II Corinthians 9:2
A plain-spoken deep dive on this verse. Read the chapter →
For 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.
Commentaries
Excerpts gathered from published commentaries to ground the reading.
ready a year ago--to send off the money, owing to the apostle's former exhortation (Co1 16:1-2). your zeal--Greek, "the zeal from you," that is, on your part; propagated from you to others. provoked--that is, stimulated. very many--Greek, "the greater number," namely, of the Macedonians.
Open source ↗In this chapter the apostle seems to excuse his earnestness in pressing the Corinthians to the duty of charity (Co2 9:1-5), and proceeds to give directions about the acceptable way and manner of performing it, namely, bountifully, deliberately, and freely; and gives good encouragement for so doing (Co2 9:6 to the end).
Open source ↗Cross-references
Other passages the community most often connects to this one. Tap to read.
And this is my opinion about what is helpful for you in this matter: Last year you were the first not only to give, but even to have such a desire.
I am not making a demand, but I am testing the sincerity of your love in comparison to the earnestness of others.
In full view of the churches, then, show these men the proof of your love and the reason for our boasting about you.
And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds.
You know that Stephanas and his household were the first converts in Achaia, and they have devoted themselves to the service of the saints. Now I urge you, brothers,
More than that, this brother was chosen by the churches to accompany us with the offering—the gracious gift we administer to honor the Lord Himself and to show our eagerness to help.
While Gallio was proconsul of Achaia, the Jews coordinated an attack on Paul and brought him before the judgment seat.
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, To the church of God in Corinth, together with all the saints throughout Achaia:
As a result, you have become an example to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia.
Great is my confidence in you; great is my pride in you; I am filled with encouragement; in all our troubles my joy overflows.