2 Corinthians 8-10

2 Corinthians 8

 Macedonian Churches

• Paul describes the generosity of believers in Macedonia
• Despite affliction and poverty they gave joyfully 
• “but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then by the will of God to us.”

Paul encourages the Corinthians to finish the offering for believers in Jerusalem

• Generosity should accompany their good:
  • faith
  • knowledge
  • love
• Christ is the ultimate example: “Though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor…” 
• God looks at our willingness, not what we have

 Integrity in Handling Money

• Paul sends Titus and another trusted brother to the Corinthians 
• He asks to receive them and trust them

2 Corinthians 9

 Be Ready to Give

• Paul reminds them of their earlier readiness
• He sends brothers ahead to prepare the gift
• Paul uses some sarcasm about their “confident boasting”

The Principle of Generous Giving

• “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly…”
• Each person should give:
  • willingly
  • cheerfully
  • Quotes Palm 112:9
• God provides resources so believers can continue being generous
• Generosity results in thanksgiving to God

 Results of Generosity

• The offering meets practical needs
• It also produces glorification of God

Paul ends praising God for His indescribable gift

2 Corinthians 10

Spiritual Warfare

• Paul responds to critics who viewed him as weak in person
• He says Christian warfare is not fought with worldly weapons
• God’s weapons destroy:
  • arguments
  • false ideas
  • pride against the knowledge of God
• Believers are to “take every thought captive to obey Christ”
  

 Defense of Paul’s Authority

• Some accused Paul of being bold in letters but weak face-to-face
• Paul insists his authority comes from the Lord
• His authority is intended to build up and not destroy

 Proper Boasting

• Paul criticizes those who compare themselves with others
  • He is against self-promoting
• His ministry area was assigned by God – why would he boast in himself?
• “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.” 

Application

Paul shows us that generosity comes from a willing heart, not from wealth. We don’t have to be rich to be generous. We should give willingly and trust God to provide what we need. Do not self-promote yourselves , but boast in God, who gives us all things.