Introduction

Second Corinthians 8 addresses the collection for the Jerusalem saints. Paul holds up the Macedonians' sacrificial generosity as an example, grounds giving in Christ's self-giving, and sends Titus to help the Corinthians complete their pledge.

The Macedonians' Example (verses 1-7)

Paul wants them to know about the grace God has given the Macedonian churches. In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. They gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord's people. They exceeded expectations—first giving themselves to the Lord, then to Paul's ministry in keeping with God's will. So Paul urged Titus, since he had started, to bring to completion this act of grace on their part. Since they excel in everything—faith, speech, knowledge, earnestness, and love—Paul wants them to also excel in this grace of giving.

• Joy in Poverty: Their trial produced generosity
• Beyond Ability: They gave more than they could afford
• Privilege, Not Burden: They pleaded for the opportunity
• Themselves First: They gave themselves before their money

Christ's Example (verses 8-15)

Paul is not commanding but testing the sincerity of their love by comparing it with the earnestness of others. For they know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for their sake He became poor, so that through His poverty they might become rich. Here is Paul's judgment: last year they were the first not only to give but also to have the desire to do so. Now finish the work, so that their eager willingness to do it may be matched by completion, according to their means. For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have. Paul's desire is not that others be relieved while they are burdened, but that there might be equality. At the present time their plenty will supply what others need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what the Corinthians need. Then there will be equality, as it is written: "The one who gathered much did not have too much, and the one who gathered little did not have too little."

Sending Titus (verses 16-24)

Thanks be to God who put into the heart of Titus the same concern Paul has for them. Titus welcomed the appeal and is coming to them on his own initiative. Along with him Paul is sending the brother who is praised by all the churches for his service to the gospel—and who was also chosen by the churches to accompany Paul with this offering. Paul wants to avoid any criticism of how they administer this liberal gift. They are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the Lord's eyes but also in the eyes of people. They are also sending another brother who has often proved his zeal. Show these men the proof of your love and the reason for their pride in you, so that the churches can see it.

Key Takeaways

• Grace of Giving: Generosity is a spiritual gift
• Christ's Self-Giving: He became poor for our enrichment
• Willingness Matters: Give according to what you have
• Accountability: Handle money with integrity and transparency

Reflection Questions

• Do you view giving as a privilege or a burden?
• How does Christ's becoming poor for you shape your generosity?
• Are you giving yourself first, then your resources?