Revelation Part 6: The Seals

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Bible Study 2 Corinthians 8: 1-24

 

A Commentary of the Book of 2 Corinthians

By Dr. Barry L. Jenkins

Text Used: King James Version

Bible Study 2 Corinthians 8: 1-24

Text:

8 Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; 2 how that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. 3 For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves; 4 praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. 5 And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God. 6 Insomuch that we desired Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace also. 7 Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also. 8 I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love. 9 For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.

10 And herein I give my advice: for this is expedient for you, who have begun before, not only to do, but also to be forward a year ago. 11 Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have. 12 For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not. 13 For I mean not that other men be eased, and ye burdened: 14 but by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there may be equality: 15 as it is written, He that had gathered much had nothing over; and he that had gathered little had no lack.

16 But thanks be to God, which put the same earnest care into the heart of Titus for you. 17 For indeed he accepted the exhortation; but being more forward, of his own accord he went unto you. 18 And we have sent with him the brother, whose praise is in the gospel throughout all the churches; 19 and not that only, but who was also chosen of the churches to travel with us with this grace, which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and declaration of your ready mind: 20 avoiding this, that no man should blame us in this abundance which is administered by us: 21 providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men. 22 And we have sent with them our brother, whom we have oftentimes proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, upon the great confidence which I have in you. 23 Whether any do enquire of Titus, he is my partner and fellowhelper concerning you: or our brethren be enquired of, they are the messengers of the churches, and the glory of Christ. 24 Wherefore shew ye to them, and before the churches, the proof of your love, and of our boasting on your behalf.

Verse by verse commentary:

Verse 1: “Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia;”

The term "grace" in this context signifies the act of providing financial assistance to fellow Christians in need. This generosity—both the necessary funds and the desire to give—is a gift from God. The Macedonian churches involved in this effort were located in Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea.

Verse 2: “how that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality.”

Despite their severe economic hardship (the kind of "poverty" that forces a person to become a beggar, or "extremely deep" poverty), the churches in Macedonia displayed an "abundance," or surplus, of joy. This joy transcended their difficult circumstances because of their profound dedication to the Lord and the advancement of His kingdom's causes.

Their selfless commitment was also evident in their "liberality," which means "generosity" or "sincerity." This single-minded focus—the opposite of being double-minded or duplicitous—made the Macedonian believers truly rich in their selfless generosity toward both God and others.

Verse 3: “For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves;”

Paul highlights the remarkable generosity of the poor Macedonian churches as an example for the comparatively wealthy Corinthian congregation, which is located further south.

Verse 4: “praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.”

The Macedonian Christians considered the act of giving a "grace" or "gift," not a duty. They eagerly asked Paul for the extraordinary privilege of participating as partners in supporting the needy believers in Jerusalem.

Verse 5: “And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God.”

The phrase "not as we hoped" signifies that the Corinthians' actions exceeded expectations. This was demonstrated by their initial act of giving their "own selves," which indicates a rededication of their lives to serving the Lord, followed by a commitment to Paul, as the Lord's servant.

Verse 6: “Insomuch that we desired Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace also.”

Paul encourages the Corinthians to let the same grace that motivated the Macedonians inspire their own giving. The willingness to give serves as a true measure of a person's character. It has been noted that three elements are vital for a complete worship service: the Bible, the hymn book, and the checkbook. Clearly, giving is an act of worship to God. If a person finds they lack a generous spirit, they should seek God in prayer for a heart that is willing to share.

Verse 7: “Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also.”

Paul praised the Corinthians for their abundance in faith, their ability to witness, and their possession of knowledge, diligence, and love for him and the other apostles. He now urges them to excel in yet another grace: the grace of giving.

Verse 8: “I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love.”

Paul's desire was for giving to be voluntary. Although he possessed significant authority, he generally chose to appeal to others rather than issuing commands, setting a strong example for all those in positions of leadership.

Verse 9: “For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.”

The ultimate standard for Christian giving is the Lord Jesus Christ. Though infinitely rich, He willingly became poor for our sake. Consider the profound journey: leaving the glory of heaven to be born in poverty in Bethlehem, to live humbly in Nazareth, to suffer and die on a cross outside Jerusalem's walls, and to be laid in a tomb's darkness. This self-impoverishment was His gift to us.

Verse 10: “And herein I give my advice: for this is expedient for you, who have begun before, not only to do, but also to be forward a year ago.”

Paul emphasized that there was no mandatory amount for the Corinthians' donations. Instead, he encouraged generous giving, believing it would result in a substantial return from God. This blessing could manifest as material wealth, spiritual growth, or eternal reward.

Verse 11: “Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have.”

Giving, like every other aspect of the Christian life, requires more than just good intentions. Good motives must be translated into appropriate actions that align with what we are capable of doing.

Verse 12: “For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.”

It is important to remember that giving should be done willingly and in accordance with what one possesses. No individual is expected to contribute beyond their means. Unlike the Old Testament requirement of the tithe, Christian giving is not based on a specific percentage. Instead, believers are encouraged to give cheerfully according to their means.

