jerusalem, showing their continued generosity.
- Philippians 4:18-19: The Philippians’ gifts to Paul are described as a fragrant offering, which ties into the idea of willing and joyful giving.
II. The Call to Excel in Giving (2 Corinthians 8:6-8)
Paul encourages the Corinthians to excel in the act of grace, which is giving. He has sent Titus to them to remind them of this grace (charity in giving) and to complete the collection they had previously started. Paul does not command them, but tests the sincerity of their love by comparing it to the earnestness of others.
Cross reference verses:
- 1 Corinthians 16:1-3: Paul gives instructions about the collection for God’s people, showing this was a planned act of giving.
- Romans 12:8: Those who give should do so generously and with a sincere heart.
- 1 John 3:17-18: Our love must be shown through actions and in truth, not just spoken.
III. Christ’s Example of Generosity (2 Corinthians 8:9)
In these verses, Paul points to Jesus Christ as the ultimate example of generosity. Though Christ was rich (He owned it all), for our sake He became poor (no home, Matthew 8:20), so that through His poverty we might become rich (John 3:16). This is the greatest demonstration in the Bible of selfless giving and love.
Cross reference verses:
- Philippians 2:6-8: Christ’s humility and sacrifice, becoming human and obedient to death, exemplify selfless love.
- Matthew 20:28: Jesus came to serve and give His life as a ransom for many.
- 1 Peter 3:18: Christ suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring us to God.
IV. Advice on Completing the Collection (2 Corinthians 8:10-15)
The Bible outlines what would be best for the Corinthian Church in regards to an offering or collection. They were the first to start a year ago, and now they should complete it. Paul advises that the willingness to give should match one’s means. He points to the principle of equality, using the manna in Exodus as an illustration that those who gathered much did not have too much, and those who gathered little did not have too little.
Cross reference verses:
- Exodus 16:18: When the Israelites gathered manna, all had enough, illustrating God’s desire for equality and provision for all.
- Proverbs 19:17: Lending to the Lord by being kind to the poor, which suggests that giving to the needy is ultimately giving to God.
- Luke 14:28-30: Counting the cost and finishing what you start, which applies to the Corinthians’ commitment to the collection.
Conclusion: 2 Corinthians 8 is a profound call to generosity that focuses on the attitude of the heart, the Lord loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7). The Bible outlines the principles of Christian giving, inspired by the Macedonian churches’ example, Christ’s own sacrifice, and the need for completing commitments. Our giving is to be done with a sincere heart, according to our means of giving, and with the understanding that we are taking part in a greater act of grace. This chapter challenges us to examine our own willingness to give and to do so joyfully, testifying to the generosity of Christ Himself.
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