◄ 2 Corinthians 9 ►
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God Loves a Cheerful Giver (1 Corinthians 16:1–4) 1Now about the service to the saints, there is no need for me to write to you. 2For I know your eagerness to help, and I have been boasting to the Macedonians that since last year you in Achaia were prepared to give. And your zeal has stirred most of them to do likewise. 3But I am sending the brothers in order that our boasting about you in this matter should not prove empty, but that you will be prepared, just as I said. 4Otherwise, if any Macedonians come with me and find you unprepared, we—to say nothing of you—would be ashamed of having been so confident. 5So I thought it necessary to urge the brothers to visit you beforehand and make arrangements for the generous gift you had promised. This way, your gift will be prepared generously and not begrudgingly. 6Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver.a 8And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things, at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 9As it is written: “He has scattered abroad His gifts to the poor; His righteousness endures forever.”b 10Now He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your store of seed and will increase the harvest of your righteousness. 11You will be enriched in every way to be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will produce thanksgiving to God. 12For this ministry of service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanksgiving to God. 13Because of the proof this ministry provides, the saints will glorify God for your obedient confession of the gospel of Christ, and for the generosity of your contribution to them and to all the others. 14And their prayers for you will express their affection for you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you. 15Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift! Footnotes: 7 a See Proverbs 22:8, LXX addition. 9 b Psalm 112:9 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub 2 Corinthians 9 Summary God Loves a Cheerful Giver Verses 1–5 – Paul’s Confidence and Concern Paul knows the Corinthians are eager to give, yet he is sending brothers ahead to make sure the gift is ready and will not look like last-minute pressure. Verses 6–9 – The Principle of Sowing and Reaping Generosity is compared to seed: sow little, reap little; sow much, reap much. God loves cheerful givers and supplies grace in abundance. Verses 10–11 – God the Supplier and Multiplier The same God who “supplies seed to the sower” will multiply what believers give and increase the harvest of righteousness. Verses 12–15 – Thanksgiving Overflowing The offering will meet needs in Jerusalem, overflow in many thanksgivings, and deepen unity between Gentile and Jewish believers, ending with praise for God’s “indescribable gift.” 2 Corinthians 9, penned by the Apostle Paul, instructs the Corinthians about the blessings that come from generous, cheerful giving. It encourages Christians to give what they have decided in their hearts to give, without reluctance or compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. This chapter is a powerful reminder of the divine promise that our generous giving on earth yields an eternal return in heaven. Historical Context of the Collection for Jerusalem • Famine and economic hardship in Judea (Acts 11:28–30) made the Jerusalem church dependent on aid. • Paul coordinated a multi-church relief effort (1 Corinthians 16:1-4; Romans 15:25-27). Corinth, a prosperous port city, was crucial. • Delegates (“the brothers,” v. 3) ensured transparency, protecting Paul and the gift from suspicion (2 Corinthians 8:18-21). • Such inter-church sharing modeled the unity Jesus prayed for (John 17:20-23). The Pattern of Generous Giving in Scripture 1. Old Testament roots ‑ Abraham gave a tenth to Melchizedek (Genesis 14:20). ‑ Israelites brought firstfruits and freewill offerings (Deuteronomy 16:10). 2. Jesus’ teaching ‑ “Give, and it will be given to you” (Luke 6:38). ‑ Commended the widow’s two small coins (Mark 12:41-44). 3. Early church practice ‑ Believers in Jerusalem shared possessions so none lacked (Acts 4:32-35). ‑ Paul sees the Corinthian gift as the same spirit on a wider scale. Practical Lessons on Stewardship • Intentional planning: Paul urges them to prepare in advance (v. 5). Budgeting is spiritual. • Cheerful attitude: “God loves a cheerful giver” (v. 7). Joy, not guilt, is the motive. • Proportionate giving: “According to what one has” (8:12). God measures willingness, not wallet size. • Expectant faith: God “is able to make all grace abound” (v. 8). Giving invites God’s provision. Archaeological Insights into First-Century Corinth and Achaia • Excavations show a bustling marketplace (agora) lined with shops—ideal for raising funds. • Inscriptions reveal local “benefactors” sponsoring public works; Paul redirects the cultural norm toward kingdom generosity. • Isthmian Games stadium remains illustrate the metaphor of sowing and reaping rewards—well understood by Corinthian athletes and spectators. Key Word Study • “Cheerful” (v. 7, Gk. hilaros) hints at glad wholeheartedness—our word “hilarious.” Giving should feel like a celebration. • “Indescribable” (v. 15, Gk. anekdiegetos) appears only here in the New Testament, stressing that God’s gift in Christ defies vocabulary. Connections to Jesus’ Teaching • Verse 8 parallels Matthew 6:33: seeking God’s kingdom first brings “all these things” needed for life. • The sowing image echoes John 12:24—Jesus, the grain of wheat, died and produced much fruit, the ultimate model of giving. Chains of Thanksgiving: The Ripple Effect of Giving 1. Physical needs met (v. 12). 