The phrase "first gave themselves to the Lord" is derived from 2 Corinthians 8:5, where the Apostle Paul commends the Macedonian churches for their exemplary generosity. The full verse in the Berean Standard Bible reads: "And not only did they do as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us, in keeping with God’s will."

Context and Background

In 2 Corinthians 8, Paul is addressing the Corinthian church regarding the collection for the saints in Jerusalem. The Macedonian churches, despite their own trials and poverty, had shown remarkable generosity. Paul uses their example to encourage the Corinthians to follow suit. The Macedonians' giving was not merely a financial transaction; it was an act of worship and devotion, rooted in their commitment to Christ.

Theological Significance

The act of giving oneself "first to the Lord" underscores the principle that true Christian giving is an outflow of one's relationship with God. It reflects a heart fully surrendered to Christ, prioritizing spiritual devotion over material concerns. This principle aligns with the broader biblical teaching that God desires the heart above all else. As Jesus taught in Matthew 6:33 , "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you."

Practical Implications

1. Priority of Devotion: The Macedonians' example teaches that before any act of service or giving, a believer's primary commitment must be to the Lord. This prioritization ensures that all actions are aligned with God's will and are expressions of genuine faith.

2. Motivation for Generosity: Their giving was motivated by their relationship with Christ, not by external pressure or obligation. This highlights the importance of internal motivation in Christian service, where actions are driven by love and gratitude towards God.

3. Model for Christian Living: The Macedonians serve as a model for believers today, demonstrating that even in difficult circumstances, one's commitment to God can lead to acts of profound generosity and service. Their example challenges Christians to evaluate their own priorities and to consider how their lives reflect their devotion to the Lord.

4. Community and Fellowship: By giving themselves first to the Lord, the Macedonians were able to give themselves to others, fostering a sense of community and mutual support. This reflects the biblical ideal of the church as a body of believers united in Christ, working together for the common good.

Biblical Cross-References

· Romans 12:1 : "Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship."

· Philippians 2:3-4 : "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others."

· 1 Thessalonians 1:6-8 : "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. As a result, you have become an example to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia."

The Macedonians' example of giving themselves first to the Lord serves as a timeless reminder of the foundational role of personal devotion in the life of a believer, influencing all aspects of Christian conduct and community life.