There is no need for me to write to you about this service to the Lord’s people. For I know your eagerness to help, and I have been boasting about it to the Macedonians, telling them that since last year you in Achaia were ready to give; and your enthusiasm has stirred most of them to action. But I am sending the brothers in order that our boasting about you in this matter should not prove hollow, but that you may be ready, as I said you would be. For if any Macedonians come with me and find you unprepared, we—not to say anything about you—would be ashamed of having been so confident. So I thought it necessary to urge the brothers to visit you in advance and finish the arrangements for the generous gift you had promised. Then it will be ready as a generous gift, not as one grudgingly given.
- 2 Corinthians 9:1-5
While this section begins a new chapter in our English Bibles, we need to remember that it was not originally written with chapters and verse numbers, so this section is a continuation of Paul’s thoughts on the topic of generosity, which he has been discussing since the beginning of chapter 8.
Here, he begins in verse 1 by expressing confidence in the Corinthians' awareness and commitment to the service of the Lord's people. His phrase “There is no need for me to write to you” suggests that the Corinthians are already well-informed and enthusiastic about their charitable activities. This statement sets a positive tone, recognizing their past efforts and existing willingness to give. Paul acknowledges the readiness of the Corinthians to express generosity, which can serve as an encouragement for us to reflect on our own readiness and willingness to serve others. Are we proactive in our generosity, or do we need reminders and prompts to act?
In verse 2, Paul praises the Corinthians' eagerness and uses their example to motivate others. He mentions that he has been boasting about their willingness to help to the Macedonians, creating a sense of healthy competition and mutual encouragement among the churches. The phrase "your enthusiasm has stirred most of them to action" highlights the contagious nature of genuine zeal and generosity. This verse reminds us of the powerful impact our actions can have on others. When we are enthusiastic and proactive in our service and giving, it can inspire and encourage those around us to do the same. Our generosity can create a ripple effect, motivating others to join in the effort.
Paul's mention of sending "the brothers" in verse 3 is a strategic move to ensure that his boasting does not turn out to be empty words. He wants to ensure that the Corinthians' readiness is maintained and that they follow through on their commitments. This verse highlights the importance of accountability and follow-through in our commitments. “The brothers” Paul is talking about were brought up in the previous section, where Paul explains how he is sending Titus and two other men to collect their offering and take it to where it’s needed in Jerusalem.
Accountability and integrity are crucial in our walk of faith. It is easy to make commitments and express intentions, but without follow-through, these promises remain hollow. Having accountability partners or systems in place can help us stay true to our commitments and maintain our readiness to serve.
In verse 4, Paul expresses concern about the potential embarrassment that could arise if the Corinthians are found unprepared when the Macedonians visit. This concern underscores the importance of living up to the expectations set by one's commitments and the reputational impact of failing to do so. This verse challenges us to consider the implications of our actions on our reputation and the perception of others. It reminds us that our commitments are not just personal but have communal and relational dimensions. We must strive to be reliable and trustworthy, ensuring that our actions align with our words.
Paul emphasizes the importance of preparing in advance and ensuring that the gift is given generously and willingly, not reluctantly or under compulsion (verse 5). He wants the Corinthians' financial gift to be a reflection of their true generosity and not something given out of obligation or pressure. The manner in which we give is just as important as the act of giving itself. True generosity comes from a willing and cheerful heart. Preparation and intentionality in our giving can help ensure that our contributions are meaningful and reflect our genuine desire to serve and support others.
This passage gives us some practical advice for our own generosity in the Church. Our enthusiasm for giving can inspire and encourage those around us to also give enthusiastically. We should have systems or people in place around us to help maintain our accountability and integrity in these matters, following through on what we say we are going to do. Being reliable and trustworthy in our commitments has a positive impact on both our reputation and our relationships with others. Giving with a willing heart and not begrudgingly shows that we demonstrate true generosity, not just giving out of mere obligation.
If we follow Paul’s words of wisdom here, we can cultivate a culture of generosity and readiness, making a positive impact on our communities and reflecting the love and grace of Christ in our actions.
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