Translations
Modern
But I am sending the brothers in order that our boasting about you in this matter should not prove empty, but that you will be prepared, just as I said.
Traditional
Yet have I sent the brethren, lest our boasting of you should be in vain in this behalf; that, as I said, ye may be ready:
Literal
But I sent the brothers so that our boasting that is on behalf of you in this matter should not be made void, so that you may be prepared, as I have been saying—
Latin
Misi autem fratres: ut ne quod gloriamur de vobis, evacuetur in hac parte, ut (quemadmodum dixi) parati sitis:
Original
Greek
English
But I am sending the brothers in order that our boasting about you in this matter should not prove empty, but that you will be prepared, just as I said.
Notes
Two reasons encourage the spirit of love in giving:
to follow the example of the Macedonians, who were generous despite their poverty (9:2); and
to avoid embarrassing Paul or themselves, as he had praised the Corinthians' generosity to the Macedonians (9:3–5).
To ensure the collection at Corinth is ready on time, Paul will send delegates (8:16–24) ahead to prepare the promised gift.
Theme notes and profiles
Parallels
Glossary
Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Boast First Letter to the Corinthians Macedonia Second Letter to the Corinthians
Topics
Beneficence: General Scriptures Concerning Emulation: General Scriptures Concerning Liberality in Corinth Tact: Paul in Stimulating Benevolent Giving