STUDIES BIBLICAL STEWARDSHIP. Bob Buchanan

Transcription

1 STUDIES IN BIBLICAL STEWARDSHIP Bob Buchanan 1

2 INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY OF BIBLICAL STEWARDSHIP I. Consider carefully the words, STEWARD ( oikonomos ) and STEWARDSHIP ( oikonomia ). A. OBSERVE the USAGES of the word, STEWARD ( oikonomos ) in New Testament passages: 1. This word means a MANAGER! The STEWARD is a servant who Manages his Master s property (Arndt and Gingrich Greek Lexicon, page 562). 2. Note that JESUS spoke of a FAITHFUL AND SENSIBLE STEWARD (Luke 12:42). Observe that, in this text Jesus spoke of a Steward whom his Master will put in charge of His servants.. 3. A STEWARD must be FAITHFUL or TRUSTWORTHY (I Corinthians 4:2). 4. However, Jesus also spoke of an UNJUST STEWARD (Luke 16:1-13). This STEWARD was Squandering his Master s possessions. (Luke 16:1). The Steward is managing the possessions of another person. 5. In a physical family of the first century, a SON was under guardians and managers (stewards) until the date set by the father (Galatians 4:2). 6. This word, STEWARD ( oikonomos ) is also used for the TREASURER of a CITY (Romans 16:23). 7. PAUL was a STEWARD or administrator of the MYSTERIES OF GOD (I Corinthians 4:1). 8. An ELDER of the church is GOD S STEWARD (Titus 1:7). 9. ALL CHRISTIANS, while serving one another, are STEWARDS of the GRACE OF GOD (I Peter 4:10). B. NOW, consider the Scriptural use of the word, STEWARDSHI!P ( oikonomia ). 2

3 1. This word means, Management of a household, direction, office (A. and G., page 562). 2. Paul had been entrusted with a COMMISSION or STEWARDSHIP in evangelizing ( oikonomian ) (I Corinthians 9:17). See also Colossians 1: This word is also used for God s plan of salvation, His arrangements for man s salvation, His Administration of the mystery (A. and G., page 562) (Ephesians 3:9). (Underlining by this writer). II. STEWARDSHIP involves the ENTIRE LIFE OF THE CHRISTIAN! It includes, but is MUCH MORE than STEWARDSHIP OF MONEY! A. We must be STEWARDS or MANAGERS of OUR TIME! 1. Our TIME on earth is NUMBERED! We must NOT WASTE IT! Read Psalm 90:3-6, We must MAKE THE MOST OF OUR TIME! (Ephesians 5:15, 16). B. We must be GOOD STEWARDS as we work in our DAILY LABOR! 1. May our DAILY ACTIVITIES give GLORY TO GOD (I Corinthians 10:31). 2. Let us WORK AS TO THE LORD and NOT TO MEN! (Ephesians 6:5-8). 3. We should WORK HEARTILY as for the LORD! (Colossians 3:22-25). 4. Follow this Scripture: Whatever your hand finds to do, verily, do it with all your might (Ecclesiastes 9:10). C. As GOOD STEWARDS of the GRACE OF GOD, SERVING ONE ANOTHER! (I Peter 4:10). Study also Galatians 5:13 and II Corinthians 4:5. D. May we be GOOD STEWARDS of our INFLUENCE, our EXAMPLE BEFORE OTHERS. Let us be SALT and LIGHT so that others can see our GOOD WORKS and GIVE GLORY TO GOD! (Matthew 5:13-16). E. Let us MANAGE the wonderful ABILITIES that each one of us has been given by the LORD! Carefully EXAMINE Romans 12:4-16). 3

4 F. We should be GOOD STEWARDS and MANAGERS of the great OPPORTUNITIES placed in our PATH! (Galatians 6:10) G. Consider carefully the STEWARDSHIP, the proper MANAGEMENT of MONEY! 1. Let us use MONEY and POSSESSIONS WISELY! (Luke 16:11). 2. Our MONEY is NOT REALLY OUR OWN! It COMES FROM GOD! a. The EARTH is the LORD S, and all it contains (Psalm 24:1). b. CONSIDER: In the Old Testament, the nation of ISRAEL was to give the FIRST FRUITS of the land to HELP OTHERS! (Deuteronomy 26:1-11). III. Some FOUNDATIONAL PRINCIPLES concerning our STEWARDSHIP as Christians A. The principle of TRUE OWNERSHIP! 1. GOD has GIVEN US EVERYTHING WE HAVE! We must MANAGE it CIRRECTLY! 2. CONSIDER Psalm 24:1 again. The EARTH is the LORD S and ALL THAT IT CONTAINS! 3. The CATTLE ON A THOUSAND HILLS belong to the LORD (Psalm 50:10). a. Man may say that BY HIS OWN POWER and by the STRENGTH OF HIS OWN HAND he has GAINED WEALTH (Deuteronomy 8:17) b. HOWEVER, it is GOD who gives POWER TO MAKE WEALTH (Deuteronomy 8:18). 4. We MUST BE THANKFUL for what GOD HAS GIVEN US TO MANAGE! We must be GOOD STEWARDS of GOD S GIFTS (Colossians 3:15-17). 5. UNTHANKFULNESS is located in the CONTEXT of TERRIBLE SINS! (Note the verses surrounding Romans 1:21; II Timothy 3:2). 4

5 B. The IMPORTANT PRINCIPLE of RESPONSIBILITY! We are RESPONSIBLE for USING PROPERLY the POSSESSIONS given by OUR MASTER! 1. ADAM and EVE were given RESPONSIBILITY by GOD to MANAGE and TEND the GARDEN OF EDEN (Genesis 2:8-15). 2. It is TRUE that God RICHLY SUPPLIES US WITH ALL THINGS TO ENJOY (I Timothy 6:17). 3. OBSERVE the LACK OF RESPONSIBILITY of STEWARDS or SERVANTS in the following SCRIPTURES: a. The UNJUST STEWARD did NOT ACCEPT and FULFILL the RESPONSIBILITY given to him by his MASTER (Luke 16:1-13). b. The ONE TALENT MAN BURIED his MASTER S MONEY in the EARTH, and did NOT USE IT WISELY (Matthew 25:24-30). 4. CONSIDER the FAILURE TO ACT RESPONSIBLY by those who did NOT PREPARE as noted in the following SCRIPTURE: a. The GUEST at the WEDDING who FAILED to PREPARE the proper WEDDING CLOTHES (Matthew 22:1-14). b. The FIVE FOOLISH VIRGINS who did NOT TAKE ENOUGH OIL (Matthew 25:1-13). C. The IMPORTANT PRINCIPLE of ACCOUNTABILITY! 1. DO YOU AGREE WITH THIS QUOTE? A steward is one who manages the possessions of another. We are all stewards of the resources, abilities and opportunities that God has entrusted to our care, and one day each one of us will be called to give an account for how we have managed what the Master has given us (Hugh Whelchei, Internet Article). 2. Each of us SHALL GIVE ACCOUNT OF HIMSELF TO GOD (Romans 14:11, 12). Read also II Corinthians 5: THEREFORE: EVERY PART OF OUR LIFE IS A STEWARDSHIP! D. The IMPORTANT PRINCIPLE of REWARD! 5