2. Gratitude rises to God (v. 12). 3. Fellowship deepens (“they will glorify God for your obedience,” v. 13). 4. Prayer flows back to the givers (“they will pray for you,” v. 14). Generosity creates a cycle of blessing that keeps circling the globe and the ages—evidence of “the surpassing grace of God” (v. 14). Connections to Additional Scriptures Luke 6:38 Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Proverbs 11:25 A generous soul will prosper, and he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed. Philippians 4:19 And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus. Teaching Points The Principle of Sowing and Reaping Paul writes, Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously (2 Corinthians 9:6). This principle underscores the spiritual law of reciprocity in giving. The Attitude of the Heart Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7). Our giving should be voluntary and joyful, reflecting a heart aligned with God's purposes. God's Provision and Sufficiency And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things, at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work (2 Corinthians 9:8). God promises to provide for our needs as we trust Him and give generously. The Impact of Generosity This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanksgiving to God (2 Corinthians 9:12). Our giving results in praise and thanksgiving to God, impacting both the giver and the receiver. Practical Applications Evaluate Your Giving Reflect on your current giving habits. Are you giving out of obligation, or is it a joyful expression of your faith? Trust in God's Provision Consider areas in your life where you need to trust God more fully for provision. How can you demonstrate that trust through generous giving? Encourage Others Share testimonies of how God has provided for you as you have given generously. Encourage others in your community to experience the joy of giving. Plan Your Giving Decide in advance what you will give, allowing your giving to be intentional and purposeful rather than impulsive. People 1. Paul The author of the letter, an apostle of Jesus Christ. In this chapter, Paul is encouraging the Corinthian church to follow through on their commitment to give generously to the collection for the saints in Jerusalem. He emphasizes the principles of sowing and reaping in the context of giving. 2. The Corinthians The recipients of the letter. Paul addresses them directly, urging them to be ready with their promised gift and to give willingly and generously. He commends their zeal and readiness to contribute, which has inspired others. 3. The Macedonians Although not directly named in this chapter, they are implied as part of the context. In previous chapters, Paul has mentioned the Macedonian churches as an example of generosity despite their poverty. Their example serves as an encouragement to the Corinthians. 4. The Saints in Jerusalem The intended recipients of the collection. They are the believers in Jerusalem who are experiencing hardship, and Paul is organizing a collection to support them. The term "saints" (Greek: ἅγιοι, hagioi) refers to the holy ones or believers in Christ. 5. God While not a human person, God is a central figure in this chapter. Paul speaks of God as the one who provides seed to the sower and bread for food, and who will supply and multiply the resources of the Corinthians so that they can be generous. God is also the one who enriches them in every way for all generosity, resulting in thanksgiving to Him. Places 1. Macedonia While not directly mentioned in 2 Corinthians 9, Macedonia is relevant because Paul references the generosity of the Macedonian churches in 2 Corinthians 8, which sets the stage for his exhortation in chapter 9. The Macedonian churches, including Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea, were known for their generosity despite their poverty. 2. Achaia Achaia is mentioned in 2 Corinthians 9:2: "For I know your eagerness to help, and I have been boasting about it to the Macedonians, telling them that since last year you in Achaia were ready to give, and your zeal has stirred most of them to do likewise." Achaia was a Roman province in southern Greece, where Corinth was located. The Corinthians' readiness to give is highlighted as an example to others. 3. Jerusalem Although not directly named in this chapter, Jerusalem is the ultimate destination for the collection Paul is organizing. The collection is intended to support the impoverished believers in Jerusalem, as seen in other parts of Paul's letters (e.g., Romans 15:26). The Greek term "διακονία" (diakonia) used in 2 Corinthians 9:12 refers to this ministry or service of providing for the needs of the saints in Jerusalem. Events 1. Paul's Confidence in the Corinthians' Readiness Paul expresses his confidence in the readiness of the Corinthians to give, as he has been boasting about them to the Macedonians. He mentions, "For I know your eagerness to help, and I have been boasting about it to the Macedonians, telling them that since last year you in Achaia were ready to give" (2 Corinthians 9:2). The Greek word for "eagerness" (προθυμία, prothymia) indicates a willing and prompt disposition. 