It Starts Small

This chapter continues to urge Christians in the Corinthian church to follow through on their commitment. They had agreed to participate in a collection for suffering Christians in Jerusalem. Paul believes writing to them about the collection is unnecessary. He calls it the “ministry for the saints”.

9 Now concerning the ministry to the saints, it is unnecessary for me to write to you. ² For I know your eagerness, and I boast about you to the Macedonians, “Achaia has been ready since last year,” and your zeal has stirred up most of them. ³ But I am sending the brothers so that our boasting about you in this matter would not prove empty, and so that you would be ready just as I said. ⁴ Otherwise, if any Macedonians come with me and find you unprepared, we, not to mention you, would be put to shame in that situation. ⁵ Therefore I considered it necessary to urge the brothers to go on ahead to you and arrange in advance the generous gift you promised, so that it will be ready as a gift and not as an extortion.

2 Corinthians 9:1-5

It is unnecessary for me to write to you

Paul was confident in the Corinthians willingness to give. He recognized their generous heart. But still, he encourages them. It is never a waste to encourage people, even if we think they do not need it.

²⁴ And let us consider one another in order to provoke love and good works, ²⁵ not neglecting to gather together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging each other, and all the more as you see the day approaching.

Hebrews 10:24-25

“Preaching to the choir” is still necessary both for reminding and for stirring people up to that love and good deeds which they desire to do already.

For I know your readiness

The Corinthians had wholeheartedly committed themselves to join in this noble collection long ago. Their fervent intention to aid was unmistakable, radiating with clarity. Paul did not find it necessary to persuade them to contribute. Instead, he was utterly devoted to inspiring them to bring their noble intentions to fruition. Their eager “readiness” must transform into dynamic action, breathing life into their promises and igniting the spirit of giving!

This resonates deeply with many of us. It’s often simpler to express our readiness or willingness than to take that critical leap into action. Countless individuals talk about their intentions to embrace exercise. They express the commitment to a healthy diet. Yet, many of them remain on the sidelines, hesitant to begin. The same passionate call applies to Christian service. Many believers possess an earnest desire to assist. However, they may feel lost. Some have yet to ignite the fire within themselves to leap into action. Often, all it takes is that one exhilarating spark to propel them forward!

Your zeal has stirred up most of them

Passion is contagious. The generosity of the Macedonians could encourage the Corinthians. And likewise, the Corinthians zeal for this giving project inspired others to take part and give.

Modeling is an important Biblical concept. Jesus served as a model for His disciples.

11 Imitate me, as I also imitate Christ.

1 Corinthians 11:1

The Bible frequently compares people to sheep, emphasizing one of their most profound traits: the ability to follow. It’s incredibly valuable for individuals to have a model. This model demonstrates how to embody their faith in the hustle and bustle of daily life. However, these models must not be followed blindly, nor should they be exalted on a pedestal. Instead, they act as powerful examples. They guide those still navigating the journey of applying the Word of God in their lives. They ignite hope and inspiration in their hearts.

In this passage, setting an example of generosity can inspire others. It shows them how to be a wise steward of the resources one has been entrusted with.

³ They took from Moses’s presence all the contributions that the Israelites had brought for the task of making the sanctuary. Meanwhile, the people continued to bring freewill offerings morning after morning.

⁴ Then all the artisans who were doing all the work for the sanctuary came one by one from the work they were doing ⁵ and said to Moses, “The people are bringing more than is needed for the construction of the work the Lord commanded to be done.”

⁶ After Moses gave an order, they sent a proclamation throughout the camp: “Let no man or woman make anything else as an offering for the sanctuary.” So the people stopped. ⁷ The materials were sufficient for them to do all the work. There was more than enough.

Exodus 36:3-7

The freewill offerings for the tabernacle stand as a powerful example of positive influence. They are a testament to the people’s heartfelt motivation to give. The abundance of gifts was so overwhelming that Moses had to urge them to stop! A fervor ignited within the community, fueled by the inspiring actions of those around them. As neighbors witnessed each other’s generosity, a collective desire surged to contribute, creating a magnificent tapestry of unity. Together, they formed an unstoppable wave of positive synergy that uplifted their spirit and purpose.

If someone asked your friend what you are zealous for, what do you think they would say? Sports? Shopping? Investment? Politics? Let us ask God to give us a heart of zeal for Him. Let us live our lives in such a way that people around us know we are zealous to serve the Lord.

I am sending the brothers so that our boasting about you may not prove empty

Paul had told others about the Corinthians’ commitment to take part in this collection. At least those on his team know about it, but probably also many churches. Paul might have told the church at Corinth about the Macedonians’ generosity. He likely shared with other churches about the Corinthians’ readiness to help.

It would be embarrassing for them and him. When the brothers came to collect their gift, they might not have it. They might even change their mind.

Once again, the main point is that they should finish what they started. And Paul was more than willing to help keep them accountable to do it, for their own good.

