Add parallel Print Page Options

12 [a]For if the eagerness is there, it is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have; 13 not that others should have relief while you are burdened, but that as a matter of equality

Read full chapter

Footnotes

  1. 8:12–15 Paul introduces the principle of equality into the discussion. The goal is not impoverishment but sharing of resources; balance is achieved at least over the course of time. In 2 Cor 8:15 Paul grounds his argument unexpectedly in the experience of Israel gathering manna in the desert: equality was achieved, independently of personal exertion, by God, who gave with an even hand according to need. Paul touches briefly here on the theme of “living from God.”

12 For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has,(A) not according to what one does not have.

13 Our desire is not that others might be relieved while you are hard pressed, but that there might be equality.

Read full chapter