SECOND
CORINTHIANS
Second Corinthians
8
1
¶ Moreover, brethren, we want you to know of the grace of God bestowed on the
churches of
2
How that in a great trial of affliction their abundant joy even with
deep poverty overflowed in rich generosity.
3
For I testify that they gave according to their ability, yea, and
beyond their ability they gave of their own accord;
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Pleading with much entreaty that we would accept their gift, and let them share
in this service to the saints.
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And this they did, not as we expected, but gave themselves first to the
Lord, and then to us by the will of God.
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So much so that we urged Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also complete
this gracious contribution among you also.
7
¶ Therefore, as you abound in every thing, in
faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in
your love to us, see that you abound in this gracious giving
also.
8
I am not commanding you, but by pointing out the zealous example of
others, would prove the sincerity of your love.
9
For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet
for your sakes he became poor, that you through his poverty might be rich.
10
And herein I give my advice: for this is to your advantage, you
who a year ago were the first to begin not only to do,
but also to desire it.
11
Now therefore perform the doing of it; that just as there was a
readiness to desire it, so it may be carried out as you are able.
12
For if there is first a willing mind, the gift is acceptable according
to what a person has, and not according to what he
does not have.
13
For my intention is not that other men be
eased, and you burdened:
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But that there be equality, so the abundance you have now might
supply their need, that in turn their abundance may be a supply
for your need: that it may equal out:
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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.
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For indeed he not only accepted our appeal; but being enthusiastic, has gone
unto you of his own accord.
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And we have sent with him the brother, whose praise in regard to the
gospel has spread throughout all the churches;
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And not only this, but he was also chosen by the churches to travel with
us in this gracious work, which is administered by us to the glory of the Lord
himself, and to show your willingness to help:
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Taking precaution, that no man should find fault with
us in the way we administer this generous offering:
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Being careful to be honest, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the
sight of men.
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And we have sent with them our brother, who has often demonstrated his
diligence to us in many things, but now much more so, because of the great
confidence I have in you.
23
As for Titus, he is my partner and fellow-worker concerning you: and our
brethren are the messengers of the churches, and a glory to
Christ.
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Therefore let both they and the churches see, the proof of your love,
and the reason for our boasting on your behalf.