6 1. Paul spoke to slaves. He said that whatever they do, they are to SERVE the LORD CHRIST who gives the REWARD! (Colossians 3:23, 24). 2. Just like the FIVE TALENT MAN and the TWO TALENT MAN, we desire to hear, WELL DONE, GOOD and FAITHFUL SLAVE (Matthew 25:21-23). 3. We desire to hear, Come, you who are blessed of the Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world (Matthew 25:34). 4. CONCLUSION: Let us be good STEWARDS of ALL THAT GOD HAS GIVEN US: a. GOOD STEWARDS of our TIME! b. GOOD STEWARDS of the LABOR OF OUR HANDS! c. GOOD STEWARDS in SERVING OTHERS! d. GOOD STEWARDS of our INFLUENCE and EXAMPLE! e. GOOD STEWARDS of our ABILITIES! f. GOOD STEWARDS of our OPPORTUNITIES! g. GOOD STEWARDS of our MONEY! Etc. 5. PLEASE DISCUSS WHETHER OR NOT THIS QUOTE IS A CORRECT STATEMENT: When the first man and the first woman disobeyed God in Eden, the Lord cried after them, Where art thou? (Gen. 3:9). And ever since, the cry of the ages from Creator to creature has been, Where art thou? This is man s inescapable question. The inquiry was not, where is your money or your time or your interests? But, where are you? God is interested in the total man, and no one area of his life can be marked off so as to say, Here he is a steward, and here he is not. He is a steward of all, or steward not at all. (Hastings, page 3). IV. EXAMINE other SCRIPTURES, such as those given below, which are concerned with proper STEWARDSHIP and the MANAGEMENT of GIFTS which GOD HAS GIVEN US TO USE IN HIS SERVICE! 6

7 A. In his OFFERING to God, DAVID did NOT DESIRE TO OFFER THAT WHICH COST HIM NOTHING (II Samuel 24:24). Please DISCUSS THIS! B. In the Old Testament, CONSIDER the STEWARDSHIP involved in the GIVING that was done to BUILD the TEMPLE (I Chronicles 29:1-19). 1. KING DAVID HIMSELF GAVE according to HIS ABILITY (I Chronicles 29:1, 2). 2. The GIVING was done WILLINGLY! (I Chronicles 29:5, 6, 9). 3. The WHOLE HEART of the people was involved in the GIVING! (I Chronicles 29:9). 4. The people of ISRAEL GAVE GENEROUSLY! (I Chronicles 29:14). 5. The people of ISRAEL recognized that EVERYTHING COMES FROM GOD, and they were simply SOJOURNERS, and LIFE is SHORT! (I Chronicles 29:14, 15) C. Is STEWARDSHIP involved in the following Scriptures? If so, in what way? 1. Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth. But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:19-21). 2..not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions (See Luke 12:15-21). 3. Brethren, even if a man is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness.. (Galatians 6:1). 4. And let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we shall reap if we do not grow weary (Galatians 6:9). REVIEW QUESTIONS ON THE TOPIC OF STEWARDSHIP 1. What is the Biblical MEANING of the word, STEWARD? ( oikonomos ). 2. WHY would the TREASURER of a CITY be called a STEWARD? (Romans 16:23). 3. Please show Scripture which teaches that EVERY CHRISTIAN is a STEWARD. 7

8 4. Suggest Scriptures which teach the proper stewardship of our TIME. 5. Complete this Scripture: Whatever your hand finds to do, do it (Ecclesiastes 9:10). 6. DISCUSS other areas of our LIFE in which we should be GOOD STEWARDS. 7. SUGGEST FOUR FOUNDATIONAL PRINCIPLES concerning STEWARDSHIP which are discussed in the OUTLINE ABOVE. 8. From the PARABLES of JESUS, DISCUSS some of the GOOD and BAD STEWARDS mentioned by our LORD. 9. What is meant by the phrase, The Principle of TRUE OWNERSHIP? 10. DISCUSS the various CHARACTERISTICS of CORRECT STEWARDSHIP which were found in the GIVING of the nation of ISRAEL at the time of the building of the JEWISH TEMPLE (I Chronicles 29:1-19). STEWARDSHIP IN GIVING A STUDY OF THE TEXT OF SECOND CORINTHIANS CHAPTERS 8, 9 I. INTRODUCTORY THOUGHTS concerning this Scripture A. In these chapters, Paul discussed the SPECIAL CONTRIBUTION for POOR CHRISTIANS in JERUSALEM. 1. This is the SAME CONTRIBUTION as the COLLECTION FOR THE SAINTS in I Corinthians 16: Paul and other brothers brought this CONTRIBUTION to Jerusalem. At that time, Paul was ARRESTED. In his defense, the apostle spoke of the ALMS which he brought to his nation (Acts 24:17). 3. It is the SAME CONTRIBUTION concerning which Paul spoke in Romans 15: a. This CONTRIBUTION was given for the POOR AMONG THE SAINTS in JERUSALEM (Romans 15:26). 8

9 b. MACEDONIA, in northern Greece, and ACHAIA in the South were participating in this CONTRIBUTION. See II Corinthians 9:2. This would perhaps include PHILIPPI, THESSALONICA, and BEREA in the North, and certainly CORINTH and CENCHREA in the South. c. Paul had also spoken to the churches of GALATIA concerning this gracious work (I Corinthians 16:1). This would perhaps include the congregations in Antioch of Pisidia, Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe (See Paul and Barnabas in this region during the first mission journey in Acts 13:13-14:26). d. There were TWO SPECIFIC PURPOSES for this CONTRIBUTION being taken to Jerusalem: (1) One PURPOSE was to HELP NEEDY CHRISTIANS (Romans 15:26).. (2) A SECOND PURPOSE was to produce a greater UNITY between JEWISH and GENTILE CHRISTIANS (Romans 15:27). JEWISH CHRISTIANS had brought SPIRITUAL LIFE to the GENTILES through the GOSPEL. NOW, GENTILE CHRISTIANS could assist JEWISH CHRISTIANS with their PHYSICAL NEEDS! B. A PERIOD OF TIME HAD PASSED since Paul had encouraged the Corinthians TO PREPARE THE CONTRIBUTION (II Corinthians 8:10). Evidently, problems in the church had caused this gracious work to be POSTPONED. A SHORT OUTLINE OF SECOND CORINTHIANS EIGHT AND NINE I. The MACEDONIANS had been very LIBERAL in their CONTRIBUTION (II Corinthians 8:1-5). II. The CORINTHIANS were URGED to ABOUND in their CONTRIBUTION (II Corinthians 8:6-15). The greatest of all MOTIVES was given (II Corinthians 8:9). III. Paul RECOMMENDED TITUS to the CORINTHIANS (II Corinthians 8:16-24). 9

10 IV. By being PREPARED, the CORINTHIANS could AVOID EMBARRASSMENT (II Corinthians 9:1-5). V. GOD will ABUNDANTLY BLESS those who give LIBERALLY (II Corinthians 9:6-15). NOTES ON SECOND CORINTHIANS CHAPTER EIGHT I. The MACEDONIANS had been VERY LIBERAL in their GIVING to help NEEDY SAINTS (II Corinthians 8:1-5). They FIRST GAVE THEMSELVES to the LORD! A. NOTE: The MACEDONIANS would include Christians from PHILIPPI, THESSALONICA, and BEREA (Review Acts 16:11-17:15). Paul had also spoken to the churches of GALATIA about this contribution (I Corinthians 16:1-3). B. In the PAST, the Corinthians had been very INTERESTED in helping with this NEED (II Corinthians 9:2), but they had been SLOW in preparing their contribution (II Corinthians 8:10). 1. Perhaps, they had been concentrating on CHALLENGES and PROBLEMS in the church at CORINTH (See II Corinthians 11:7-15; 12:16-18). Is it possible that some at Corinth would think that Paul would PROFIT personally from the CONTRIBUTION? Please discuss this. Also, while at CORINTH, he robbed other churches, and did not burden the Corinthians (II Corinthians 11:8, 9). 2. Paul refused to be a BURDEN to the brothers in Christ. Read I Thessalonians 2:7-9. Often, HE SUPPORTED HIMSELF! Study also Acts 18: Paul was EAGER to assist the POOR (Galatians 2:10). 4. CONSIDER: The GRACE of GOD had been given in the Macedonian churches (II Corinthians 8:1). Notice GRACIOUS WORK BELOW. C. The Macedonian disciples HAD GIVEN LIBERALLY! (II Corinthians 8:2-5). 1. OBSERVE first that Paul did NOT WANT to be DISAPPOINTED by a FAILURE of CORINTH to fulfill their commitment (II Corinthians 9:2-4). 10

