“Jesus himself said; ‘It is more blessed to give than receive.’” Acts 20:35
Fearing that the Corinthian brethren were losing their enthusiasm for helping the poor, Paul encouraged them again with the fol-lowing tips about giving (II Corinthians 8: and 9:).
8: 3 Others, like the Macedonians were giving generously.
8: 5 Those Christians gave themselves to the Lord first.
8:12 God asks us to give from what we have; not more.
8:24 Their giving showed the proof of their love
9: 6 You reap what you sow.
- Sow sparingly; reap sparingly
- Sow generously; reap generously
9: 7 Give what you decide in your heart.
- Don’t give reluctantly.
- Don’t give under compulsion.
- God loves a cheerful giver.
9:10 God supplies seed to the sower.
As a result of the gifts from the Macedonian and Corinthian churches, Paul was able to accomplish his mission to provide re-lief for the poor saints in Jerusalem (Acts 24:17).
Ian Mostert
Pulpit Minister – retired