2 Corinthians 8:8-12 (WEL) I’m not giving an order, but because of the eagerness of others and proving the sincerity of your love. 9 For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that for you he—being rich—became poor, in order that you might become rich through his poverty. 10 So this is the advice I give because it is best for you who have already started a year ago, not only to do this but also to want to do it. 11 Now, complete this work with the same eager determination you started with and finishing it according to what you have. 12 For if there is a willingness at first, the gift is acceptable according to what a person has, not what he doesn’t have.
V8 I’m not giving an order, but because of the eagerness of others and proving the sincerity of your love.
Paul is not ordering this, for Christian leaders must not be tyrants. Paul wants them to complete their giving because others are eager to do so. Giving is a form of fellowship and Christian love. Compare Proverbs 19:17, 1 Timothy 6:18-19, and Hebrews 13:16.
V9 For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that for you he—being rich—became poor, in order that you might become rich through his poverty.
Jesus gave all by divesting in the glory and honor, comfort, and unlimitedness. He became a human—100% God and 100% male. He was poor but brought spiritual riches of salvation, forgiveness, restoration of fellowship, and all spiritual blessings (Ephesians 1:3) to those who believe in His name. Compare Matthew 8:20.
V10 So this is the advice I give because it is best for you who have already started a year ago, not only to do this but also to want to do it.
Paul is encouraging them to continue and complete their giving. Principle: what we start, we should finish.
When we give advice to anyone it must be:
- aligned with the Scriptures
- with the correct motive and purpose (we can’t be selfish)
- after prayer for wisdom (we don’t know the other’s heart or circumstances perfectly)
- After listening without interruption to understand the issue (and clarify when needed).
- And continued support as needed.
- If a crime has been committed, it must be reported to authorities. This includes abuse of all types.
- Whatever advice we give others, we must also follow (we can’t be hypocrites).
V11 Now, complete this work with the same eager determination you started with and finishing it according to what you have.
Paul continues his encouragement to motivate them. The principle is to finish what we start in attitude and action. They have collected some money already, so they are to give within their means.
V12 For if there is eagerness, the gift is acceptable according to what a person has, not what he doesn’t have.
You might not have much, but God recognizes it. It is not the amount but the motive and willingness. Compare Luke 21:1-4.
We learn:
- The principles of giving.
- The principle of finishing what we begin.
- The blessings of giving, not the amount.
Questions:
- Do you give to help those brothers and sisters in your fellowship who are in need?
- Do you give it as a love offering to God?