11 2. NOTE ALSO: Later, Paul, in prison, would speak of the LIBERALITY of the Philippians who sent help to him (Philippians 4:15-18). Note also that Philippi was in the Province of Macedonia! 3. In their LIBERAL GIVING, the Macedonians imitated God s GRACE. They expressed God s GRACE (II Corinthians 8:1). 4. Paul will call this CONTRIBUTION a GRACIOUS WORK (II Corinthians 8:6, 7, CONSIDER ALSO: This COLLECTION is called a MINISTRY ( diakonon ) or SERVICE, and a FELLOWSHIP ( contribution ) ( koinonian ), a SHARING (Romans 15:26). 6. Paul showed HOW the Macedonians SHARED in God s GRACE (II Corinthians 8:2, 3). a.. OBSERVE that the words, AFFLICTION and POVERTY are found together here (II Corinthians 8:2). This is also true in Revelation 2:9. (1) Their AFFLICTION ( thlipseos ) perhaps, was caused by PERSECUTION. (2) In earlier times, on Paul s second journey, there had been persecution in BOTH PHILIPPI and THESSALONICA. (Acts 16:16-40; 17:1-10). Perhaps, persecution continued! (3) Thessalonica continued to have affliction (I Thessalonians 1:6; 2:14). When Paul came into MACEDONIA on the next journey, HE experienced AFFLICTION (II Corinthians 7:5). b. The MACEDONIANS were in DEEP POVERTY ( bathous ptocheia ) (II Corinthians 8:2), The word, DEEP ( bathous ) is used for the DEPTHS of God s wisdom and knowledge (Romans 11:33). In a literal sense, it also referred to DEEP WATER (Luke 5:4) (A. and G., page 129). c. OBSERVE that there are TWO SETS OF OPPOSITES HERE! (II Corinthians 8:2). (1) There is a CONTRAST in AFFLICTION and JOY! 11

12 There was JOY in the middle of AFFLICTION! Read this also in II Corinthians 7:4 and Colossians 1:24. (2) Two more OPPOSITES are DEEP POVERTY and WEALTH OF LIBERALITY! This is a beautiful example of sacrificial giving! See also Mark 12: d. The word, LIBERALITY ( haplotetos ) means to obey with a sincere heart, and generosity, (A. and G., page 85). Consider its use also in Romans 12:8. e. The Macedonians gave BEYOND THEIR ABILITY ( para dunamin ). (II Corinthians 8:3). (1) This word, dunamis is usually translated POWER. Read II Corinthians 4:7; 12:9. It means might, strength (A. and G., page 207). Observe that it means ABILITY also in Matthew 25:15. (2) It is also translated STRENGTH (II Corinthians 1:8). The Macedonians gave beyond their own POWER or STRENGTH, or ABILITY! f. The Macedonians also gave WILLINGLY, FREELY, OF THEIR OWN ACCORD! NOTE also the willingness of Titus to go to Corinth of his own accord in II Corinthians 8:16, The Macedonian Christians BEGGED to participate in the RELIEF of the SAINTS (II Corinthians 8:4). a. Begging is the common word, paraklesis which is often translated EXHORTATION (A. and G., page 623). Read I Corinthians 14:3; I Timothy 4:13. Here, it means to BEG EARNESTLY! b. The word, FAVOR here is literally GRACE ( charin ). Consider that this CONTRIBUTION was a GRACIOUS WORK! Review II Corinthians 8:6, 7, 19. Truly, they were imitating the grace of Christ! (II Corinthians 8:9) (Thompson, page 111). c. The Macedonians begged to PARTICIPATE ( koinonian ), to have FELLOWSHIP in helping NEEDY SAINTS! 12

13 (1) CONSIDER also that GIVING to help others is referred to as a FELLOWSHIP in Romans 12:13. Contributing to is the word koinonountes, which is sharing or having fellowship. (2) NOTE ALSO that the word, COMMUNION, with reference to the LORD S SUPPER, is the same word, koinonia. It is a SHARING TOGETHER, a FELLOWSHIP! (I Corinthians 10:16, 17). d. The word for RELIEF or SUPPORT of the SAINTS is the word for MINISTRY ( diakonias ). It means to give Aid, support, distribution, especially of alms and charitable giving (A. and G., page 183). Observe this word in Acts 11:29; 12:25. It is also used for helping widows ( daily serving of food ) (Acts 6:1). (1) GOOD STEWARDS in the kingdom of the Lord will always MINISTER to OTHERS (I Peter 4:10). (2) Christians should be SERVANTS ministering to OTHERS (Galatians 5:13; II Corinthians 4:5) e. CONSIDER: The word, SAINTS in this passage and elsewhere in Scripture refers to CHRISTIANS Read also Acts 9:13; Philippians 1:1; Ephesians 3:8; 6:18, etc.. 8. The Macedonians FIRST GAVE THEMSELVES TO THE LORD AND TO PAUL! (II Corinthians 8:5). a. EXAMINE THIS QUOTE: The crowning point of their generosity was their complete self-surrender (Plummer, quoted in Tasker, page 113). b. Paul had urged the Corinthians to LIVE FOR HIM WHO DIED AND ROSE AGAIN! (II Corinthians 5:15). The MACEDONIANS were certainly doing this! c. EXAMINE: When a Christian GIVES HIMSELF to CHRIST, SHARING in a GOOD WORK such as PAUL was doing, is EASY! d. OBSERVE that, in this passage, it was GOD S WILL that the Macedonians SHARE in this GOOD WORK! 13

14 e. STUDY II Corinthians 12:14 in which Paul told the Corinthians that he did NOT WANT THEIR POSSESSIONS! He wanted THEM! (1) He said, I DO NOT SEEK WHAT IS YOURS, BUT YOU! (2) The Macedonians GAVE THEMSELVES completely to PAUL and to PAUL S MINISTRY! This was a wonderful relationship, working together in the kingdom! II. ENCOURAGEMENT to the Corinthians to ABOUND in GIVING (II Corinthians 8:6-15). A. OBSERVE: In this section, PAUL EXPRESSED the GREATEST MOTIVATION for GIVING! (Please read II Corinthians 8:9). B. PAUL urged TITUS to assist CORINTH in completing the CONTRIBUTION, which was a GRACIOUS WORK! (II Corinthians 8:6). 1. TITUS had recently visited CORINTH, and, then, had JOINED PAUL IN MACEDONIA. Examine II Corinthians 2:12-14; and 7: Paul had BOASTED concerning CORINTH, and their PAST INTEREST concerning the CONTRIBUTION (II Corinthians 7:4; 9:2). 3. CORINTH had begun to prepare their CONTRIBUTION ONE YEAR EARLIER or the PREVIOUS YEAR (II Corinthians 8:10). 4. Now, TITUS WOULD RETURN to CORINTH to complete this GRACIOUS WORK. a. REVIEW: This CONTRIBUTION is called GRACE or GRACIOUS WORK also in II Corinthians 8:7, the next verse, and in 8:19. b. This GRACIOUS GIVING would be a RESPONSE to the wonderful GRACE OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST (II Corinthians 8:9). C. PAUL ENCOURAGED the Corinthians to ABOUND in this GRACIOUS WORK (II Corinthians 8:7). 1. From THIS VERSE and OTHER PASSAGES, it seems clear that CORINTH was a TALENTED CHURCH a. They ABOUNDED in FAITH, UTTERANCE, and 14

