2 Corinthians 9:15

Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!

Study Bible

Thanks be to God
This phrase begins with an expression of gratitude, which is a central theme in Christian theology. The Greek word for "thanks" is "χάρις" (charis), which is often translated as "grace" or "favor." This indicates that thanksgiving is not merely a polite response but a recognition of God's grace and favor bestowed upon humanity. In the historical context of the early church, gratitude was a vital response to the manifold blessings received through Christ, and it served as a unifying force among believers. The phrase also emphasizes the personal relationship between believers and God, acknowledging Him as the source of all good gifts.

for His indescribable gift!
The term "indescribable" comes from the Greek word "ἀνεκδιήγητος" (anekdiēgētos), which means beyond words or inexpressible. This suggests that the gift referred to is so profound and magnificent that human language cannot fully capture its essence. The "gift" is widely understood to be Jesus Christ Himself, whose life, death, and resurrection provide salvation and eternal life to believers. In the scriptural context, this gift is the culmination of God's redemptive plan, a theme that runs throughout the Bible. Historically, the early Christians would have understood this as the ultimate expression of God's love and grace, surpassing all previous covenants and promises. This phrase invites believers to reflect on the magnitude of God's generosity and to respond with heartfelt worship and thanksgiving.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of 2 Corinthians, Paul is writing to the church in Corinth to encourage generosity and express gratitude for God's gift.

2. Corinth
A major city in ancient Greece, known for its wealth and commerce, but also for its moral challenges. The church in Corinth was diverse and faced various issues, which Paul addresses in his letters.

3. The Church in Corinth
The recipients of Paul's letter, they were a group of believers navigating their faith in a complex cultural environment.

4. God
The giver of the "indescribable gift," which is central to Paul's message of gratitude and generosity.

5. Jesus Christ
The ultimate "indescribable gift" from God, whose life, death, and resurrection provide salvation and eternal life.

Teaching Points

Gratitude for God's Gift
Recognize and express gratitude for the gift of Jesus Christ, which is beyond human description.

Understanding the Indescribable Gift
Reflect on the magnitude and implications of God's gift, which encompasses salvation, grace, and eternal life.

Generosity as a Response
Let the recognition of God's generosity inspire us to be generous in our own lives, both materially and spiritually.

Living in Light of the Gift
Live a life that reflects the transformative power of receiving God's gift, showing love and grace to others.

Sharing the Gift
Be proactive in sharing the message of God's indescribable gift with others, fulfilling the Great Commission.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding Jesus as God's "indescribable gift" impact your daily life and faith journey?

2. In what ways can you express gratitude for God's gift in your personal and community life?

3. How does the concept of God's gift in 2 Corinthians 9:15 connect with the message of salvation in John 3:16?

4. What are some practical ways you can demonstrate generosity in response to God's generosity?

5. How can you share the message of God's indescribable gift with those around you, and what challenges might you face in doing so?

Connections to Other Scriptures

John 3:16
This verse highlights God's love and the gift of His Son, which is the foundation of the "indescribable gift" Paul refers to.

Romans 6:23
Discusses the gift of God as eternal life through Jesus Christ, emphasizing the grace and generosity of God.

Ephesians 2:8-9
Speaks about salvation as a gift from God, not by works, reinforcing the concept of grace.

James 1:17
Describes every good and perfect gift as coming from above, linking to the divine nature of the gift Paul mentions.

Isaiah 9:6
Prophesies the coming of Jesus as a gift to humanity, connecting Old Testament prophecy with New Testament fulfillment.