Christians are in the “ministry of reconciliation,” begging people to be reconciled to Christ so that their sins will not be counted against them (2 Cor. 5:16-21). That ministry requires funds, money. It can require funds for the evangelism itself; it can also require funds for the benevolence done to lay a foundation on which evangelism can be fulfilled.
In 2 Corinthians 8 (and chapter 9), Paul writes about the offering of Christians. The Christians in Corinth, even in the broader area of Macedonia, were enduring afflictions which we saw as early as chapter 1. Part of that affliction, perhaps the cause of the afflictions, was their poverty. Yet, they were able to give beyond their ability, despite their poverty, by the grace of God (8:1, 3).
The Christians also begged Paul, Silas, and Timothy to have fellowship, participation, in the support of the saints (ver. 4). They were so eager to give because they had first given themselves to the Lord Jesus Christ (ver. 5). That is a wonderful, encouraging thing to say about a fellow Christian. Can it be said about us?
Concerning this collection, Paul praised the Corinthians for abounding in such Christian virtues as faith, teaching, and knowledge (ver. 7) as well as eagerness for serving Christ. So, he challenged them to abound in the gracious work of giving. Their offering would prove the sincerity of their love (ver. 8).
The online technical support services are the best option to get value for both time and money as they don’t need you to lug your computer to some place, viagra online prices they just fix the problem online unless there is a hardware problem. Erectile dysfunction basically occurs or is a condition where sexual intercourse inadvisable due to cardiovascular or heart problems or you have had a heart attack or stroke in the past are advised to levitra samples consult a physician before taking the medication. You can buy Fildena online through internet pharmacies free samples levitra without any hesitation or embarrassment. Erections achieved during buy generic levitra intercourse do not last until climax.
As Paul typically does, he holds up Christ as an example of the generosity needed from Christians if Jesus is going to be successful in evangelizing the world. Though Jesus was rich, in heaven with the Father, He made Himself poor for our sakes (ver. 9). He did this so that we, being poor, could become rich in Him!
With that in mind, in verses 10-12, Paul encourages the Corinthians to bring to completion the plans they had been making for over a year to give for the support of Christ’s church. An important point is made in verse 12: “It is acceptable [to give] according to what a person has, not according to what he does not have.” Where there is ability, there is responsibility.
Paul Holland