15 KNOWLEDGE! They had a CONVICTION ( faith ) concerning TRUTH ( knowledge ), and they knew HOW to EXPRESS ( utterance ) that truth. (1) Paul had commended their UTTERANCE or SPEECH and KNOWLEDGE in the PAST (I Corinthians 1:5). (2) Paul had also emphasized that KNOWLEDGE can make a person arrogant, but LOVE edifies (I Corinthians 8;1, 2). b. The Corinthians had also ABOUNDED in EARNESTNESS! ( spoude ). This word means, eagerness and diligence (A. and G., page 771). Read also II Corinthians 7:11. c. The Corinthians also ABOUNDED in LOVE ( aga pe ) which Paul had inspired in them through his own actions. REVIEW that LOVE will edify, or build up (I Corinthians 8:1, 2). Review also Paul s teaching on LOVE in I Corinthians 13: Paul wanted them also to ABOUND in the GRACE, or gracious work of helping brothers and sisters in NEED! By doing this, they were responding to the wonderful GRACE OF GOD! a. This word, abound ( perisseuete ) means more than enough, and to overflow (A. and G., page 656). b. Note the use of this word in the overflowing of THANKSGVING in II Corinthians 9:12, and abounding in the work of the Lord in I Corinthians 15:58. D. Paul was PROVING the SINCERITY of the LOVE of the Corinthians (II Corinthians 8:8). 1. The apostle Paul was NOT COMMANDING them to do this gracious work! Paul would NOT LORD IT OVER THEIR FAITH! (II Corinthians 1:24). He was a fellow worker with them! He would only give his ADVICE! See II Corinthians 8:10 below and I Corinthians 7:6, 25 where Paul again gave HIS ADVICE or OPINION. 2. Paul was using the EXAMPLE, the ENTHUSIASM of the MACEDONIANS to TEST the LOVE of the Corinthian disciples. NOTE that Paul used the phrase, THROUGH THE EARNESTNESS OF OTHERS. 15

16 3. CONSIDER also that, in Scripture, LOVE must be expressed in ACTION! Examine Galatians 5:6 and I John 3: E. JESUS is the SUPREME EXAMPLE and MOTIVATION for GIVING (II Corinthians 8:9). 1. NOTE that the GRACE OF GOD appeared bringing SALVATION to ALL MEN! (Titus 2:11). Salvation came by GRACE through Jesus! 2. The GRACE of the LORD is seen in the INCARNATION of Jesus (John 1:14). 3. JESUS became POOR by becoming FLESH! a. He EMPTIED HIMSELF and, as man, took the FORM of a SLAVE! (Philippians 2:5). He left the GLORY that He had with the Father! Examine John 17:5. He was RICH in sharing this GLORY with the Father! b. QUOTE: The Christ became poor in the act of becoming man (Tasker, page 115). c. As a MAN, He HUMBLED HIMSELF and DIED ON THE CROSS! (Philippians 2:8). God s GRACE was PERFECTED! d. Even though Paul is emphasizing the INCARNATION here, it is also TRUE that, in the FLESH, the Son of man had nowhere to lay His head (Luke 9:58). 4. Through the POVERTY of JESUS, disciples of JESUS become RICH! a. The disciples of Christ in SMYRNA were PHYSICALLY POOR, but SPIRITUALLY RICH! (Revelation 2:8, 9). b. The LUKEWARM disciples at LAODICEA were SPIRITUALLY POOR (Revelation 3:17). c. Christians have EVERY SPIRITUAL BLESSING in Christ (Ephesians 1:3, 4). 5. NOTE: This Scripture teaches the PRE-EXISTENCE of CHRIST! He was RICH, but became POOR! He was WITH THE FATHER BEFORE COMING TO EARTH! 16

17 a. He WAS RICH, but, FOR YOUR SAKE. He EMPTIED HIMSELF (Read Philippians 2:5-8 again). b. During His ministry on earth, Jesus said, Before Abraham was born, I am (John 8:58). c. CONSIDER that THROUGH CHRIST, ALL THINGS WERE CREATED (Colossians 1:14-17), Read also John 1:1-3; and Hebrews 1:1-3. d. OBSERVE ALSO that Jesus PRAYED to His Father, shortly before His betrayal, Glorify Thou Me together with Thyself. with the glory which I had with Thee before the world was (John 17:5). F. The CORINTHIANS had been ENTHUSIASTIC, and had begun this GRACIOUS WORK a YEAR AGO (II Corinthians 8:10). They had begun to prepare, but also TO DESIRE TO DO IT! 1. The phrase, A YEAR AGO ( apo perusi ) may also be translated LAST YEAR (A. and G., page 659). 2. Again, Paul DID NOT COMMAND, but ADVISED the Corinthians to complete the work. Read again II Corinthians 8:8. G. Paul ENCOURAGED the Corinthians to FINISH the CONTRIBUTION (II Corinthians 8:11). 1. NOTE AGAIN that Paul had BOASTED to the Macedonians concerning the EARLY DESIRE of the Corinthians to assist (II Corinthians 9:2). 2. Paul encouraged them to COMPLETE THIS WORK out of THEIR ABILITY. We remember that the MACEDONIANS had gone BEYOND THEIR ABILITY (II Corinthians 8:3). H. If there is a READINESS or WILLINGNESS, God ACCEPTS WHAT CHRISTIANS HAVE, NOT WHAT THEY DO NOT HAVE! (II Corinthians 8:12). 1. The word READINESS ( prothumia ) suggests a ZEAL to do something (A. and G., page 713). If there is that ZEAL for a good work, God will accept it! Examine the word, READINESS also in II Corinthians 8:19. 17

18 2. EXAMINE THIS: The POOR WIDOW GAVE WHAT SHE HAD! (Mark 12:41-44). A person CANNOT GIVE what he DOES NOT HAVE! I. Paul desired to PROMOTE the principle of EQUALITY! (II Corinthians 8:13-15). 1. Perhaps, Paul s opponents at CORINTH were saying that JEWISH Christians would take advantage of GENTILE congregations just to get MONEY from them. Examine II Corinthians 12: CONSIDER that, AFTER PENTECOST, the church in JERUSALEM did MUCH BENEVOLENT WORK! (Acts 2:44-46;l 4:32-37; 6:1-6). Christians WERE HELPING CHRISTIANS! This was FELLOWSHIP! They SHARED! To share things IN COMMON ( koina ) (Acts 2:44) is the SAME ROOT WORD as FELLOWSHIP ( koinonia ). 3. Paul did NOT want OTHERS TO BE AT EASE and, at the same time, for CORINTH to be afflicted ( thlipsis ) (II Corinthians 8:13). He wanted SHARING to take place so that ALL WOULD HAVE WHAT THEY NEEDED! This is Biblical EQUALITY! Observe the word, AFFLICTION also in II Corinthians 8:2 concerning MACEDONIA.. 4. REVIEW the TWO PURPOSES of this CONTRIBUTION in Romans 15: NOTE these PURPOSES also in the INTRODUCTION to this BOOKLET. 5. In the FUTURE, perhaps, CORINTH might be in NEED OF HELP, and JEWISH CONGREGATIONS could ASSIST THEM (II Corinthians 8:14). a. It is recognized that the Corinthian Christians would NOT be considered RICH! Examine First Corinthians 1:26. b. HOWEVER, it is perhaps true that CORINTH had greater FINANCIAL RESOURCES and possessions than the MACEDONIANS! 6. Paul used as AN EXAMPLE, the MANNA which the Israelites ATE in the WILDERNESS of WANDERING (II Corinthians 8:15). a. The apostle referred in the passage to Exodus 16:16-18 when he said, He who gathered much did NOT have too much! b. AND, He who gathered LITTLE had NO LACK! ALL WERE BLESSED! This is BIBLICAL EQUALITY! Paul wanted BOTH 18

