2 Corinthians 8:2
New International Version
In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity.

New Living Translation
They are being tested by many troubles, and they are very poor. But they are also filled with abundant joy, which has overflowed in rich generosity.

English Standard Version
for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part.

Berean Standard Bible
In the terrible ordeal they suffered, their abundant joy and deep poverty overflowed into rich generosity.

Berean Literal Bible
that in much proof of tribulation, the abundance of their joy and of their deep poverty abounded into the riches of their generosity.

King James Bible
How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality.

New King James Version
that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded in the riches of their liberality.

New American Standard Bible
that in a great ordeal of affliction their abundance of joy and their deep poverty overflowed in the wealth of their liberality.

NASB 1995
that in a great ordeal of affliction their abundance of joy and their deep poverty overflowed in the wealth of their liberality.

NASB 1977
that in a great ordeal of affliction their abundance of joy and their deep poverty overflowed in the wealth of their liberality.

Legacy Standard Bible
that in a great testing by affliction their abundance of joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the richness of their generosity.

Amplified Bible
for during an ordeal of severe distress, their abundant joy and their deep poverty [together] overflowed in the wealth of their lavish generosity.

Christian Standard Bible
During a severe trial brought about by affliction, their abundant joy and their extreme poverty overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
During a severe testing by affliction, their abundance of joy and their deep poverty overflowed into the wealth of their generosity.

American Standard Version
how that in much proof of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality.

Contemporary English Version
Although they were going through hard times and were very poor, they were glad to give generously.

English Revised Version
how that in much proof of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
While they were being severely tested by suffering, their overflowing joy, along with their extreme poverty, has made them even more generous.

Good News Translation
They have been severely tested by the troubles they went through; but their joy was so great that they were extremely generous in their giving, even though they are very poor.

International Standard Version
In spite of their terrible ordeal of suffering, their abundant joy and deep poverty have led them to be abundantly generous.

Majority Standard Bible
In the terrible ordeal they suffered, their abundant joy and deep poverty overflowed into rich generosity.

NET Bible
that during a severe ordeal of suffering, their abundant joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in the wealth of their generosity.

New Heart English Bible
how that in much proof of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded to the riches of their liberality.

Webster's Bible Translation
That in a great trial of affliction, the abundance of their joy, and their deep poverty, abounded to the riches of their liberality.

Weymouth New Testament
how, while passing through great trouble, their boundless joy even amid their deep poverty has overflowed to increase their generous liberality.

World English Bible
how in a severe ordeal of affliction, the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded to the riches of their generosity.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
because in much trial of tribulation the abundance of their joy, and their deep poverty, abounded to the riches of their liberality;

Berean Literal Bible
that in much proof of tribulation, the abundance of their joy and of their deep poverty abounded into the riches of their generosity.

Young's Literal Translation
because in much trial of tribulation the abundance of their joy, and their deep poverty, did abound to the riches of their liberality;

Smith's Literal Translation
That in much proof of pressure the abundance of their joy and their poverty according to depth abounded to the abundance of their simplicity.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
That in much experience of tribulation, they have had abundance of joy; and their very deep poverty hath abounded unto the riches of their simplicity.

Catholic Public Domain Version
For within a great experience of tribulation, they have had an abundance of joy, and their profound poverty has only increased the richness of their simplicity.

New American Bible
for in a severe test of affliction, the abundance of their joy and their profound poverty overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part.

New Revised Standard Version
for during a severe ordeal of affliction, their abundant joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
How that in a great trial of affliction, the abundance of their joy and their deep rooted poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
For in the many trials of their afflictions there was an abundance to their joy, and the depth of their poverty was made to superabound in the wealth of their generosity.
NT Translations
Anderson New Testament
that under an afflicting trial, their overflowing joy, and their deep poverty, abounded to the riches of their liberality;

Godbey New Testament
because in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality.

Haweis New Testament
that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy, and their deep poverty, hath more abounded to the riches of their liberality.

Mace New Testament
who tho' labouring under great trial of affliction, and extreme poverty, have notwithstanding with exceeding cheerfulness contributed very liberally: being forward of themselves to the utmost of their power,

Weymouth New Testament
how, while passing through great trouble, their boundless joy even amid their deep poverty has overflowed to increase their generous liberality.

Worrell New Testament
that, in much trial of tribulation, the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded to the riches of their liberality.

Worsley New Testament
how in a great trial of affliction, their abundant chearfulness and their deep poverty, hath munificently shewn the riches of their bounty.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Generosity Commended
1Now, brothers, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the churches of Macedonia. 2 In the terrible ordeal they suffered, their abundant joy and deep poverty overflowed into rich generosity. 3For I testify that they gave according to their ability and even beyond it. Of their own accord,…

Cross References
Acts 11:29
So the disciples, each according to his ability, decided to send relief to the brothers living in Judea.

Romans 15:26
For Macedonia and Achaia were pleased to make a contribution for the poor among the saints in Jerusalem.

Philippians 1:29
For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for Him,

James 1:2-3
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, / because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.

1 Thessalonians 1:6
And you became imitators of us and of the Lord when you welcomed the message with the joy of the Holy Spirit, in spite of your great suffering.

1 Peter 1:6-7
In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in various trials / so that the proven character of your faith—more precious than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

Hebrews 10:34
You sympathized with those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property, knowing that you yourselves had a better and permanent possession.

Romans 5:3-5
Not only that, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; / perseverance, character; and character, hope. / And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His love into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us.

1 Peter 4:13
But rejoice that you share in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed at the revelation of His glory.

1 Thessalonians 3:3-4
so that none of you would be shaken by these trials. For you know that we are destined for this. / Indeed, when we were with you, we kept warning you that we would suffer persecution; and as you know, it has come to pass.

Philippians 4:10-19
Now I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. / I am not saying this out of need, for I have learned to be content regardless of my circumstances. / I know how to live humbly, and I know how to abound. In any and every situation I have learned the secret of being filled and being hungry, of having plenty and having need. ...

1 John 3:17
If anyone with earthly possessions sees his brother in need, but withholds his compassion from him, how can the love of God abide in him?

Galatians 2:10
They only asked us to remember the poor, the very thing I was eager to do.

Luke 21:1-4
Then Jesus looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, / and He saw a poor widow put in two small copper coins. / “Truly I tell you,” He said, “this poor widow has put in more than all the others. ...

Matthew 5:11-12
Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. / Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets before you.


Treasury of Scripture

How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded to the riches of their liberality.

in.

1 Thessalonians 1:6
And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost:

1 Thessalonians 2:14
For ye, brethren, became followers of the churches of God which in Judaea are in Christ Jesus: for ye also have suffered like things of your own countrymen, even as they have of the Jews:

1 Thessalonians 3:3,4
That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto…

the abundance.

Nehemiah 8:10-12
Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength…

Acts 2:45,46
And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need…

their deep.

Mark 12:42-44
And there came a certain poor widow, and she threw in two mites, which make a farthing…

Luke 21:1-4
And he looked up, and saw the rich men casting their gifts into the treasury…

James 2:5
Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?

the riches.

2 Corinthians 6:10
As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.

2 Corinthians 9:11,13
Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God…

Deuteronomy 15:4
Save when there shall be no poor among you; for the LORD shall greatly bless thee in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee for an inheritance to possess it:

liberality.

2 Corinthians 1:12
For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward.

Romans 12:8
Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.

