2
Corinthians 8:1–9, 13–15—When
the Christians in Jerusalem were in distress, the churches in Macedonia, though
they were also beset by poverty and affliction, gave beyond their means to
support their suffering brethren.
The LORD’s grace is shown
in the poor’s liberality. In chapters 8 and 0 Paul discusses stewardship of
money. The immediate need was an appeal for the poor and hungry in Jerusalem.
Paul and Barnabas were going to take the funds to Jerusalem. Paul tells the Corinthians
about the sacrificial giving the Macedonian Christians and urges them to match
their giving. This practical matter has theological implications. Liberal
giving, he writes, is evidence of the grace of God (v.1). The king of giving
results from consecration, for the Macedonians first gave themselves to Christ
(v. 5). He calls attention to the example of Jesus who, being rich became poor
for our sakes.
Can you believe it?
Christians beg for the favor of giving to the poor! Usually we must beg people
to help the needy. Consider the annual United Fund appeal. The Macedonian
Christians were so full of the grace of God and thereby so thankful that they
insisted upon helping the poor in Jerusalem even when they themselves were in a
famine. It is amazing grace that would motivate poor people to want to share
with other poor people. It indicates tht giving has a spiritual source, the
experience of the LORD’s mercy.[2]
[1] Luther’s Seal copyright © Ed Riojas, Higher Things
[2] Lectionary Preaching Workbook Series B, John Brokhoff, © 1981 CSS Publishing, Lima, OH
[3] A Collect for the hop of eternal life in Christ, Lutheran Service Book © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis
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