In chapters 79 of 2 Corinthians the Apostle Paul first tells the Corinthians of the comfort which he had received by the coming of Titus to him. And he had even more comfort in that which Titus reported, that the Corinthians had been deeply affected by Paul’s first letter to them. His letter had caused them godly sorrow to repentance.
Paul testifies to the wealthy Corinthian believers of the liberality of the poor believers in Macedonia. Though in a great trial of affliction, their joy and poverty abounded in giving even beyond their ability to give. It was Paul’s desire, now that he was confident of the repentance of the Corinthian assembly, that they too might share in the joy of giving. The Lord Jesus is the standard by which all is measured in giving, for He gave up more than any other and became poorer than any other in order that we might enjoy infinite riches in Him.
Paul encourages the Corinthians to give of their substance, not as something required but cheerfully, for such God loves. Someone giving in this way sows bountifully and will reap in that same measure. The Corinthians would have the exceeding joy of knowing that their bounty was being used to supply the want of other saints, who in turn would thank and glorify God for the grace of God which caused them to give thus.
1. Paul considered that the tribulation through which he passed was worth the suffering, since it had resulted in the repentance of the Corinthian assembly, which was so dearly beloved to him. What passage in Isaiah suggests how the Lord Jesus will feel concerning His suffering, when He views His bride in glory with Himself? Isaiah 53:___
2. Paul was not sorry to have caused grief to the Corinthians, for it worked great blessing for them through the exercises of soul that it caused. What is the result to those who are exercised by the chastening hand of God in their lives?
Hebrews 12:___
3. Why did the psalmist say that it was “good for me that I have been afflicted”? (Hint: Begin your search of Psalm 119 between verses 50 and 80.)
Psalm 119:___
4. Paul teaches us that the “spirit” in which we give is more important than the amount given. What spirit was required in the hearts of those who desired to give to Jehovah for the work of building the tabernacle in the wilderness?
Exodus 35:___
5. What value did the Lord place on the “two mites” which the faithful widow put into the collection at the temple in Jerusalem? (Use two verses for the answer.) Luke 21:___