19 the NEEDY SAINTS in JERUSALEM and the CORINTHIANS to be BLESSED! c. EXAMINE THIS QUOTE: It was as though God used the superfluity that some seemed to possess to make up the deficiencies of those who appeared to have too little. (Tasker, page 118). (Our Underlining). III. PAUL RECOMMENDED TITUS to the CORINTHIANS (II Corinthians 8:16-24). A. TITUS had an EARNEST CARE ( spoude ) in his HEART for the CORINTHIANS (II Corinthians 8:16). GOD PUT IT THERE! NOTE ALSO TIMOTHY S CONCERN for the welfare of the PHILIPPIANS (Philippians 2:19-21). 1. OBSERVE FIRST : Paul will mention that TWO BROTHERS in Christ would go with TITUS to CORINTH (Read II Corinthians 8:18, 22). 2. REVIEW ALSO that the CORINTHIANS had ABOUNDED in their EARNESTNESS and EAGERNESS (II Corinthians 8:7). Consider also II Corinthians 7: TITUS had this SAME EARNESTNESS and EAGERNESS in his HEART! STUDY this word, EARNESTNESS or DILIGENCE or MAKING EVERY EFFORT in Hebrews 6:11; Romans 12:11; II Peter 1:5; Jude 3. Let us be EARNEST in our service in the Lord s KINGDOM! 4. CONSIDER the feelings of the CORINTHIANS concerning PAUL! When TITUS joined Paul in MACEDONIA, he spoke of the LONGING, the MOURNING, the ZEAL that the CORINTHIANS had FOR PAUL! (II Corinthians 7:7). Also, see the EARNESTNESS here! B. NOW, TITUS was RETURNING to CORINTH OF HIS OWN ACCORD, or his own FREE WILL! (II Corinthians 8:17). 1. NOTE also that the MACEDONIANS had given of their OWN ACCORD (II Corinthians 8:3). They gave WILLINGLY and VOLUNTARILY! 2. A related word to the one used here means VOLUNTARILY! (A. and G., page 120). TITUS really DESIRED to RETURN TO CORINTH! C. A WELL-KNOWN and RESPECTED BROTHER was one of the COMPANIONS of TITUS on the JOURNEY to CORINTH (II Corinthians 8:18). There will also be A SECOND COMPANION (II Corinthians 8:22). 19

20 1. This brother was a GOSPEL PREACHER, possibly in MACEDONIA where PAUL was LOCATED at the time of writing. See II Corinthians 2: BOTH of these UNNAMED BROTHERS may have been a part of the GROUP which accompanied PAUL to TROAS and then to JERUSALEM with the CONTRIBUTION (Examine Acts 20:1-4). 3. SOME WRITERS have thought that this BROTHER in 8:18 might be LUKE, but, this is UNCERTAIN! It is true that LUKE remained in PHILIPPI on the SECOND JOURNEY! This is clearly seen in the WE passages in Acts 16:16, 17 and the THEY passages in 17:1, 10, etc. 4. The FAME ( epainos ) of this BROTHER in the things of the gospel had spread THROUGH ALL THE CHURCHES! a. This word, epainos means PRAISE, APPROVAL, RECOGNITION (A. and G., page 281). b. This word is translated, PRAISE in I Peter 2:14, the PRAISE of those who do right and Romans 2:29,.His PRAISE is not from men, but from God. D. This GOOD BROTHER was APPOINTED by the CHURCHES to travel with PAUL and OTHERS (II Corinthians 8:19). 1. This BROTHER was to assist with the CONTRIBUTION, this GRACIOUS WORK! Examine again II Corinthians 8:6, 7 for the words, GRACE or GRACIOUS WORK. 2. NOTE ALSO the MESSENGERS ( apostoloi ) of the CHURCHES BELOW (II Corinthians 8:23). 3. TWO WONDERFUL RESULTS coming from this work of GRACE: a. This GRACIOUS WORK was FOR THE GLORY OF THE LORD HIMSELF! Consider that whatever we do, let us DO IT FOR THE GLORY OF GOD! (I Corinthians 10:31). b. Another RESULT or OUTCOME would be to SHOW the READINESS of PAUL The apostle was EAGER to HELP THE POOR!. Review Galatians 2:10. The Corinthians needed this READINESS (II Corinthians 8:12). 20

21 E. PAUL did NOT WANT ANYONE TO DISCREDIT him with respect to this GENEROUS GIFT (II Corinthians 8:20). 1. The apostle PAUL was NOT MISUSING THESE FUNDS! He had been helped in the PAST by OTHER CONGREGATIONS, those in MACEDONIA, but NOT CORINTH! He had NOT TAKEN MONEY from them (II Corinthians 11:7-9). Read also II Corinthians 2: PAUL emphasized the NEED for Christians to LIVE A BLAMELESS LIFE! (Ephesians 1:4; 5:27; Philippians 2:15). He practiced what he preached! 3. The word, DISCREDIT ( momesetai ) means, find fault with, censure, blame (A. and G., page 532). Paul wanted to be VERY CAREFUL so that EVERYONE KNEW that the CONTRIBUTION was being used honestly. 4. The word, GENEROUS ( hadroteti ) in this passage means, ABUNDANT or LAVISH GIFT (A. and G., page 18). F. Paul truly wanted to be HONORABLE ( kala ) in the SIGHT OF THE LORD and in the SIGHT OF MEN! (II Corinthians 8:21). 1. In this verse, Paul was referring to Proverbs 3:4. Christians should have a good reputation BOTH in the sight of the LORD and in the sight of all MEN! This word, honorable means morally good, noble, praiseworthy (A. and G., page 401). 2. This word is translated,.what is RIGHT in the sight of all men in Romans 12:17. CONSIDER: Christians are to be SALT and LIGHT BEFORE MEN (Matthew 5:13-16). 3. EXAMINE THIS QUOTE: It is a foolish pride which leads to a disregard of public opinion (Hodge, quoted in Tasker, page 121). G. The SECOND UNNAMED BROTHER going to CORINTH had been DILIGENT in many things (II Corinthians 8:22). 1. This well-known word, DILIGENT ( spoudaion ) means active, zealous, earnest (Thayer, page 585). OBSERVE that Paul also used this word earnest to describe TITUS in II Corinthians 8: This anonymous BROTHER was even MORE DILIGENT in his CONFIDENCE concerning the CORINTHIANS! 21