2. Encouragement to Prepare the Gift Paul urges the Corinthians to prepare their generous gift in advance to ensure it is ready as a willing gift, not as an exaction. He writes, "So I thought it necessary to urge the brothers to visit you in advance and complete the arrangements for the generous gift you had promised" (2 Corinthians 9:5). The term "generous gift" (εὐλογία, eulogia) can also mean "blessing," emphasizing the positive nature of their contribution. 3. Principle of Sowing and Reaping Paul introduces the principle of sowing and reaping, stating, "Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously" (2 Corinthians 9:6). The Greek verb for "sows" (σπείρω, speirō) is used metaphorically to describe giving. 4. God Loves a Cheerful Giver Paul emphasizes the importance of giving with the right attitude, saying, "Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver" (2 Corinthians 9:7). The Greek word for "cheerful" (ἱλαρός, hilaros) conveys a sense of joyfulness and willingness. 5. God's Provision and Enrichment Paul assures the Corinthians that God is able to provide abundantly for them, enabling them to be generous. He states, "And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things, at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work" (2 Corinthians 9:8). The Greek word for "abound" (περισσεύω, perisseuō) suggests overflowing abundance. 6. Scriptural Support for Generosity Paul cites Scripture to support the principle of generosity, quoting, "As it is written: 'He has scattered abroad His gifts to the poor; His righteousness endures forever'" (2 Corinthians 9:9). This is a reference to Psalm 112:9, highlighting the enduring nature of righteous acts. 7. Multiplication of Resources Paul explains that God will multiply their resources and increase the harvest of their righteousness, saying, "Now He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your store of seed and will increase the harvest of your righteousness" (2 Corinthians 9:10). The Greek word for "multiply" (πληθύνω, plēthynō) indicates an increase or expansion. 8. Thanksgiving to God Paul concludes by highlighting that their generosity will result in thanksgiving to God, as their service not only meets needs but also overflows in many expressions of thanks to God. He writes, "This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the saints, but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanksgiving to God" (2 Corinthians 9:12). The Greek word for "thanksgiving" (εὐχαριστία, eucharistia) underscores gratitude. 9. Glorification of God through Obedience Paul notes that the Corinthians' generosity will lead others to glorify God for their obedience and the gospel of Christ, stating, "Because of the proof this ministry provides, the saints will glorify God for your obedient confession of the gospel of Christ" (2 Corinthians 9:13). The Greek word for "obedient" (ὑποταγή, hypotagē) reflects submission to God's will. 10. Prayer and Affection from Recipients Paul mentions that the recipients of the Corinthians' generosity will pray for them and express affection, saying, "And in their prayers for you, their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you" (2 Corinthians 9:14). The Greek word for "affection" (ἐπιποθέω, epipotheō) conveys a deep longing or yearning. 11. Thanks for God's Indescribable Gift Paul concludes with a doxology, expressing gratitude for God's indescribable gift, "Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!" (2 Corinthians 9:15). The Greek word for "indescribable" (ἀνεκδιήγητος, anekdiēgētos) suggests something beyond human description, often interpreted as referring to Jesus Christ or the grace of God. Lessons from 2 Corinthians 9 1. The Joy of Generosity In 2 Corinthians 9, Paul reminds us of the joy that comes from giving. He writes, "Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver" (2 Corinthians 9:7). This verse encourages us to give freely and joyfully, knowing that our generosity reflects the heart of God. When we give with a cheerful spirit, we not only bless others but also experience the profound joy that comes from aligning our actions with God's will. 2. Sowing and Reaping Paul uses the metaphor of sowing and reaping to illustrate the principle of generosity. "Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously" (2 Corinthians 9:6). This lesson teaches us that our actions have consequences. When we invest in others and in God's kingdom, we can expect to see a bountiful harvest of blessings, both spiritual and material. 3. God’s Provision In this chapter, Paul assures us that God will provide for our needs. "And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things, at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work" (2 Corinthians 9:8). This promise encourages us to trust in God's provision, knowing that He equips us to fulfill His purposes. When we rely on Him, we find that we have everything we need to do good works. 4. The Impact of Generosity Generosity has a ripple effect that extends beyond the immediate act of giving. Paul writes, "This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanksgiving to God" (2 Corinthians 9:12). Our generosity not only meets the needs of others but also inspires gratitude and praise to God, multiplying the impact of our actions. 