Paul concluded his defense against false teachers in Corinth and now moves on to a more pressing matter, money.
It’s no secret Paul’s ministry was supported by contributions from church members, what is surprising is how open and matter of fact he is about tithing in this section of his letter to the Corinthians.
“13 Therefore we have been comforted in your comfort. And we rejoiced exceedingly more for the joy of Titus, because his spirit has been refreshed by you all.” (2 Corinthians 7:13)
Titus had returned with news of repentance from Corinth which brought much comfort to Paul. The apostle mentions the believers in Corinth left a great impact on Titus which obviously meant a lot to Paul.
“14 For if in anything I have boasted to him about you, I am not ashamed. But as we spoke all things to you in truth, even so our boasting to Titus was found true. 15 And his affections are greater for you as he remembers the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling you received him. 16 Therefore I rejoice that I have confidence in you in everything.” (2 Corinthians 7:14-16)
Paul’s testimony typically led to the Corinthians church, for the simple reason it was there he first planted a church in Galatia in the name of Jesus Christ around AD 50-52. The apostle had shared his passion for the believers in Corinth with Titus who confirmed Paul’s discernment and confidence toward the church and its leadership.
“1 Moreover, brethren, we make known to you the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia: 2 that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded in the riches of their liberality.” (2 Corinthians 8:1-2)
Paul gives praise to God for the Macedonian church and their generous giving, far beyond their means or obligation as followers of Jesus Christ and members of His body.
“3 For I bear witness that according to their ability, yes, and beyond their ability, they were freely willing, 4 imploring us with much urgency that we would receive the gift and the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.” (2 Corinthians 8:3-4)
Paul shares with the Corinthians the abundance showed by the churches in Macedonia, the be lifted high as a glorifying offering to God and His children throughout the land.
“5 And not only as we had hoped, but they first gave themselves to the Lord, and then to us by the will of God.” (2 Corinthians 8:5)
Paul mentions the fact believers in Macedonia gave beyond their ability, freely, willingly, urgently and with joy, in spite of great trials and deep poverty, through God’s grace. But first, they gave themselves to God as servants, then gave to Paul’s ministry as fellow laborers in the faith in Jesus Christ, Lord of all.
“6 So we urged Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also complete this grace in you as well. 7 But as you abound in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all diligence, and in your love for us—see that you abound in this grace also.” (2 Corinthians 8:6-7)
Titus had already started collecting tithe from the Corinthians, he would soon return to Corinth to complete this task. Paul’s hope was that it would be Corinth rather than Macedonia which would be used as a model for giving, after all the Corinthian church was gifted in so many other areas.
This section of Paul’s letter is undoubtedly about giving and tithing. The fact of the matter is, tithing is not only biblical, it’s ethical. The only way believers should look at tithing ten percent of all revenue is not for you to take your hands off what’s already His.
Believers today should give in spite of circumstances just like the Macedonians who gave beyond their ability, freely, willingly, urgently and with joy, in spite of great trials and deep poverty, through God’s grace. Let us pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant Paul,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.
Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.
We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com
