2 Corinithians 8

Verses 1-5 The Generosity of the Macedonian Churches
  a. Introduction of the Macedonians' grace despite affliction (v1).
  b. Their overflowing joy and extreme poverty resulting in rich generosity (v2).
  c. They gave beyond their means and did it voluntarily (v3).
  d. They pleaded for the privilege to contribute to the saints (v4).
  e. They gave themselves first to the Lord and then to Paul (v5).

Verses 6-9 Titus and His Commission
Titus's previous act prompted by Paul (v6).
The Corinthians are excelling in various ways – faith, speech, knowledge, etc. (v7).
Paul's challenge for the Corinthians to excel in this act of grace also (v8).
The example of Christ's generosity – though He was rich, He became poor for our sake (v9).

Verses 10-15 Advice on Completing Their Collection
a. Paul's advice for them to finish what they started a year ago (v10).
b. They should complete the collection with what they have, not with what they don't (v11).
c. The aim is for equality among the believers (v13-14).
d. Citing the example of manna collection in Exodus to emphasize equality (v15).

Verses 16-24 Commendation of the Collection's Representatives
a. Thanks to God for putting concern for the Corinthians in Titus’s heart (v16).
b. Titus is not only welcomed by Paul but is also eager on his own behalf to go to the Corinthians (v17).
c. Introduction of the brother who is praised in all the churches for his service to the gospel (v18).
d. Mention of this brother being chosen by the churches to accompany Paul and the gift to Jerusalem (v19).
e. Paul and his companions aim to avoid any blame in handling this generous gift (v20-21).
f. Introduction of their other companion, who is tested and found earnest in many matters (v22).
g. Titus’s love and the proven worth of the two companions (v23-24).

Historical points for the context of 2 Corinthians 8

Paul's Relationship with the Corinthians: The church in Corinth was one of the major communities founded by the Apostle Paul during his missionary journeys. However, the relationship between Paul and the Corinthians was not without its tensions. Prior to the writing of 2 Corinthians, Paul had already written a letter (now lost), then 1 Corinthians, and a "severe letter" (which may be a part of 2 Corinthians or another lost letter). These letters addressed various theological, moral, and relational issues within the Corinthian community.

Collection for the Jerusalem Church: One of the significant projects Paul was working on during his ministry was a collection of funds for the Jerusalem church. The Jerusalem church, being in the heart of Judea, faced economic hardships due to various socio-economic and political pressures. Paul saw the collection not just as a charitable act but also as a way to unify the Jewish and Gentile factions within the early Christian movement. This collection was a tangible way to show mutual care and unity within the body of Christ.

The Macedonian Example: In 2 Corinthians 8, Paul presents the churches of Macedonia (which likely included communities like those in Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea) as an example of sacrificial giving. Historically, Macedonia was not an affluent region, and yet, the Macedonian believers gave generously to the collection for Jerusalem. They did so amidst "a severe test of affliction" and "extreme poverty" (v. 2), which would have resonated with the Corinthians, challenging them to display a similar spirit of generosity.

Paul's Legitimacy and Integrity: By the time of writing 2 Corinthians, some within the Corinthian community were questioning Paul's apostolic authority and legitimacy. This context of suspicion might be why Paul is at pains to ensure transparency regarding the collection's handling. He sends trusted associates like Titus and provides commendations for his companions, emphasizing their integrity and ensuring that no one can accuse them of misusing the funds.

The Greco-Roman Cultural Background: In the ancient Mediterranean world, benefaction (the act of giving benefits) was a significant cultural practice. Wealthy individuals would give to cities or communities, and in return, they would receive honor, gratitude, and sometimes public commendations. Against this backdrop, Paul's emphasis on giving not for personal honor but for the well-being of the community and the glory of God would have been countercultural.

Paul's Appeal through Titus and Generosity (2 Cor 8:1-24)

A(8:1-6) Titus's Initial Endeavor: "Titus, who first brought this gracious initiative to you, we encouraged him to see it through to its completion." (8:6) (Τίτον)

B(8:7-9) Sacrificial Giving: "Christ, rich in all ways, chose poverty for the benefit of you all." (8:9) (ἐπτώχευσεν)

C(8:10) Beneficial Action: "This undertaking will be beneficial for you." (8:10)

B'(8:11-15) Balanced Provision: "The abundance you have now should meet their deficiencies." (8:14) (ὑστέρημα)

A'(8:16-24) Titus's Genuine Concern: "God placed in Titus the same genuine care for you." (8:16) (Τίτου)

Themes Highlighted:

• A: Titus's role and commitment.
• B: The principle of giving, even sacrificially.
• C: The outcome or the result of their action.
• B': The purpose of their abundance.
• A': The sincere concern of Titus for the Corinthians.

Verse 1 - KJV Word: "grace" | Greek Word: "χάρις" (charis). While "grace" is often understood as unmerited favor from God, in this context, it can also imply the generous act or gift itself, inspired by God's favor. It's not just about God's favor to us but the resultant action in us.

Verse 2 - KJV Word: "liberality" | Greek Word: "ἁπλότης" (haplotēs). The term can mean "simplicity" or "sincerity." It's about genuine, sincere generosity, not just the act of giving.

Verse 4 - KJV Word: "fellowship" | Greek Word: "κοινωνία" (koinōnia). Often translated as "fellowship" or "communion," this term conveys a deep sense of shared community or partnership. The Macedonians weren't just giving money; they were participating in the shared mission of the gospel.

Verse 9 - KJV Word: "poor" | Greek Word: "ἐπτώχευσεν" (eptōcheusen). More than just being financially or materially "poor," this term in the context refers to Christ's voluntary act of self-emptying, sacrificing His heavenly riches for our sake.

Verse 12 - KJV Word: "willing" | Greek Word: "προθυμία" (prothymia). This word carries a sense of eagerness or readiness. It's about a heart that is eager to give, even before the act itself.

Verse 13 - KJV Word: "ease" | Greek Word: "ἀνέσεως" (anesis). It's not just about comfort but a release from tension or pressure. Paul's desire is for equality that alleviates burdens.

Verse 21 - KJV Word: "honest" | Greek Word: "καλός" (kalos). Beyond just honesty, it refers to what is honorable, good, or commendable. Paul wants their actions to be seen as honorable in everyone's eyes.