5. The Glory of God Our acts of giving ultimately bring glory to God. Paul emphasizes that through our generosity, "men will glorify God for your obedience to the gospel of Christ, and for the generosity of your contribution to them and to all others" (2 Corinthians 9:13). When we give, we demonstrate the love and grace of God, leading others to recognize His goodness and glorify Him. 6. The Bond of Fellowship Generosity strengthens the bond of fellowship among believers. Paul notes that the recipients of generosity "will pray for you and express their affection for you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you" (2 Corinthians 9:14). Our giving fosters a sense of community and mutual support, as we share in each other's joys and burdens. 7. The Indescribable Gift Paul concludes the chapter with a powerful reminder of the ultimate gift: "Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!" (2 Corinthians 9:15). This refers to the gift of Jesus Christ, whose sacrifice is the foundation of our faith and the ultimate example of generosity. As we reflect on this gift, we are inspired to give generously in response to God's love. 8. Encouragement to Excel Paul encourages the Corinthians to excel in the grace of giving. He writes, "Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your store of seed and will increase the harvest of your righteousness" (2 Corinthians 9:10). This lesson challenges us to strive for excellence in our generosity, trusting that God will multiply our efforts for His glory. 9. The Role of Faith Generosity requires faith. Paul reminds us that God "will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness" (2 Corinthians 9:10). This assurance calls us to step out in faith, believing that God will use our gifts to accomplish His purposes. As we trust in His promises, our faith grows, and we become more effective instruments of His grace. 10. The Power of Thanksgiving Finally, Paul highlights the power of thanksgiving. He writes, "You will be enriched in every way to be generous on every occasion, so that through us your giving will produce thanksgiving to God" (2 Corinthians 9:11). Our generosity leads to thanksgiving, both in our hearts and in the hearts of those we bless. This cycle of giving and gratitude reflects the abundant life that God desires for us, rooted in His love and grace. Topics 1. Encouragement to Give Generously Paul begins by encouraging the Corinthians to give generously, emphasizing the readiness and eagerness they had previously shown. He highlights the importance of being prepared to give, as it reflects their commitment and enthusiasm. ^“For I know your eagerness to help, and I have been boasting about it to the Macedonians, telling them that since last year you in Achaia were ready to give; and your zeal has stirred most of them to do likewise.”^ (2 Corinthians 9:2) 2. Preparation for the Gift Paul stresses the importance of being prepared so that the gift is a willing one, not given grudgingly. This preparation ensures that the gift is a true reflection of their generosity. ^“But I am sending the brothers in order that our boasting about you in this matter should not prove hollow, but that you may be ready, as I said you would be.”^ (2 Corinthians 9:3) 3. Principle of Sowing and Reaping Paul introduces the principle of sowing and reaping, emphasizing that the measure of what one gives will determine the measure of what one receives. This principle is rooted in the Greek concept of reciprocity. ^“Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”^ (2 Corinthians 9:6) 4. Cheerful Giving The apostle underscores the importance of giving with a cheerful heart, as God loves a cheerful giver. The Greek word for cheerful, "ἱλαρός" (hilaros), conveys a sense of joy and willingness. ^“Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver.”^ (2 Corinthians 9:7) 5. God’s Provision and Abundance Paul assures the Corinthians that God is able to provide abundantly for them, so that they will have all they need to continue doing good works. This reflects the Greek understanding of divine provision and grace. ^“And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things, at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.”^ (2 Corinthians 9:8) 6. Thanksgiving and Glory to God The generosity of the Corinthians will result in thanksgiving and glory to God, as their giving not only meets needs but also leads others to praise God. This reflects the communal and worshipful aspect of giving. ^“This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God.”^ (2 Corinthians 9:12) 7. Interconnectedness of Believers Paul highlights the interconnectedness of believers, as their generosity leads to prayers and a deeper bond among the Christian community. This reflects the Greek concept of koinonia, or fellowship. ^“And in their prayers for you, their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you.”^ (2 Corinthians 9:14) 8. Indescribable Gift Paul concludes by acknowledging the indescribable gift of God, which is often understood as the gift of Jesus Christ and the grace that comes through Him. This reflects the ultimate source of all generosity. ^“Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!”^ (2 Corinthians 9:15) Themes 1. Generosity and Willingness to Give Paul emphasizes the importance of being ready and willing to give. He commends the Corinthians for their eagerness to help, which serves as an example to others. The Greek word "προθυμία" (prothymia) is used to describe this readiness and willingness, highlighting the importance of a willing heart in giving. 