You likely know someone who constantly embarks on new ventures only to leave them behind halfway. However, God calls us to be steadfast and dependable, in both the small and monumental tasks of life. To be reliable means not only keeping our promises but also fully completing the endeavors we begin. This requires us to assess the cost before diving in. Only commit to a mission if you are absolutely convinced it is God’s calling! If you are certain, then embrace perseverance with fervor!

Look at one area of your service to God that is not yet complete. Consider how you can make progress in that area this week. What bold step can you take now?

That it may be ready as a willing gift, not as an exaction

Paul was not requiring or demanding this; it was not a tax or a forced obligation. Instead, it was a chance for a heartfelt gift. It echoed the spirit of the freewill offerings celebrated in the Old Testament. A freewill offering was a beautiful act of love and devotion, entirely voluntary. The peace offerings fit beautifully into this category. Imagine an Israelite who is overflowing with gratitude for God’s abundant blessings. He willingly chooses to bring an offering to the temple at any moment. This was not just a gift. It was a passionate response. The profound love of God filled his heart.

These heartfelt gifts are truly the most invaluable treasures. Parents deeply understand this truth. When a parent feels the need to nag, it sours the experience. Pushing or compelling their child to choose a gift also steals the joy. Moreover, if the recipient senses that the gesture was born out of obligation, it loses its charm entirely. In fact, the gift may end up symbolizing a profound lack of generosity and warmth from the giver.

On the other hand, when a parent sees his child thinking of others, it warms the heart. The child voluntarily goes out of his way to make or purchase a nice gift for others. Such a gift, given in love, will be treasured.

God gave us His own Son voluntarily. He was not required to do so (for who could require Him?) Jesus also, gave His own life of His own accord.

¹¹ “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.

John 10:11

And here lies the essence of the Christian life! Our belief transcends mere religion; it is not just a collection of rules to follow. It embodies a profound relationship. The overwhelming love and sacrifice of God should ignite a fiery passion within us to respond in kind. God did not craft a world of automatons who rise each day to utter, “I love you.” How hollow and empty would that be?

No, He gave us a will. He gives us choices. From the beginning, He gave people a choice in the Garden of Eden. If then, we willingly (in response to His grace) give to Him it is worship.

12 Therefore, brothers and sisters, in view of the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your true worship.

Romans 12:1

Sacrificing ourselves for others is true worship.

Do you ever find yourself hesitating to go to church, read the Bible, pray, or give? Do you approach these acts with a sense of reluctance or resentment? If that’s the case, I urge you to return to the cross. Reflect on the incredible sacrifice Christ has made for you. Contemplate the profound significance it holds for your life. As you come back to the cross, allow your heart to ignite with warmth and fervor. Experience a transformative renewal from the inside out. This renewal will lead to an exhilarating desire for the things of God. These things will not be mere rituals but a passionate response driven by your deep love for Him.

Paul continues by telling us that giving comes from the heart.

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Cross-References

• Romans 12:11
• Titus 2:14
• Ephesians 5:15-16

Reflective Questions

• What “ministry for the saints” is Paul referring to in verse 1?
• So were the Corinthians ready? If they were already ready to give, why does Paul keep encouraging them?
• What does Achaia have to do with Corinth?
• How did the Corinthians’ zeal motivate the other churches?
• How does Paul help them fulfill their commitment?
• What would happen if Paul came with some others and the Corinthians had not acted on their commitment?
• Would you communicate with others like Paul does here? Why or why not?
• What can we learn in this passage about the importance of making and keeping promises?

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⁶ The point is this: The person who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the person who sows generously will also reap generously. ⁷ Each person should do as he has decided in his heart—not reluctantly or out of compulsion, since God loves a cheerful giver.

2 Corinthians 9:6-7

Whoever sows sparingly will reap sparingly and whoever sows bountifully will reap bountifully –

The principle of sowing and reaping is found throughout Scripture. A farmer who wants a large crop should sow a lot of seed. If a farmer just sows a few seeds, he will not get much back.

Does this verse teach that if you give a lot of money to God you will become rich? Why or why not?

Many prosperity gospel teachers take this verse out of context. They cite it as a promise from God to give material wealth in return for monetary donations. But that is not what this verse means. Consider Jesus, Paul, and the disciples. Their lives show that investing in God’s kingdom does not guarantee riches.

¹² In fact, all who want to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.

2 Timothy 3:12

In fact in 2 Timothy 3:12 we learn that those “who desire to live a godly life, will be persecuted.”

So a guarantee of physical wealth here on earth is never promised to believers in the church. So then what does this mean?

We must passionately recognize that sowing is a profound investment in God’s kingdom! When you plant a seed, you are promised the exhilarating reward of the same harvest you’ve sown. Plant a tomato seed, and you will joyously reap tomatoes! Sow corn, and you will harvest corn! Investing in stocks or a business with a profit motive should yield a financial return. However, investing your resources into God’s kingdom is different. It’s not merely about worldly gains. It’s an eternal investment that brings unimaginable blessings!