Verse 13: “For I mean not that other men be eased, and ye burdened:”

Paul's message is that no one should be unduly burdened.

Verse 14: “but by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there may be equality:”

Paul advocated for a fair distribution of burdens among believers rather than suggesting that all Christians must have identical income or possessions. His appeal focuses on achieving equity through mutual support rather than enforcing a strict, mathematical equality.

Verse 15: “as it is written, He that had gathered much had nothing over; and he that had gathered little had no lack. “

This principle finds its roots in the Old Testament account of the manna in the wilderness. Those who gathered an abundance shared with those who had little, ensuring no one lacked. In the same way, Paul teaches that believers who are rich should share their resources to provide for those in need, fostering a spirit of mutual support and equity.

Verse 16: “But thanks be to God, which put the same earnest care into the heart of Titus for you.”

In this verse, the Greek word charis is translated as "thanks," though it is frequently rendered as "grace" in other passages. Consequently, while "thanks" is suitable, the phrase could also be understood as "grace be to God".

Paul observes that although he was the one who sent Titus to oversee the collection, the motivation to perform this task was a "grace" already placed in Titus's heart by God. Titus possessed the same intense dedication as Paul to secure aid for the struggling believers living in Jerusalem.

Verse 17: “ For indeed he accepted the exhortation; but being more forward, of his own accord he went unto you.”

To prepare for his own arrival, Paul is dispatching Titus to Corinth in advance.

Verse 18: “And we have sent with him the brother, whose praise is in the gospel throughout all the churches; “

Because this "brother" was so renowned, respected, and beyond reproach, he remained unnamed. As an eminent preacher, his involvement lent further integrity to the mission of delivering the collection to Jerusalem.

Verse 19: “and not that only, but who was also chosen of the churches to travel with us with this grace, which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and declaration of your ready mind: “

The phrase "chosen of the churches" indicates that congregations played a role in appointing representatives to travel alongside Paul. Furthermore, the expression "to the glory of the same Lord" underscores the principle that both the act of giving and the responsible administration of funds are spiritual endeavors that bring honor to God.

Verse 20: “avoiding this, that no man should blame us in this abundance which is administered by us: “

To prevent any doubt regarding his integrity, Paul ensured that he would not handle the Jerusalem gift alone. He requested that reliable delegates from various congregations travel with him, thereby eliminating any possible grounds for suspicion or accusations of financial misconduct.

Verse 21: “providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men. “

By emphasizing the importance of "providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men," Paul demonstrates his commitment to transparency. This great apostle makes it clear that funds must be handled in a way that is beyond reproach, ensuring they are used exactly as intended.

Verse 22: “And we have sent with them our brother, whom we have oftentimes proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, upon the great confidence which I have in you. “

This unnamed "brother" served as the third person appointed to the delegation tasked with transporting the gift.

Verse 23: “Whether any do enquire of Titus, he is my partner and fellowhelper concerning you: or our brethren be enquired of, they are the messengers of the churches, and the glory of Christ.”

Paul ensures the integrity of the collection by not delivering the funds alone. Titus, Paul's trusted partner, is one of several reliable individuals tasked with providing a full report. By involving multiple people, they maintain transparency and reinforce the trust placed in them.

Verse 24: “Wherefore shew ye to them, and before the churches, the proof of your love, and of our boasting on your behalf. “

Paul challenges the believers to demonstrate the reality of their love. If your commitment is genuine, it must go beyond mere words; generosity serves as a concrete manifestation of your affection.

 

Christ Our Surety

Scripture:
"By so much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament." — Hebrews 7:22

Personal Reflection

The concept of Christ as our Surety is one of the most comforting truths in Scripture. A surety is one who guarantees another person's debt. Humanity owed a debt to God's justice that could never be repaid. Every sin increased that debt, and the penalty was eternal judgment.

Yet Christ stepped forward as our Surety. He took responsibility for the debt of His people and paid it in full through His death upon the cross. God's justice was completely satisfied. Nothing remains unpaid.

Living faith rests upon this finished work. The believer understands that his acceptance before God is not based on his performance but on Christ's perfection. When Satan accuses, we point to Christ our Surety. When conscience condemns, we point to Christ our Surety. When fears arise, we point again to Christ our Surety.

Because Christ guaranteed our salvation, we can rest securely in Him. Our standing before God is as secure as the righteousness of Christ Himself.

Contemplation

Do I truly believe that Christ has paid my debt in full?

Puritan Quote

"Christ paid what He never owed, that we might receive what we never earned." — John Flavel

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for standing in my place and satisfying divine justice on my behalf. Help me rest fully in Your finished work. Amen.

Application

Whenever guilt or fear arises today, remind yourself that Christ has paid your debt completely. 

