2 Corinthians 9:5

So I thought it necessary to urge the brothers to visit you beforehand and make arrangements for the bountiful gift you had promised. This way, your gift will be prepared generously and not begrudgingly.

Study Bible

So I thought it necessary
The phrase indicates Paul's personal judgment and discernment. The Greek word for "necessary" (ἀναγκαῖον, anankaios) implies a sense of obligation or compulsion. Paul is not acting on a whim but feels a strong moral duty to ensure the Corinthians' commitment to their promise. This reflects the importance of intentionality and responsibility in Christian stewardship.

to urge the brothers
The term "urge" (παρακαλέω, parakaleó) is often translated as "to exhort" or "to encourage." It carries a sense of coming alongside someone to offer support and motivation. The "brothers" likely refer to trusted companions of Paul, possibly Titus and others, who are tasked with facilitating the collection. This highlights the communal aspect of the early church, where mutual encouragement and accountability were vital.

to visit you in advance
Paul's strategy involves preparation and foresight. The Greek word for "visit" (προέρχομαι, proerchomai) suggests going ahead or preceding. By sending the brothers ahead, Paul ensures that the Corinthians are ready and that their gift is prepared. This reflects the biblical principle of planning and readiness in giving, ensuring that acts of generosity are thoughtful and deliberate.

and complete the arrangements
The phrase underscores the importance of organization and follow-through. The Greek word for "complete" (καταρτίζω, katartizó) means to prepare fully or to make ready. Paul wants to ensure that everything is in place for the collection, emphasizing the need for diligence and thoroughness in ministry efforts.

for the generous gift
The term "generous gift" (εὐλογία, eulogia) can also be translated as "blessing." This indicates that the act of giving is not merely a transaction but a blessing both for the giver and the receiver. The use of "eulogia" suggests that the gift is abundant and given with a spirit of liberality, reflecting the grace of God.

you had promised
The Corinthians had previously committed to this collection, and Paul is reminding them of their promise. The Greek word for "promised" (προεπαγγέλλομαι, proepangellomai) implies a prior pledge or commitment. This highlights the importance of integrity and faithfulness in fulfilling one's commitments, especially in the context of supporting the work of the church.

Then it will be ready
The readiness of the gift is crucial. The Greek word for "ready" (ἑτοίμος, hetoimos) suggests preparedness and availability. Paul wants the Corinthians to be prepared so that their gift is not given hastily or under compulsion but as a deliberate act of worship and service.

as a generous gift
Reiterating the nature of the gift as "generous" emphasizes the spirit in which it should be given. The repetition of "eulogia" underscores the idea that giving is an act of grace, reflecting God's own generosity towards us.

not as one grudgingly given
The contrast here is stark. The Greek word for "grudgingly" (πλεονεξία, pleonexia) can also mean "covetousness" or "greed." Paul warns against giving that is reluctant or motivated by selfishness. True Christian giving should be free from reluctance or compulsion, embodying the joy and freedom found in Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
- The apostle who wrote the letter to the Corinthians, encouraging them to prepare their promised gift.

2. The Brothers
- Likely Titus and other companions of Paul, sent to ensure the Corinthians' readiness in giving.

3. The Corinthians
- The recipients of the letter, a Christian community in Corinth, encouraged to fulfill their promise of generosity.

4. The Generous Gift
- A collection intended to support the impoverished believers in Jerusalem.

5. Jerusalem
- The city where the needy believers resided, who were to benefit from the Corinthians' generosity.

Teaching Points

The Heart of Giving
True generosity stems from a willing heart, not from compulsion or reluctance. Reflect on your motivations for giving.

Preparation and Planning
Just as Paul urged the Corinthians to prepare their gift in advance, we should plan our giving thoughtfully and intentionally.

Community Support
The early church exemplified mutual support. Consider how you can contribute to the needs of your local and global Christian community.

Fulfillment of Promises
The Corinthians had made a promise to give. Reflect on the importance of keeping commitments, especially in the context of supporting others.

Joyful Giving
Giving should be a joyful act, not a burdensome obligation. Cultivate a cheerful attitude towards generosity.

Bible Study Questions

1. What steps can you take to ensure that your giving is done willingly and not grudgingly?

2. How does the example of the Macedonian churches in 2 Corinthians 8 inspire you to give, even in times of personal difficulty?

3. In what ways can you prepare and plan your giving to be more intentional and impactful?

4. How can you contribute to the needs of your local church or Christian community, following the example of the early church?

5. Reflect on a promise you have made to support someone or a cause. How can you ensure that you fulfill this commitment joyfully?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Corinthians 8:1-5
Paul previously commends the Macedonian churches for their generosity despite their poverty, setting an example for the Corinthians.

Acts 11:27-30
The early church's practice of sending aid to believers in need, illustrating the communal support among Christians.

Proverbs 11:25
The principle that a generous person will prosper, reinforcing the blessing of giving.

Luke 6:38
Jesus' teaching on giving, promising that it will be given back to the giver in good measure.

Galatians 6:9-10
Encouragement to do good to all, especially to those in the household of faith, aligning with the purpose of the Corinthians' gift.