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 9 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 that giving has a spiritual source, the experience of the LORD’s mercy. 1
Prayer for the hope of eternal life in Christ: Almighty, everlasting God, Your Son has assured forgiveness of sins and deliverance from eternal death. Strengthen us by Your Holy Spirit that our faith in Christ may increase daily and that we may hold fast to the hope that on the Last Day we shall be raised in glory to eternal life; through Jesus Christ. 2
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