2 Corinthians 8:10
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.
And this is my opinion
The Apostle Paul begins this verse by offering his personal judgment or advice. The Greek word used here is "gnōmē," which implies a thoughtful and considered opinion rather than a command. This reflects Paul's pastoral heart, as he guides the Corinthians with wisdom and care, respecting their autonomy while encouraging them towards spiritual maturity.

about what is beneficial for you
Paul is concerned with what is advantageous or profitable for the Corinthians. The Greek word "sympheron" suggests something that brings together or contributes to the well-being of the community. Paul’s focus is not merely on financial giving but on the spiritual growth and unity that result from generous actions.

in this matter
The "matter" refers to the collection for the saints in Jerusalem, a significant project that Paul was organizing. This collection was not just a financial transaction but a demonstration of the unity and love within the body of Christ. Historically, this collection was a tangible expression of the Gentile churches' solidarity with the Jewish believers, bridging cultural and ethnic divides.

Last year
This phrase indicates a specific time frame, showing that the Corinthians had previously committed to this cause. It serves as a reminder of their initial enthusiasm and commitment. The historical context suggests that the Corinthians had pledged their support during Paul's previous visit, highlighting the importance of following through on commitments made in faith.

you were the first
The Corinthians were pioneers in this charitable endeavor. The Greek word "prōtos" emphasizes their leadership and initiative. This commendation serves to encourage them to continue in their good work, reminding them of their role as examples to other churches.

not only to give
The act of giving is highlighted here, but it is not the sole focus. The Greek word "poieō" implies action and effort, suggesting that their giving was an active expression of their faith. This aligns with the biblical principle that faith without works is dead (James 2:26).

but even to have such a desire
Paul commends the Corinthians not just for their actions but for their intentions. The Greek word "thelō" indicates a strong will or desire, reflecting the sincerity and eagerness of their hearts. This desire is crucial, as it aligns with the biblical teaching that God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7).

Persons / Places / Events
1. Paul
- The apostle who authored the letter to the Corinthians, providing guidance and encouragement to the early church.

2. Corinthians
- The recipients of the letter, a Christian community in Corinth known for their spiritual gifts but also for their struggles with unity and moral issues.

3. Macedonian Churches
- Mentioned earlier in the chapter as an example of generosity despite their poverty, serving as a model for the Corinthians.

4. Jerusalem Church
- The intended recipients of the collection, experiencing poverty and in need of support from other Christian communities.

5. Collection for the Saints
- The event or project Paul is addressing, a financial contribution to support the impoverished believers in Jerusalem.
Teaching Points
The Importance of Intentional Giving
Paul commends the Corinthians for their initial desire to give, emphasizing that generosity begins with a willing heart.

Consistency in Generosity
The Corinthians were the first to express a desire to give; Paul encourages them to follow through, teaching us the value of consistency in our commitments.

The Role of Encouragement in the Church
Paul’s opinion serves as encouragement, showing that leaders should inspire and guide others in acts of service and generosity.

Generosity as a Reflection of Spiritual Maturity
The act of giving is not just financial but a reflection of spiritual growth and maturity, aligning with the teachings of Christ.

Unity and Support within the Body of Christ
The collection for the Jerusalem church exemplifies the interconnectedness of the global church, reminding us of our responsibility to support one another.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does Paul’s encouragement to the Corinthians about their giving challenge our own approach to generosity today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our initial desires to serve or give are followed by consistent action?

3. How can the example of the Macedonian churches inspire us to give, even when we feel we have little to offer?

4. What are some practical ways we can support fellow believers in need, both locally and globally, as seen in the early church?

5. How does our giving reflect our spiritual maturity and understanding of the unity within the body of Christ?
Connections to Other Scriptures
1 Corinthians 16:1-4
Paul previously instructed the Corinthians on the collection for the saints, emphasizing orderly and planned giving.

Romans 15:25-27
Paul discusses his mission to deliver aid to the Jerusalem church, highlighting the unity and mutual support among believers.

Acts 11:27-30
The early church's practice of sending relief to Judea during a famine, illustrating the principle of supporting fellow believers in need.
Appeal to the CorinthiansC. Lipscomb 2 Corinthians 8:7-15
Things that Belong to CharityE. Hurndall 2 Corinthians 8:10-15
People
Corinthians, Paul, Titus
Places
Achaia, Corinth, Macedonia
Topics
Advantage, Advice, Ago, Already, Begin, Beginning, Begun, Best, Clear, Complete, Desire, Expedient, Forward, Helps, Herein, Intentions, Judgment, Matter, Minds, Operations, Opinion, Profit, Profitable, Ready, Seeing, Start, Willing
Dictionary of Bible Themes
2 Corinthians 8:10