22 a. Perhaps, the ENTHUSIASM of TITUS had caused this brother s CONFIDENCE concerning CORINTH to INCREASE! b. A QUOTE FROM BROTHER IRA NORTH: Enthusiasm is as powerful as DYNAMITE and as CONTAGIOUS as MEASLES! H. TITUS was Paul s PARTNER ( koinonos ) and FELLOW WORKER ( sunergos ) and the BROTHERS going with Titus were the MESSENGERS ( apostoloi ) of the CHURCHES (II Corinthians 8:23). 1. The word, PARTNER ( koinonos ) is from the SAME WORD as FELLOWSHIP ( koinonia ). a. CONSIDER that FISHERMEN on the Sea of Galilee were PARTNERS in FISHING! (Luke 5:10). Then, they became partners as FISHERS OF MEN! (Matthew 4:19). b. PHILEMON was also Paul s PARTNER! in the gospel (Philemon 17). 2. The UNNAMED BROTHERS were MESSENGERS ( apostoloi ) of the CHURCHES! a. The TWELVE APOSTLES were disciples SENT OUT by CHRIST! They were truly Apostles of Christ (See Mark 3:14). b. In a general sense, these BROTHERS were disciples SENT OUT ( apostoloi ) by CONGREGATIONS! Examine I Corinthians 16:3. c. EPAPHRODITUS was also the messenger ( apostolon ), the brother SENT OUT from the CHURCH at Philippi (Philippians 2:25). 3. The ACTIONS of ALL of these brothers would BRING GLORY to Christ! a. OBSERVE that man is to be the Image and GLORY of God b. By the GOOD WORKS of His people, GLORY is brought also to the FATHER in heaven (Matthew 5:16). Consider PRAISE and GLORY found in Ephesians 1:6, 12, 14. c. RIGHTEOUS CHARACTER and ACTION will bring GLORY to GOD, the FATHER, and to CHRIST the SON! 22

23 I. The Corinthians were urged to show the VISITING BROTHERS the PROOF OF YOUR LOVE (II Corinthians 8:24). 1. Paul had BOASTED to TITUS concerning the CORINTHIANS (II Corinthians 7:4, 14). And, in this, Paul had NOT been PUT TO SHAME! 2. NOW, the Corinthians could DEMONSTRATE and show PROOF ( endeixin ) of their genuine LOVE ( agapes ). 3. The prepared CONTRIBUTION of the Corinthians would show their LOVE for CHRIST, for PAUL, and for the JUDEAN CHURCHES! Examine I John 3: REVIEW QUESTIONS ON SECOND CORINTHIANS CHAPTER EIGHT 1. GIVE all the Scriptures where this SPECIAL COLLECTION for POOR SAINTS in JUDEA is mentioned or DISCUSSED. 2. What would HAPPEN to the apostle Paul at the time that he and others would take this CONTRIBUTION to Jerusalem? 3. Christians in the provinces of MACEDONIA and ACHAIA participated in this CONTRIBUTION. Which CITIES in these provinces might have GIVEN? 4. GIVE TWO SPECIFIC PURPOSES for this contribution which are indicated in Romans 15: Which GROUP OF CHRISTIANS had been a BEAUTIFUL EXAMPLE of GIVING? (II Corinthians 8:1-5). Discuss CHARACTERISTICS of these brothers and sisters which can be an ENCOURAGEMENT to US in OUR GIVING. 6. WHY, perhaps, were the Corinthians SLOW in PREPARING their CONTRIBUTION? 7. This CONTRIBUTION is called and described BY WHAT OTHER WORDS or TERMS in Second Corinthians 8 and 9? 8. What was the PHYSICAL CONDITION of the MACEDONIANS at the time of their LIBERAL GIVING? 9. SUGGEST TWO OPPOSITES which are found in II Corinthians 8:1, 2. 23

24 10. For WHAT did the Macedonians BEG? (II Corinthians 8:4). 11. TO WHOM did the Macedonians GIVE THEMSELVES? (II Corinthians 8:5). 12. What is the GREATEST MOTIVE for us to GIVE LIBERALLY? (II Corinthians 8:9). 13. Which BROTHER IN CHRIST had recently come from CORINTH, and would soon RETURN to that CITY? (II Corinthians 2:12-14; 7:5-7; 8:6, 16, 17). 14. What causes us to believe that the Christians in CORINTH were very TALENTED people? (II Corinthians 8:7). 15. What was PAUL earnestly trying to TEST or PROVE? (II Corinthians 8:8). Please APPLY THIS TO US concerning OUR GIVING! 16. HOW did JESUS become POOR so that we can be RICH? (II Corinthians 8:9). 17. DISCUSS the BENEVOLENCE done by the Jerusalem church which is recorded in the book of ACTS. 18. HOW MANY BROTHERS would accompany TITUS to CORINTH? (II Corinthians 8:18, 22). 19. GIVE TWO GOOD RESULTS coming from this GRACIOUS WORK of GIVING (II Corinthians 8:19). 20. Paul desired to LIVE AN HONORABLE LIFE in the sight of and in the sight of (II Corinthians 8:21). 21. How is TITUS described in II Corinthians 8:23? 22. IN WHAT SENSE did Paul call these brothers, APOSTLES? ( apostoloi ) (II Corinthians 8:23). NOTES ON SECOND CORINTHIANS CHAPTER NINE IV. The CORINTHIANS should be prepared to GIVE, and, therefore, they would AVOID being PUT TO SHAME! (II Corinthians 9:1-5). A. NOTE that Paul REPEATED in CHAPTER NINE some of the very IMPORTANT 24

25 TEACHING found in CHAPTER EIGHT! TRUTH must be EMPHASIZED and REPEATED (II Corinthians 9:1). 1. This word, SUPERFLUOUS ( perisson ) means, going beyond what is necessary, unnecessary (A. and G., page 657). 2. OBSERVE that Paul, in this verse, called the CONTRIBUTION a MINISTRY ( diakonias ) to the SAINTS! This word is translated RELIEF in II Corinthians 8:4 and ADMINISTRATION in II Corinthians 8: ASSISTING NEEDY PEOPLE is truly a MINISTRY! a. CONSIDER that GIVING MONEY to assist those in NEED is called a MINISTRY in Acts 11:29 and Romans 15:31. It is an important PART of SERVING OTHERS! b. JESUS came to SERVE, and His disciples SERVE! (Matthew 20:20-28; Luke 22:26, 27; Galatians 5:13). B. Paul had BOASTED to the MACEDONIANS concerning the READINESS of ACHAIA since LAST YEAR (II Corinthians 9:2). 1. ACHAIA was the SOUTHERN PROVINCE of GREECE and included the cities of CORINTH, CENCHREA, and ATHENS 2. The term, A YEAR AGO ( apo perusi ) may also mean, LAST YEAR and does NOT necessarily mean 12 MONTHS (A. and G., page 659). REVIEW also II Corinthians 8: OBSERVE also that READINESS ( prothumia ) was mentioned by PAUL in II Corinthians 8: The ZEAL of CORINTH had STIRRED UP ( erethisen ) many of the MACEDONIANS to give. Corinth had been an encouraging example (A. and G., page 308). C. Paul gave a REASON for sending the TWO BROTHERS (Review II Corinthians 8:18, 22) WITH TITUS TO CORINTH (II Corinthians 9:3). 1. These BROTHERS were sent so that Paul s BOASTING about CORINTH S PREPARATION would NOT BE MADE EMPTY! 25

26 2. The word, EMPTY means hollow or to render void, of no effect (A. and G., page 429). Notice its use in the statement that the CROSS of Christ should not be made VOID (I Corinthians 1:17). 3. If the Corinthians would PREPARE the CONTRIBUTION, Paul s boasting would be JUSTIFIED, NOT EMPTY and VOID! D. IF some MACEDONIANS would go with Paul to CORINTH, and the Corinthian CONTRIBUTION were NOT PREPARED, many would be PUT TO SHAME! (II Corinthians 9:4). 1. The phrase, PUT TO SHAME ( kataaischunthomen ) means HUMILIATED (A. and G., page 411). Examine this word in Luke 13:17; I Corinthians 1:27 and I Peter 3: If Corinth had NOT prepared the CONTRIBUTION, Paul would be HUMILIATED after being so confident (Revised Standard Version). The New English Bible says, After all the confidence we have shown. E. The BROTHERS, discussed above, WERE SENT AHEAD TO CORINTH to prepare the BOUNTIFUL GIFT ( eulogia ) (II Corinthians 9:5). 1. The Greek word, eulogia is sometimes translated BLESSING in the New Testament (A. and G., page 323). A BOUNTIFUL GIFT would certainly be a blessing to those who were suffering with physical HARDSHIP! a. This word refers to SPIRITUAL BLESSINGS in Ephesians 1:3. b. This word is also used for a BLESSING from God in Hebrews 6:7 2. Paul wanted the CONTRIBUTION of the Corinthians to be a BOUNTIFUL GIFT NOT affected by any GREEDINESS of people who might GIVE GRUDGINGLY! a. CONSIDER the condemnation of COVETOUSNESS ( pleonexian ) or GREEDINESS in Ephesians 4:19; 5:3; Colossians 3:5. b. Paul did NOT WANT the CONTRIBUTION to be GIVEN GRUDGINGLY with a belief that PRESSURE had been felt by the GIVERS. See II Corinthians 9:6, 7, the NEXT VERSES. 26

27 c. LIBERAL GIVING should be stimulated or encouraged by a proper understanding of GOD S GIFT of His SON (John 3:16). V. GOD WILL BLESS RICHLY THOSE WHO GIVE LIBERALLY (II Corinthians 9:6-15). A. It is a MISTAKE to believe that, when one GIVES LIBERALLY, he will SUFFER PHYSICAL HARDSHIP LATER (II Corinthians 9:6). 1. In this verse, Paul is evidently thinking of Proverbs 11:24, 25; and 22:8, 9. Please READ these Scriptures. Review also II Corinthians 8: NOTE: The GENEROUS PERSON will be REPAID! (Proverbs 19:17). 3. CONSIDER THE STATEMENT OF JESUS: Give and it will be given to you, good measure, pressed down. (Luke 6:38). B. GIVING with which GOD IS PLEASED is GIVING which COMES FROM THE HEART ( kardia ) (II Corinthians 9:7). 1. The word, PURPOSE ( proeretai ) means to Undertake, determine, decide, make up one s mind (A. and G., page 700). PURPOSE in one s HEART! 2. The Corinthians needed to GIVE LIBERALLY and should NOT be HESITANT or RELUCTANT in their giving! We should DO THE SAME! a. The word, GRUDGINGLY ( lupes ) is the word for SORROW, and GRIEF.PAIN of mind or spirit (A. and G., page 483). NOTE that Paul did NOT WANT to go to Corinth in SORROW ( lupes ) AGAIN! (II Corinthians 2:1). b. However, in this passage, this word means that disciples must NOT give RELUCTANTLY c. Also, those who GIVE should NOT FEEL that they are being FORCED or COMPELLED to GIVE! This word is translated COMPULSION or NECESSITY in I Corinthians 9: GOD LOVES A CHEERFUL ( ilaron ) GIVER! The Lord wants disciples to give GLADLY (A. and G., page 376). A form of this word was used by Paul when he urged those who showed MERCY to do it with cheerfulness (Romans 12:8). 27

28 C. GOD was able to BLESS the Corinthians so that they would have an ABUNDANCE in life to accomplish EVERY GOOD DEED (II Corinthians 9:8). 1. The Lord is able to provide SELF-SUFFICIENCY ( autarkeian ) for the Christian. This word is also translated CONTENTMENT (I Timothy 6:6). 2. In whatever state or circumstance he was found, PAUL had learned to be CONTENT or self-sufficient (Philippians ). 3. The word, GRACE ( charin ) in this passage may also be translated blessing. God blesses His people so that they can show grace to others! 4. REVIEW: This CONTRIBUTION for NEEDY SAINTS is called GRACE or a GRACIOUS WORK in II Corinthians 8:6, 7, CONCLUSION: When God s people GIVE LIBERALLY, He blesses them so that they can have an ABUNDANCE for EVERY GOOD WORK! D. OBSERVE that Paul QUOTED SCRIPTURE in order to show that the GENEROUS GIVER will be BLESSED BY GOD! (II Corinthians 9:9). 1. HOWEVER, OBSERVE FIRST: Some of the Corinthians may have said that GENEROUS GIVING would bring FUTURE PHYSICAL HARDSHIP for them! 2. Paul quoted Psalm 112:9: He has given freely to the poor; His righteousness endures forever. The Psalmist also said, The generation of the upright will be blessed and wealth would be in his house (Psalm 112:1-3). 3. The word, RIGHTEOUSNESS ( dikaiosune ) in II Corinthians 9:9 can mean, MERCY, or CHARITABLENESS (A. and G., page195). Practicing righteousness can also refer to ALMSGIVING! (Matthew 6:1, 2). 4. EXAMINE THIS QUOTE:.The righteous man, who desires to express his righteousness in beneficence, will never lack the means of doing it (Tasker, page 127). IS THIS ALWAYS TRUE? Is there any EXCEPTION? E. GOD will INCREASE the RESOURCES of the LIBERAL GIVER (II Corinthians 9:10) 28

29 1. GOD provides Seed for the sower and bread for the eater (Isaiah 55:10). NOTE that in II Corinthians 9:10, Paul is referring to THIS VERSE. 2. GOD will Increase the HARVEST of your RIGHTEOUSNESS! This is the OPPOSITE of SOWING SPARINGLY! (Review II Corinthians 9:6). 3. CONSIDER that Paul used this FARMING PRINCIPLE concerning EVANGELISM in I Corinthians 3:6, 7. GOD GIVES THE INCREASE! Study Hosea 10:12. LET US TEACH LIBERAL GIVING! 4. In this passage, II Corinthians 9:10, the word, RIGHTEOUSNESS again refers to HELPING THE POOR, the NEEDY SAINTS! GOD BLESSES THE LIBERAL GIVER! F. Through God s BOUNTIFUL BLESSINGS, disciples will have what they need to HELP OTHERS! (II Corinthians 9:11). 1. THIS VERSE is somewhat of a SUMMARY or CONCLUSION to what PAUL has said previously. 2. AS A REVIEW, the word LIBERALITY ( haplotes ) means GENEROSITY, BUT, it also means SINCERITY or SINGLENESS OF HEART. Note this latter meaning in Colossians 3:22. See also the NOTES ABOVE on II Corinthians 8:2. The Corinthians would be ENRICHED for their LIBERALITY, their sincere purpose of heart! 3. This LIBERALITY of the Corinthians would be COMPLETED THROUGH US! This last phrase would refer to Paul, and also to his companions who would take the CONTRIBUTION to Jerusalem (Read Acts 20:1-6; I Corinthians 16:3, 4). They would COMPLETE IT! 4. Out of this GRACIOUS CONTRIBUTION would come THANKSGIVING TO GOD! Certainly, the RECIPIENTS, the JUDEAN CHURCHES, would be SO THANKFUL TO GOD! However, Paul, the messengers of the churches, and even the MACEDONIANS and the CORINTHIANS would be THANKFUL that they could SHARE in this MINISTRY! a. The GRACE of God produces THANKSGIVING to God to His GLORY (II Corinthians 4:15). b. The life of the disciple of Christ should be filled with 29