2. The Principle of Sowing and Reaping The passage underscores the principle that "whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously" (2 Corinthians 9:6). This agricultural metaphor, rooted in the Greek word "σπείρω" (speirō), illustrates the spiritual truth that our generosity will be rewarded in kind. 3. Cheerful Giving Paul instructs that each person should give what they have decided in their heart, "not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver" (2 Corinthians 9:7). The Greek word "ἱλαρός" (hilaros) for cheerful suggests a joyful and willing attitude in giving, which is pleasing to God. 4. God's Provision and Sufficiency The theme of God's provision is evident as Paul assures that "God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things, at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work" (2 Corinthians 9:8). The Greek word "αὐτάρκεια" (autarkeia) refers to sufficiency, emphasizing that God provides for our needs so we can be generous. 5. The Impact of Generosity on Others Paul highlights how generosity not only meets the needs of the saints but also results in thanksgiving to God. The act of giving leads to a ripple effect of gratitude and praise, as seen in 2 Corinthians 9:12-13, where the Greek word "εὐχαριστία" (eucharistia) is used for thanksgiving. 6. The Glory of God through Generosity The ultimate purpose of generosity is to bring glory to God. Paul notes that through the Corinthians' generosity, others will glorify God for their obedience and the grace of God evident in their giving (2 Corinthians 9:13). The Greek word "δόξα" (doxa) for glory underscores the divine honor and praise that result from acts of generosity. 7. The Indescribable Gift Paul concludes with a focus on God's "indescribable gift" (2 Corinthians 9:15), which is often understood as the gift of Jesus Christ. The Greek word "ἀνεκδιήγητος" (anekdiēgētos) conveys the inexpressible nature of this gift, reminding believers of the ultimate example of generosity from God Himself. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God's Provision Thank God for His abundant provision in your life and the opportunity to give. A Cheerful Heart Pray for a heart that delights in giving and reflects God's generosity. Wisdom in Giving Ask for wisdom to discern where and how to give in a way that honors God and meets the needs of others. Trust in God's Promises Pray for increased faith to trust in God's promises of provision as you give generously. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can Paul’s assurance in 2 Corinthians 9:6 that giving generously guarantees abundant reaping be reconciled with real-world examples of generous people who experience hardship? 2. Could the historical and cultural context behind Paul’s message in 2 Corinthians 9 undermine its universal application today? 3. Why does 2 Corinthians 9:7 emphasize cheerful giving if Old Testament laws (e.g., tithing in Malachi 3:10) demand mandatory giving? 4. What archaeological or historical evidence supports the claim in 2 Corinthians 9:9 that God supplies resources to the righteous indefinitely? 5. How do we reconcile 2 Corinthians 9 with other biblical passages that seem to prioritize faith alone over works or charitable acts? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does it mean to be a "cheerful giver" as described in 2 Corinthians 9? 2. How does the principle of "sowing and reaping" apply to aspects of your life beyond financial giving? 3. Can you recall a time when your generosity led to "expressions of thanksgiving to God"? How did this impact your faith? 4. Why does Paul place such emphasis on the preparation and readiness of the Corinthians' gift? 5. How does God "enrich in every way" to allow us to be generous on all occasions? 6. How can you cultivate a habit of cheerful giving in your daily life? 7. How does Paul's message in 2 Corinthians 9 align with Jesus' teachings on giving? 8. Can you identify an area in your life where you're sowing sparingly out of fear or reluctance? How can this passage guide you to sow more generously? 9. How has the thanksgiving and gratitude of others impacted you when you've been generous? 10. In what ways does our generosity glorify God? 11. How can the modern Church better promote and embody the principles of cheerful and generous giving? 12. Paul describes God's gift as "indescribable". What does this phrase mean to you? 13. How do the principles of generosity in 2 Corinthians 9 relate to the concept of "store up treasures in heaven" as mentioned in Matthew 6:20? 14. How can 2 Corinthians 9 inform Christian responses to modern issues such as poverty and wealth inequality? 15. How does the idea of "sowing bountifully" apply to non-material aspects of life, such as time, skills, or love? 16. Paul was confident that the Corinthians' generosity would elicit prayers and affections from the recipients. How does generosity foster community and unity within the Church? 17. Reflect on a time when someone else’s generosity had a profound impact on you. How can you pay that forward? 18. How might the lessons on generosity in this chapter influence your personal financial decisions and attitudes toward wealth? 19. What steps can you take to ensure that your giving is not done "reluctantly or under compulsion" but cheerfully? 20. How can the truths from 2 Corinthians 9 inspire you to live a life that leads to "expressions of thanksgiving to God"? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions