2 Corinthians 8:1-11 ▼

1 Now, brothers (and sisters), we want you⁺ to know about the grace that God {Theou} has given the churches {ekklēsiais} of Macedonia.

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

3 For I testify that they gave according to their ability {dynamin} and even beyond it. Of their own accord,

4 they earnestly pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing {koinōnian} in this service {diakonias} to the saints (holy ones).

5 And not only did they do as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord {Kyriō} and then to us, through the will of God {Theou}.

6 So we urged Titus (title of honor) to help complete your⁺ act of grace, just as he had started it.

7 But just as you⁺ excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness, and in the love {agapē} we inspired in you⁺ (in your love for us) see that you⁺ also excel in this grace of giving.

8 I am not giving a command, but I am testing the sincerity of your⁺ love {agapēs} through the earnestness of others.

9 For you⁺ know the grace of our Lord {Kyriou} Jesus (YHWH saves) Christ (the Anointed One), that though He was rich, yet for your⁺ sake He became poor, so that you⁺ through His poverty might become rich.

10 And this is my opinion about what is helpful for you⁺ in this matter: Last year you were the first not only to give, but even to have such a desire.

11 Now finish the work, so that you may complete it with the same eager desire, according to your means.