Paul had been under attack lead by false teachers in Corinth who debated the apostle’s plan for the church’s giving. In this section of his letter to the believers in Corinth, Paul reminds them giving is a blessing, which shows faith and obedience in giving back to God what is His to begin with.
Now the apostle addresses the manner by which the Corinthians’ offering should be handled and taken to its destined purpose, to the impoverished and famished believers in Jerusalem.
“16 But thanks be to God who puts the same earnest care for you into the heart of Titus. 17 For he not only accepted the exhortation, but being more diligent, he went to you of his own accord.” (2 Corinthians 8:16-17)
Paul gives praise to God for Titus, a fellow laborer in Christ, who elected of his own accord and at his own expense to travel to Corinth where he would be entrusted with the church’s offering.
“18 And we have sent with him the brother whose praise is in the gospel throughout all the churches, 19 and not only that, but who was also chosen by the churches to travel with us with this gift, which is administered by us to the glory of the Lord Himself and to show your ready mind, 20 avoiding this: that anyone should blame us in this lavish gift which is administered by us— 21 providing honorable things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.” (2 Corinthians 8:18-21)
Along with Titus was another laborer in Christ, appointed to perform such duties as travel with offerings and see the church’s blessings be poured out upon reaching its destination.
Paul wanted to share the tremendous joy felt upon sharing the church’s collection entrusted to appointed individuals within the body of Christ.
“22 And we have sent with them our brother whom we have often proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, because of the great confidence which we have in you.” (2 Corinthians 8:22)
Who is the brother? Paul does not mention his name in this letter but it safe to assume the fellow laborer was well known to the Corinthians and other churches.
“23 If anyone inquires about Titus, he is my partner and fellow worker concerning you. Or if our brethren are inquired about, they are messengers of the churches, the glory of Christ. 24 Therefore show to them, and before the churches, the proof of your love and of our boasting on your behalf.” (2 Corinthians 8:23-24)
The apostle clearly lays out the plan for the gathering of the Corinthians’ offering, to be handled with utmost care by appointed, trusted individuals within the church. Anyone curious as to the individuals involved in or the purpose of the offering should be told the truth, that each brother is laboring to advance the gospel of Jesus Christ fulfilling God’s perfect plan for their lives.
Such is the model we follow to this day, though not always motivated by God’s glory. Believers then, just as today should be well informed as to the way their offerings are managed. 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
