A Study in II Corinthians Week 10

II Corinthians 9:1-15

Paul was not above a little sarcasm. The church at Corinth had written him with questions about their troubles. In his effort to impress upon them the need for unity and for reconciliation, Paul recalls their initial enthusiasm and how it had stirred the Macedonian churches to action (9:1-2). He refers to the Corinthians' loss of face should any Macedonian delegates come and find them unprepared (9:4). He announces the upcoming visit of the brothers to make sure this does not happen (9:3, 5). And finally he reminds them of the blessings that come from generous giving (9:6-15).

The Verses

1-2 Paul had used the Macedonian church’s response to the Jerusalem church’s need to try to spur the Corinthians to give generously to the cause. He “brags” on Corinth’s desire to give to the Macedonians’ actual giving. There may be a little reverse psychology at work here.

3-5 Paul states that he is “sending the brothers” to help ensure that Corinth not just have a strong desire to be involved, but that they follow through with their enthusiastic intent.

Paul expresses concern that if Corinth did not follow through, he, his fellow ministers and the Macedonian church would be embarassed. So he sent the brothers to make certain that the offering is given.

6- 9 Is reaping related to sowing? _____Yes; _____No

(Yes)

How should we give? a) according to Biblical rules; b) because of compulsion by others; c) according to what he decides in his heart; d) reluctantly.

(c)

According to verse 7, God looks favorably on a) someone who gives with enthusiasm from the heart; b) someone who gives more than the average church member; c) someone who gives according to the rules of giving; d) someone who gives in order to be appreciated.

(a)

What “grace” is God going to “abound to you?” a) the grace of love and mercy; b) the grace of hospitality; c) the grace of salvation; d) the grace of giving.

(d)

10-11 What harvest does God promise to increase in you when you give? a) monitary wealth; b) plenty of food to eat; c) your righteousness; d) a great fruit orchard.

(c)

For what purpose does God prosper you when you give generously? a) so you can brag on Him; b) so you can brag on your goodness; c) so you can have many treasures; d) so you can express your thanks to Him.

(d)

12-15 Here Paul equates giving to the service of supplying the needs of others.

The results of your giving is thanksgiving to God.

The result of your obedience to confessing the gospel is praise to God.

Paul thanks God for the “indescribable” gift of giving. He reminds us that giving is a grace given to you by God.