2 Corinthians 8:13-15 (WEL) I’m not suggesting that others have it easier, and you have it harder, but keeping it equal. 14 In order that your abundance may meet their need and their abundance may meet your need, so there will be fairness. 15 Just as it is written, “He who had gathered much had nothing left over, and he who had gathered little had no lack.” [Exodus 16:18]
V13 I’m not suggesting that others have it easier, and you have it harder, but keeping it equal.
Paul ensures that the Corinthians do not misunderstand what he is telling them. Paul is expressing the amount of money one gives is proportional to their income. Thus, it is equal. It is not the amount but the appropriate amount given with sincerity.
I know a brother long ago who gave so much money to help others that he had no food for a week until he got paid. People helped him and gave food, but the principle is to be careful. It is not the amount but the attitude.
V14 In order that your abundance may meet their need and their abundance may meet your need, so there will be fairness.
This is a Biblical principle that can apply to many things. If we have, we give. If we have time, we give time. If we have ability, we use it.
God blesses us, so let us bless others also. See Acts 20:35.
V15 Just as it is written, “He who had gathered much had nothing left over, and he who had gathered little had no lack.” [Exodus 16:18]
The same principle is taught in the Old Testament.
Comments:
(Ryrie Study Bible Notes) “Paul is saying that, though now it is the believers in Jerusalem who need help from the Corinthians, someday the reverse might be true. In either case, God will supply the need just as He did with the manna for Israel in the wilderness.”
(Zondervan King James Version Commentary, New Testament) “To make his point, the apostle quoted Exodus 16:18, about the children of Israel who had to collect the Lord’s supply of manna each morning as they traveled through the wilderness. Whether they collected a lot or a little, everyone had plenty. They “gathered every man according to his eating.” But if they gathered too much out of selfishness, and could not even eat it all, the manna spoiled and rotted before their eyes (see Exodus 16:19-20). Paul used this story to tell the church that they need not hoard their possessions. As with the children of Israel wandering in the wilderness, every blessing of food and even clothing came from the Lord. Too much could be a curse. Trusting God’s supply is a blessing.”
Still, we must remember to help those in need, not those who are lazy.
We learn:
- Principles of keeping and giving.
Questions:
- Do you give to help others?
- How is your attitude about helping others?