     5779   advice

2 Corinthians 8:1-15

     6710   privileges

2 Corinthians 8:7-11

     8252   faithfulness, relationships

2 Corinthians 8:10-12

     5780   advisers
     5847   enthusiasm

Library
Willing and not Doing
'Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will so there may be a performance also.'--2 COR. viii. 11. The Revised Version reads: 'But now complete the doing also; that as there was the readiness to will, so there may be the completion also out of your ability.' A collection of money for the almost pauper church at Jerusalem bulked very largely in the Apostle's mind at the date of the writing of the two letters to the Corinthian church. We learn that that church had
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Rich yet Poor
'For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich.'--2 COR. viii. 9. The Apostle has been speaking about a matter which, to us, seems very small, but to him was very great viz., a gathering of pecuniary help from the Gentile churches for the poor church in Jerusalem. Large issues, in his estimation, attended that exhibition of Christian unity, and, be it great or small, he applies the highest of
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Giving and Asking
'Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; 2. How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. 3. For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves; 4. Praying us with much entreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. 5. And this they did, not as we hoped,
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Condescension of Christ
And now, dear friends, the argument of the apostle shall be our subject to-day. It divides itself in an extremely simple manner. We have first, the pristine condition of our Saviour--"He was rich." We have next, his condescension--"He became poor." And then we have the effect and result of his poverty--"That we might be made rich." We shall then close by giving you a doctrine, a question, and an exhortation. May God bless all these, and help us to tell them aright. I. First, then, our text tells
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 3: 1857

The Faithful Steward
Systematic beneficence is capable of a twofold division. There is a general or universal system, binding indiscriminately and equally on all of every rank and condition; and a particular system adapted alone to the circumstances of each individual. The latter stands related to the former, as the edifice to the foundation on which it rests. This distinction must be kept clearly before mind, if we would have definite views of our obligations relative to this important subject. In the ensuing discussion,
Sereno D. Clark—The Faithful Steward

Of the Matters to be Considered in the Councils.
Let us now consider the matters which should be treated in the councils, and with which popes, cardinals, bishops, and all learned men should occupy themselves day and night, if they loved Christ and His Church. But if they do not do so, the people at large and the temporal powers must do so, without considering the thunders of their excommunications. For an unjust excommunication is better than ten just absolutions, and an unjust absolution is worse than ten just excommunications. Therefore let
Martin Luther—First Principles of the Reformation

Indeed in all Spiritual Delights, which Unmarried Women Enjoy...
27. Indeed in all spiritual delights, which unmarried women enjoy, their holy conversation ought also to be with caution; lest haply, though their life be not evil through haughtiness, their report be evil through negligence. Nor are they to be listened to, whether they be holy men or women, when (upon occasion of their neglect in some matter being blamed, through which it comes to pass that they fall into evil suspicion, from which they know that their life is far removed) they say that it is enough
St. Augustine—On the Good of Widowhood.

Epistle xxxi. To Theodorus, Physician.
To Theodorus, Physician. Gregory to Theodorus, Physician to the Emperor. I myself give thanks to Almighty God, that distance does not separate the hearts of those who truly love each other mutually. For lo, most sweet and glorious son, we are far apart in body, and yet are present with each other in charity. This your works, this your letters testify, this I experienced in you when present, this I recognize in your Glory when absent. May this make you both beloved of men and worthy for ever before
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great

Therefore Let the Rest of the Faithful, who have Lost virginity...
28. Therefore let the rest of the faithful, who have lost virginity, follow the Lamb, not whithersoever He shall have gone, but so far as ever they shall have been able. But they are able every where, save when He walks in the grace of virginity. "Blessed are the poor in spirit;" [2081] imitate Him, Who, whereas "He was rich, was made poor for your sakes." [2082] "Blessed are the meek;" imitate Him, Who said, "Learn of Me, for I am meek and lowly of heart." [2083] "Blessed are they that mourn;" imitate
St. Augustine—Of Holy Virginity.

Epistle xxviii. To Theodore, Physician.
To Theodore, Physician. Gregory to Theodore, Physician at Constantinople. My most beloved son the deacon Sabinianus [1709] , on his return to me, brought me no letter from your Glory; but he conveyed hither what had been sent for the poor and captives; whence I understood the reason. It was that you would not speak by letters to a man, having by a good deed made your address to Almighty God. For this same deed of yours has a voice of its own, which calls to the secret ears of God, as it is written,
Saint Gregory the Great—the Epistles of Saint Gregory the Great

The Work of the Holy Spirit
The Church of Christ. "It is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is ruth."--1 John v. 6. We now proceed to discuss the work of the Holy Spirit wrought in the Church of Christ. Altho the Son of God has had a Church in the earth from the beginning, yet the Scripture distinguishes between its manifestation before and after Christ. As the acorn, planted in the ground, exists, altho it passes through the two periods of germinating and rooting, and of growing upward and forming trunk and
Abraham Kuyper—The Work of the Holy Spirit

Balak's Inquiries Relative to the Service of God, and Balaam's Answer, Briefly Considered.
"Wherewith shall I come before the Lord, and bow myself before the high God? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves of a year old? Will the Lord be pleased with, thousands of rams, or with ten thousands of rivers of oil? Shall I give my first born for my transgression; the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?--He hath shewed thee, 0 man, what is good: And what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?" As mankind are
Andrew Lee et al—Sermons on Various Important Subjects

On Account Then of These Either Occupations of the Servants of God...
17. On account then of these either occupations of the servants of God, or bodily infirmities, which cannot be altogether wanting, not only doth the Apostle permit the needs of saints to be supplied by good believers, but also most wholesomely exhorteth. For, setting apart that power, which he saith himself had not used, which yet that the faithful must serve unto, he enjoins, saying, "Let him that is catechised in the word, communicate unto him that doth catechise him, in all good things:" [2531]
St. Augustine—Of the Work of Monks.