 

When the Spirit Reveals Our Need

Scripture:
"And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment." — John 16:8

Personal Reflection

Every genuine conversion begins with the work of the Holy Spirit. Before anyone comes to Christ, the Spirit opens blind eyes and reveals the true condition of the human heart. Left to ourselves, we excuse our sins, defend our actions, and compare ourselves favorably with others. The Holy Spirit destroys these illusions.

Living faith begins when a sinner realizes he cannot save himself. The Spirit uses the Word of God like a mirror, showing us our guilt, our rebellion, and our helplessness before a holy God. This experience is often painful, but it is necessary. A person must know he is lost before he desires a Savior.

The Spirit also brings us to take responsibility for our sin. True repentance does not blame parents, circumstances, society, or other people. It acknowledges, "I have sinned against God." Only then does the sinner flee to Christ.

What mercy it is that the Spirit does not leave us in despair. Having shown us our sin, He reveals Christ as the all-sufficient Savior. The same Spirit who convicts also comforts, leading us to the cross where mercy triumphs over judgment.

Contemplation

Have I truly seen my need for Christ, or am I still trusting in my own goodness?

Puritan Quote

"Till sin be bitter, Christ will not be sweet." — Thomas Watson

Prayer

Holy Spirit, continue Your work in my heart. Reveal areas of pride and self-reliance. Lead me continually to Christ and keep me dependent upon His grace. Amen.

Application

Confess a specific sin to God today and thank Him for Christ's complete forgiveness.

 

The Faith of the Son of God

Scripture:
"The life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me." — Galatians 2:20

Personal Reflection

Paul's testimony is remarkable. He does not speak of faith as something he manufactured through effort or determination. Rather, he speaks of a faith that comes from Christ Himself. The believer's faith is not self-generated; it is a gift of God's grace.

This truth is comforting because our faith often feels weak. There are days when doubts arise, when trials overwhelm us, and when our spiritual strength seems exhausted. Yet the foundation of our salvation is not the strength of our faith but the strength of our Savior. Christ is both the Author and Finisher of our faith.

Living faith continually points away from itself and toward Christ. The mature believer spends less time admiring his faith and more time admiring his Savior. Faith is merely the hand that receives the gift. Christ is the treasure being received.

The believer grows when he understands that every spiritual blessing flows from union with Christ. Because Christ lives in him, he can persevere through hardship, resist temptation, and walk in obedience.

Contemplation

Am I trusting in the strength of my faith, or in the strength of Christ?

Puritan Quote

"Faith sees more in Christ than there is in all the world." — Richard Sibbes

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for being the Author and Sustainer of my faith. Keep my eyes fixed upon You and not upon myself. Help me rely upon Your strength when mine fails. Amen.

Application

Spend time today meditating on Christ's sufficiency rather than focusing on your weaknesses.

 

Living by Faith Every Day

Scripture:
"For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith." — Romans 1:17

Personal Reflection

Many people think of faith only as the doorway into salvation. They can point to a day when they trusted Christ, walked an aisle, or made a profession of faith. Yet Scripture teaches that faith is not merely how the Christian begins the race; it is how he runs it every day thereafter. The same faith that brought us to Christ must sustain us through every trial, temptation, and uncertainty.

Living faith is more than agreement with doctrine. It is a daily dependence upon the Lord Jesus Christ. When difficulties arise, living faith looks to Christ. When blessings come, living faith thanks Christ. When the future is uncertain, living faith rests in Christ. The believer learns that he is not merely saved by faith; he lives by faith.

The storms of life reveal whether our faith is genuine. A dead faith collapses when circumstances become difficult. A living faith clings to God's promises even when feelings fluctuate and answers are delayed. The believer may stumble, but he does not abandon Christ, because Christ will never abandon him.

Contemplation

Am I living today by faith in Christ, or am I relying upon my own wisdom, strength, and resources?

Puritan Quote

"Faith is the grace that brings Christ and the soul together." — Thomas Watson

Prayer

Father, teach me to live by faith and not by sight. Help me trust Your promises more than my fears and circumstances. Cause me to rest in Christ daily and walk in confidence that You are working all things for Your glory and my good. Amen.

Application

Identify one burden you are carrying today. Consciously place it into Christ's hands and trust Him with the outcome.

The Final Triumph

 

The Final Triumph

Scripture

“They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb.” — Revelation 12:11

Personal Reflection

The believer’s ultimate triumph rests entirely upon Christ. Satan accuses, tempts, and attacks, but the blood of Christ secures eternal victory for God’s people.

Every storm, every battle, and every hardship will one day end. Christ will return, Satan will be judged, and the people of God will dwell forever in perfect peace. This future certainty strengthens believers in present warfare.

Contemplation

Jonathan Edwards wrote, “The saints’ glory shall consist in seeing the glory of Christ.”
Are you living in light of Christ’s ultimate victory?

Prayer

Lord, help me persevere with my eyes fixed on the final triumph of Christ.

Application

Meditate today on the certainty of Christ’s return and eternal victory.