1
And now, brothers, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches.
2
Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity.
3
For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own,
4
they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints.
5
And they did not do as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us in keeping with God's will.
6
So we urged Titus, since he had earlier made a beginning, to bring also to completion this act of grace on your part.
(the following is from Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary -- www.christnotes.org)
"Chapter Contents
The apostle reminds them of charitable contributions for the poor
saints. (1-6) Enforces this by their gifts, and by the love and grace of
Christ. (7-9) By the willingness they had shown to this good work.
(10-15) He recommends Titus to them. (16-24)
Commentary on 2 Corinthians 8:1-6
The grace of God must be owned as the root and fountain of all the
good in us, or done by us, at any time. It is great grace and favour
from God, if we are made useful to others, and forward to any good work.
He commends the charity of the Macedonians. So far from needing that
Paul should urge them, they prayed him to receive the gift. Whatever we
use or lay out for God, it is only giving him what is his own. All we
give for charitable uses, will not be accepted of God, nor turn to our
advantage, unless we first give ourselves to the Lord. By ascribing all
really good works to the grace of God, we not only give the glory to him
whose due it is, but also show men where their strength is. Abundant
spiritual joy enlarges men's hearts in the work and labour of love. How
different this from the conduct of those who will not join in any good
work, unless urged into it!"
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