2 Corinthians 8:4

Generosity Commended · 2 Corinthians 8:1–15
Read 2 Corinthians 8

Translations

Modern
…they earnestly pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints.
Traditional
Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.
Literal
…with much entreaty they were imploring us for the grace and the fellowship of the service to the saints.
Latin
…cum multa exhortatione obsecrantes nos gratiam, et communicationem ministerii, quod fit in sanctos.

Original

Greek
English
…they earnestly pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints.

Notes

Paul now focuses on collecting funds for the Jerusalem church (8:4; 9:1). This relief fund aimed to help the poor believers in the holy city (Acts 11:27–30; Romans 15:25–27, 31; Galatians 2:10). Paul had previously given instructions about this matter (1 Corinthians 16:1–2). Now it was time to gather the funds (2 Corinthians 8:6). Paul hoped this gift from non-Jewish congregations to the Jewish church would strengthen ties between the two groups in the early Christian community.

Theme notes and profiles

Paul (Saul) Christian Giving

Parallels

Philippians 4:10–20

Glossary

Alms Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Body of Christ First Letter to the Corinthians Second Letter to the Corinthians Titus, Letter to

Topics

Alms: Giving: The Early Christians Beneficence: General Scriptures Concerning Emulation: General Scriptures Concerning Liberality: Extraordinary - Exemplified: Churches of Macedonia Macedonia: The Congregation In, Sends Contributions to the Poor Saints in Jerusalem Poor: Kindness to Congregations Poor: Kindness to Congregations of Macedonia and Achaia Religious Zeal: Exemplified Tact: Paul in Stimulating Benevolent Giving The Macedonian Empire: Liberality of the Churches of The Poor: Regard For: Churches of Macedonia and Achaia