The Duty of Self-Denial.
"Surely I have behaved and quieted myself, as a child that is weaned of his mother: my soul is even as a weaned child."--Psalm cxxxi. 2. Self-denial of some kind or other is involved, as is evident, in the very notion of renewal and holy obedience. To change our hearts is to learn to love things which we do not naturally love--to unlearn the love of this world; but this involves, of course, a thwarting of our natural wishes and tastes. To be righteous and obedient implies self-command; but to
John Henry Newman—Parochial and Plain Sermons, Vol. VII

Of the Nature of Regeneration, with Respect to the Change it Produces in Men's Affections, Resolutions, Labors, Enjoyments and Hopes.
2 Cor. v. 17. 2 Cor. v. 17. If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away, behold, all things are become new. AMONG the various subjects, which exercise the thoughts and tongues of men, few are more talked of than Religion. But it is melancholy to think how little it is understood; and how much it is mistaken and misrepresented in the world. The text before us gives us a very instructive view of it: such a view, that I am sure, an experimental knowledge of its sense would
Philip Doddridge—Practical Discourses on Regeneration

Covenanting a Duty.
The exercise of Covenanting with God is enjoined by Him as the Supreme Moral Governor of all. That his Covenant should be acceded to, by men in every age and condition, is ordained as a law, sanctioned by his high authority,--recorded in his law of perpetual moral obligation on men, as a statute decreed by him, and in virtue of his underived sovereignty, promulgated by his command. "He hath commanded his covenant for ever."[171] The exercise is inculcated according to the will of God, as King and
John Cunningham—The Ordinance of Covenanting

Meditations to Stir us up to Morning Prayer.
1. If, when thou art about to pray, Satan shall suggest that thy prayers are too long, and that therefore it were better either to omit prayers, or else to cut them shorter, meditate that prayer is thy spiritual sacrifice, wherewith God is well pleased (Heb. xiii. 15, 16;) and therefore it is so displeasing to the devil, and so irksome to the flesh. Bend therefore thy affections (will they, nill they) to so holy an exercise; assuring thyself, that it doth by so much the more please God, by how much
Lewis Bayly—The Practice of Piety

Differences in Judgment About Water Baptism, no Bar to Communion: Or, to Communicate with Saints, as Saints, Proved Lawful.
IN ANSWER TO A BOOK WRITTEN BY THE BAPTISTS, AND PUBLISHED BY MR. T. PAUL AND MR. W. KIFFIN, ENTITLED, 'SOME SERIOUS REFLECTIONS ON THAT PART OF MR BUNYAN'S CONFESSION OF FAITH, TOUCHING CHURCH COMMUNION WITH UNBAPTIZED BELIEVERS.' WHEREIN THEIR OBJECTIONS AND ARGUMENTS ARE ANSWERED, AND THE DOCTRINE OF COMMUNION STILL ASSERTED AND VINDICATED. HERE IS ALSO MR. HENRY JESSE'S JUDGMENT IN THE CASE, FULLY DECLARING THE DOCTRINE I HAVE ASSERTED. BY JOHN BUNYAN. 'Should not the multitude of words be answered?
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3

The Parables Exemplified in the Early History of the Church.
"To Him shall prayer unceasing And daily vows ascend; His Kingdom still increasing, A Kingdom without end." We have seen that our Lord described in His Parables the general character and nature of "The Kingdom of Heaven." Consequently, if the Church established by the Apostles under the guidance of the Holy Ghost is "The Kingdom of Heaven," it will necessarily be found to agree with the description thus given. Let us therefore now consider how far the history of the Church, in the Acts of the Apostles
Edward Burbidge—The Kingdom of Heaven; What is it?

Tithing
There are few subjects on which the Lord's own people are more astray than on the subject of giving. They profess to take the Bible as their own rule of faith and practice, and yet in the matter of Christian finance, the vast majority have utterly ignored its plain teachings and have tried every substitute the carnal mind could devise; therefore it is no wonder that the majority of Christian enterprises in the world today are handicapped and crippled through the lack of funds. Is our giving to be
Arthur W. Pink—Tithing

Sanctification.
I. I will remind you of some points that have been settled in this course of study. 1. The true intent and meaning of the law of God has been, as I trust, ascertained in the lectures on moral government. Let this point if need be, be examined by reference to those lectures. 2. We have also seen, in those lectures, what is not, and what is implied in entire obedience to the moral law. 3. In those lectures, and also in the lectures on justification and repentance, it has been shown that nothing is
Charles Grandison Finney—Systematic Theology

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