30 THANKSGIVING! Read also the NEXT VERSES, II Corinthians 9:12, 15. Also, see THANKFULNESS in EACH VERSE in Colossians 3: G. Paul gave TWO REASONS for the Corinthians to GIVE LIBERALLY (II Corinthians 9:12). 1. However, OBSERVE FIRST that Paul called the CONTRIBUTION the MINISTRY of this SERVICE ( he diakonia tes leitourgias ). a. REVIEW: BENEVOLENT WORK is considered a MINISTRY ( diakonia ) of the CHURCH (II Corinthians 8:4; 9:1, 12, 13, also Acts 11:29). b. The word, SERVICE ( leitourgia ) is also used concerning the COLLECTION in Romans 15:27 when Paul said, MINISTER ( leitourgesai ) to them in material things. c. In the Old Testament, this word was used for the ceremonies performed by a LEVITICAL PRIEST. As PRIESTS, they performed a public service (A. and G., page 471). d. In the New Testament, Christians make up a ROYAL PRIESTHOOD and they offer SERVICE to God and others. Read I Peter 2:5, 9. e. This word is also used for the SERVICE of EPAHRODITUS assisting the APOSTLE PAUL (Philippians 2:25). He was a MINISTER ( leitourgon ) to Paul s NEED! Therefore, helping the NEEDY SAINTS was also this kind of SERVICE! 2. NOW, CONSIDER the TWO REASONS Paul gave the Corinthians for practicing LIBERAL GIVING: (II Corinthians 9:12). a. First, they would be SUPPLYING THE NEEDS OF THE SAINTS! Review also II Corinthians 8:14. b. Second, there would be an OVERFLOWING through many thanksgivings to God 3. NOTE that the MACEDONIANS had OVERFLOWED ( eperisseusen ) in the WEALTH of their LIBERALITY (II Corinthians 8:2). 30

31 4. EXAMINE: An OVERFLOWING of LIBERALITY will result in an OVERFLOWING of THANKSGIVING! H. Because of the OBEDIENCE of the Corinthians to their CONFESSION of the GOSPEL of Christ, the SAINTS would GLORIFY GOD! (II Corinthians 9:13). 1. The CONTRIBUTION would be PROOF or a TEST ( dokimes ) of the sincerity of their religion (Tasker, page 128). a. The word, PROOF ( dokimes ) here means a TEST of the approved character of your service (A. and G., page 201). b. The word, MINISTRY ( diakonias ) is used here again. HELPING THE POOR is truly a CHRISTIAN MINISTRY! c. EXAMINE THIS: The MINISTRY of a disciple is a beautiful RESPONSE to the MINISTRY of the Lord Jesus (Matthew 20:20-28). d. The TRUE disciple will MINISTER even in a condition of opposition and WEAKNESS! (II Corinthians 12:9, 10). 2. The Corinthians would GLORIFY GOD in this MINISTRY of HELPING the POOR. However, in this verse, the JUDEAN CHURCHES who received this GRACE would also give GLORY to God. Review II Corinthians 8:19, The OBEDIENCE of the Corinthians would be a demonstration of their CONFESSION ( homologias ) of the gospel of Christ. a. Perhaps, Paul is speaking of the CONFESSION of the Corinthians before they were BAPTIZED (See I Timothy 6:12; Hebrews 3:1; 4:14, etc.). b. However, disciples CONFESS Christ during THEIR ENTIRE LIFE, BOTH by WORD OF MOUTH and by their ACTIONS! Note again the phrase,.for your OBEDIENCE to your CONFESSION!. 4. CONSIDER: The word, CONTRIBUTION in this passage (9:13) is literally the word for FELLOWSHIP! ( koinonias ). 31

32 a. Their LIBERAL GIVING was truly CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP! It was SHARING with others. See the FELLOWSHIP of the Philippians in ASSISTING PAUL (Philippians 4:15-18). b. AGAIN: The word, CONTRIBUTION in Romans 15:26 is also the word FELLOWSHIP! ( koinonian ). c. One NOBLE PURPOSE of this CONTRIBUTION was to bring JEWISH and GENTILE DISCIPLES into a CLOSER FELLOWSHIP (Romans 15:27). 5. DO YOU AGREE WITH THIS QUOTE?.What Paul is saying is that the Jerusalem saints will glorify God particularly for the signs of sincere Christian fellowship shown to them by the Corinthians in making their contribution (Tasker, page 129). 6. The needy SAINTS would GLORIFY GOD also for the LIBERALITY of this CONTRIBUTION TO THEM AND TO ALL! Perhaps, OTHER CHRISTIANS might also be benefited! I. The CONTRIBUTION, even though not yet completed, had already caused the JEWISH CHRISTIANS in JUDEA to LONG FOR, or YEARN FOR and PRAY for the Corinthians (II Corinthians 9:14). 1. From this passage, it is clearly seen that this CONTRIBUTION was already bringing the JEWISH and GENTILE Christians CLOSER TOGETHER! (See again Romans 15:25-27). 2. NOTE how Paul had LABORED in the past to bring together these TWO GROUPS of disciples (Acts 15:1-33; Galatians 2:1-10). 3. OBSERVE from this verse that this MINISTRY was an expression of the GRACE OF GOD demonstrated by the GIVING of the Corinthians (Read again II Corinthians 8:1). J. Paul gave THANKS to God for His INDESCRIBABLE GIFT (II Corinthians 9:15). (A. and G., page 63). 1. Certainly, we CANNOT ADEQUATELY DESCRIBE the wonderful GRACE of GOD which is seen in His PLAN OF REDEMPTION! 2. We CANNOT ADEQUATELY DESCRIBE how JESUS became POOR by 32

33 coming to EARTH so that we might become RICH (II Corinthians 8:9). Read also Ephesians 5:1, 2. REVIEW QUESTIONS ON SECOND CORINTHIANS CHAPTER NINE 1. In II Corinthians 9:1, Paul called this CONTRIBUTION, This to the saints. In WHAT OTHER SCRIPTURES is this word used concerning HELPING THE NEEDY? 2. The former ZEAL of the Corinthians had stirred up WHAT GROUP OF PEOPLE? (II Corinthians 9:2). 3. WHY was Paul SENDING THE BROTHERS to CORINTH? (II Corinthians 9:3). 4. If some Macedonians would accompany Paul to CORINTH, and the Corinthians would NOT BE READY TO GIVE, who would be PUT TO SHAME? (II Corinthians 9:4). 5. What is the ordinary meaning of BOUNTIFUL GIFT or bounty ( eulogia ) in II Corinthians 9:5? 6. DISCUSS the truth that LIBERAL GIVING does NOT bring PHYSICAL HARDSHIP to the GIVER (II Corinthians 9:6). 7. IN WHAT WAY is our HEART involved in GIVING? And, WHAT KIND of GIVER does GOD LOVE? (II Corinthians 9:7). 8. HOW does GOD BLESS the LIBERAL GIVER? (II Corinthians 9:8, 9). 9. DISCUSS this statement: The righteous man WHO GIVES will NOT LACK the RESOURCES TO DO IT! DO YOU AGREE? (II Corinthians 9:9-11). 10. GIVE TWO MEANINGS for the word, LIBERALITY. 11. When this CONTRIBUTION was SHARED with NEEDY SAINTS, who would be THANKFUL? 12. Give TWO REASONS for the Corinthians to give LIBERALLY which are found in II Corinthians 9:12. 33