³⁶ “My kingdom is not of this world,” said Jesus. “If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would fight, so that I wouldn’t be handed over to the Jews. But as it is, my kingdom is not from here.” John 18:36

It is a profound investment in a divine kingdom! Giving to God is not merely a donation; it’s a bold commitment to build His kingdom. The mission is to equip the saints, passionately train disciples, fervently share the gospel, and diligently translate Scripture. Sowing a seed in God’s kingdom unleashes spiritual blessings that resonate throughout the lives of others. When you invest your life or resources in this sacred work, you will undeniably feel the impact of these blessings. Powerful blessings will be poured out upon you. As you generously give to God’s kingdom, you will bring transformative spiritual blessings to others. You will also be richly rewarded with abundant spiritual gifts in return!

A person who invests sparingly in God’s kingdom will reap meager rewards. If you dedicate only a small portion of your time to God’s Word, you will gain very few treasures of wisdom. Engaging in fellowship for just a fleeting moment will lead to a limited outpouring of blessings. If you hold back your financial contributions to kingdom endeavors, you will miss out on many divine blessings. These blessings could have been yours if you had chosen to give with an open heart. We cannot take our money to heaven. Naked we enter and naked we leave. Therefore the wisest investment is to send something ahead. We do this by building treasures in heaven through serving God on earth.

¹³ each one’s work will become obvious. For the day will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire; the fire will test the quality of each one’s work.

1 Corinthians 3:!3

One day all of our works will be tested by fire.

The work we do to build God’s kingdom is eternal! Every investment made for Him will stand the test of time. When you sow with a pure heart and fervent motivation, you will be rewarded with abundant blessings. Some of these blessings may manifest now. You may experience joy through a deepening relationship with God. You might find sweet fellowship with fellow believers. You could see the exhilarating sight of His kingdom flourishing. Yet, the most magnificent rewards await us when our deeds are evaluated on that glorious final day.

If a person gives to get rich or impress people, he will miss out on the greater reward. His gift will not please God who sees the heart. And his works will be burned up.

Spend some time and fervently evaluate your giving! Why do you give? Are your motivations pure and genuine? Are you passionately sowing abundant seeds into His kingdom, or merely a few? Reflect deeply on where you are investing your time, energy, and resources. The wisest investors focus on the longest time horizon—our horizon is nothing less than eternity! What bold actions must you take? How can you ensure you are investing not just in the present? Consider the glorious future that awaits in eternity.

Each one must give as he has decided in his heart

Giving is an intensely personal choice; it must pour forth from the depths of the heart. True giving resonates with authenticity. It can never be coerced through intimidation or pressure. This is not giving at all! Imagine if someone seized your credit card and spent freely. You would never dare call it a “gift.” God sees the heart, the very core of our intentions. He knows if we give for the right reasons or if we cling tightly, shrouded in stinginess. He understands the sacrifices we make, regardless of the amount. He sees the fierce battles in our minds. We wrestle with how much we should offer. He rejoices when we rise to the occasion. We choose the path of generosity!

⁴ so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.

Matthew 6:4

God sees what is done in secret and will reward.

Not reluctantly or under compulsion

Once again, it all circles back to the heart! The Macedonians fervently craved the divine privilege of giving. We’ve all seen people who give with a heavy heart. They invite you out to eat, yet worry about how much you’ll spend. In stark contrast, some radiant souls exist. They revel in sharing the abundant blessings that God has bestowed upon them. They don’t measure the cost; instead, their hearts overflow with the joy of being a true blessing to others!

What are the symptoms of someone is a reluctant giver?

Dive deep into the essence of generosity! Reflect on your ability to give and bravely lay bare your shortcomings before God. Plead with Him to ignite a transformation within your heart, kindling a fervent desire to contribute. Sincerely ask for divine opportunities to share your blessings. Cultivate a heart that delights in participating wholeheartedly and joyfully when these precious moments arise.

God loves a cheerful giver

God longs for us to give to Him with abandon, driven by our heartfelt desire. He yearns for our love to overflow so magnificently. He desires us to eagerly seize every chance to pour ourselves into His kingdom. This divine yearning transcends mere benefit for Him; when we unleash our hearts in this way, we undergo a profound transformation. It enriches our souls and nourishes our spirits, filling our lives with unimaginable goodness.

What does a cheerful giver look like?

When you give cheerfully God is pleased. For believers, that is all the motivation we need.

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Cross-References

• Luke 6:38
• 1 Timothy 6:17-19
• Proverbs 3:27
• Luke 12:33-34
• Hebrews 13:16

Reflective Questions

• What do the sowing and reaping represent in this passage?
• What does it then mean to sow sparingly?
• Is Paul promising riches and prosperity to the one who gives a lot? Why or why not?
• What do other passages teach us about the prosperity gospel?
• Is the reaping money or something else?
• What important principles can we learn about giving in verse 7? How can you apply these to your own life?
• What might be some symptoms or signs of reluctant giving?
• What does cheerful giving look like?

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