Jump to Previous
Abounded Abundance Affliction Amid Boundless Deep Extreme Generosity Generous Great Greater Greatest Increase Joy Liberality Need Ordeal Overflowed Overflowing Part Passing Poverty Proof Rich Riches Severe Test Trial Trouble Undergoing Wealth
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Abounded Abundance Affliction Amid Boundless Deep Extreme Generosity Generous Great Greater Greatest Increase Joy Liberality Need Ordeal Overflowed Overflowing Part Passing Poverty Proof Rich Riches Severe Test Trial Trouble Undergoing Wealth
2 Corinthians 8
1. He stirs them to a generous gift for the poor saints at Jerusalem, by the example of the Macedonians;
7. by commendation of their former forwardness;
9. by the example of Christ;
14. and by the spiritual profit that shall redound to themselves thereby;
16. commending to them the integrity and willingness of Titus, and those other brothers.














In the terrible ordeal they suffered
This phrase highlights the severe trials faced by the Macedonian churches. The Greek word for "ordeal" (δοκιμή, dokimē) implies a testing or proving of character. Historically, the Macedonian region was known for its economic hardships and persecution, especially under Roman rule. Despite these challenges, the believers' faith was tested and proven genuine, serving as a testament to their steadfastness in Christ. This context reminds us that trials can refine and strengthen our faith, producing perseverance and character.

their abundant joy
The juxtaposition of "abundant joy" with "terrible ordeal" is striking. The Greek word for "joy" (χαρά, chara) suggests a deep, spiritual joy that transcends circumstances. This joy is rooted in their relationship with Christ and the hope of the Gospel. Historically, joy in suffering is a recurring theme in the New Testament, reflecting the early Christians' understanding that their ultimate hope and treasure were in heaven, not in earthly circumstances. This joy is a fruit of the Spirit, demonstrating the transformative power of the Gospel in believers' lives.

and deep poverty
The phrase "deep poverty" underscores the extreme financial hardship faced by the Macedonian believers. The Greek word for "poverty" (πτωχεία, ptōcheia) indicates a state of destitution. Despite their lack of material wealth, their spiritual richness was evident. This reflects the biblical principle that true wealth is not measured by material possessions but by spiritual abundance. Historically, the early church often consisted of the poor and marginalized, yet their faith and generosity were profound, challenging modern believers to reconsider the true source of wealth and security.

overflowed into rich generosity
The imagery of "overflowed" suggests an abundance that cannot be contained. The Greek word for "overflowed" (περισσεύω, perisseuō) conveys the idea of exceeding expectations. Despite their poverty, the Macedonians gave generously, demonstrating that generosity is not dependent on wealth but on the heart's condition. The term "rich generosity" (πλοῦτος τῆς ἁπλότητος, ploutos tēs haplotētos) highlights the sincerity and liberality of their giving. This reflects the biblical teaching that God values the heart's intent over the amount given. Historically, this act of generosity served as a powerful witness to the unity and love within the body of Christ, encouraging believers to give sacrificially and joyfully, trusting in God's provision.

(2) In a great trial of affliction.--We do not know what is specially referred to, but a community of Christians in a heathen city was always exposed to trials of this kind, and the temper shown before by the rulers at Philippi and the Jews of Thessalonica (Acts 16:19-20; Acts 17:5-6; 1Thessalonians 2:14) makes it almost certain that they would carry on at least a petty persecution with more or less persistency. The "poverty" at Philippi may possibly be connected with the preponderance of women in the Church there, as indicated in Acts 16:13. In the absence of the bread-winners of a household, Christian women in a Graeco-Roman city would find but scanty means of subsistence. In part, however, the churches were but sharers in a widely-spread distress. Macedonia and Achaia never recovered from the three wars between Caesar and Pompeius, between the Triumvirs and Brutus and Cassius, and between Augustus and Antonius. Under Tiberius, they petitioned for a diminution of their burdens, and were accordingly transferred for a time from the jurisdiction of the senate to that of the emperor, as involving a less heavy taxation.

Unto the riches of their liberality.--The primary meaning of the word, as in 2Corinthians 1:12 (where see Note), is simplicity, or singleness of purpose. That singleness, when shown in gifts, leads to "liberality," and so the word had acquired the secondary sense in which it seems here to be used. Tyndale, and Cranmer, however, give "singleness," and the Rhemish version "simplicity." "Liberality" first appears in that of Geneva. . . .

