Introduction

Second Corinthians 9 continues the theme of generous giving. Paul encourages the Corinthians to give generously and cheerfully, promising that God will abundantly supply all their needs and multiply their gifts for His glory.

Ready to Give (verses 1-5)

There is no need for Paul to write about this service to the Lord's people. He knows their eagerness to help, and he has been boasting about it to the Macedonians, telling them that since last year Achaia was ready to give. Their enthusiasm has stirred most of the Macedonians to action. But Paul is sending the brothers so that his boasting about them will not prove hollow—so they will be ready, as he said they would be. If any Macedonians come with Paul and find them unprepared, Paul—not to say anything about them—would be ashamed of having been so confident. So he thought it necessary to urge the brothers to visit ahead of time and arrange their generous gift in advance. Then it will be ready as a generous gift, not as one grudgingly given.

• Boasted Eagerness: Paul promoted their willingness
• Mutual Stirring: Their zeal encouraged others
• Prepared Giving: Plan ahead so giving is generous, not grudging

Sowing and Reaping (verses 6-11)

Remember this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each should give what they have decided in their heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless them abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all they need, they will abound in every good work. As it is written: "They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever." Now He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase their store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of their righteousness. They will be enriched in every way so that they can be generous on every occasion, and through them their generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.

• Generous Sowing: Give liberally; reap liberally
• Cheerful Giving: God loves joy in generosity
• Abundant Supply: God provides all you need to abound in good works
• Increased Harvest: He multiplies what you give

Thanksgiving to God (verses 12-15)

This service they perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord's people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. Because of the service by which they have proved themselves, others will praise God for their obedience that accompanies their confession of the gospel of Christ, and for their generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you. Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!

Key Takeaways

• Sow Generously: The harvest matches the sowing
• Cheerful Givers: God loves joyful generosity
• God Supplies: He gives seed to sow and increases the harvest
• Thanksgiving Overflow: Generosity produces praise to God

Reflection Questions

• Do you give reluctantly, under compulsion, or cheerfully?
• How has God supplied your needs so you can be generous?
• Does your giving produce thanksgiving to God?