Verse 2. - In a great trial of affliction; rather, in much testing of affliction; i.e. in an affliction which put to the proof their Christian character. "They were not simply afflicted," says St. Chrysostom, "but in such a way as also to become approved by their endurance." (For the word rendered "trial," see Romans 5:4, and in this Epistle, 2 Corinthians 2:9; 2 Corinthians 9:13; 2 Corinthians 13:3.) "Affliction" seems to have befallen the Churches of Macedonia very heavily (1 Thessalonians 1:6; 1 Thessalonians 2:14), chiefly through the jealousy of the Jews, who excited the hatred of the Gentiles (Acts 16:20; Acts 17:5, 13). The abundance of their joy. Another reference to joy in sadness (see on 2 Corinthians 7:4). There is not the least necessity to understand the verb "is" or "was" after this clause. "The abundance... abounded" is indeed a pleonasm, but is not at all unlike the style of St. Paul. He means to say that their joy overflowed their affliction, and their liberality overflowed their poverty (Mark 12:44). Their deep poverty; literally, their pauperism to the depth; their abysmal penury. Though they were βαθύπτωχοι, they showed themselves in generosity to be βαθυπλουτοι. Stanley refers to Arnold's 'Roman Commonwealth,' where he mentions that the provinces of Macedonia and Achaia, which had suffered greatly in the three civil wars, appealed successfully to Tiberius for a diminution of their burdens. The gift of the Macedonians was like the widow's mite (Luke 21:3, 4, where similar words occur - perisseuo, husterema). Of their liberality; rather, of their singleness of purpose or simplicity (Ephesians 6:5). The "grace" and single-heartedness to which he alludes showed themselves in liberality.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Greek
In
ἐν (en)
Preposition
Strong's 1722: In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc.

[the] terrible
πολλῇ (pollē)
Adjective - Dative Feminine Singular
Strong's 4183: Much, many; often.

ordeal
δοκιμῇ (dokimē)
Noun - Dative Feminine Singular
Strong's 1382: A trial, proof; tried, approved character. From the same as dokimos; test; by implication, trustiness.

they suffered,
θλίψεως (thlipseōs)
Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular
Strong's 2347: Persecution, affliction, distress, tribulation. From thlibo; pressure.

their
αὐτῶν (autōn)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive Masculine 3rd Person Plural
Strong's 846: He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.

abundant
περισσεία (perisseia)
Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular
Strong's 4050: Abundance, superfluity. From perisseuo; surplusage, i.e. Superabundance.

joy
χαρᾶς (charas)
Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular
Strong's 5479: Joy, gladness, a source of joy. From chairo; cheerfulness, i.e. Calm delight.

and
καὶ (kai)
Conjunction
Strong's 2532: And, even, also, namely.

deep
βάθους (bathous)
Noun - Genitive Neuter Singular
Strong's 899: From the same as bathus; profundity, i.e. extent; mystery.

poverty
πτωχεία (ptōcheia)
Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular
Strong's 4432: Poverty, destitution. From ptocheuo; beggary, i.e. Indigence.

overflowed
ἐπερίσσευσεν (eperisseusen)
Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 4052: From perissos; to superabound, be in excess, be superfluous; also to cause to superabound or excel.

into
εἰς (eis)
Preposition
Strong's 1519: A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.

rich
πλοῦτος (ploutos)
Noun - Accusative Neuter Singular
Strong's 4149: From the base of pletho; wealth, i.e. money, possessions, or abundance, richness, valuable bestowment.

generosity.
ἁπλότητος (haplotētos)
Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular
Strong's 572: Simplicity, sincerity, purity, graciousness. From haplous; singleness, i.e. sincerity, or generosity.


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NT Letters: 2 Corinthians 8:2 How that in much proof of affliction (2 Cor. 2C iiC 2Cor ii cor iicor)
2 Corinthians 8:1
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