2 Corinthians 8:1-9

Modern English Version

Liberal Giving

8 Moreover, brothers, we want you to experience the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia, ² how in a great trial of affliction, the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty overflowed toward the riches of their generous giving. ³ For I bear record that according to their means, and beyond their means, they freely gave, ⁴ begging us with much urgency that we would receive the gift and the fellowship of ministering to the saints. ⁵ This they did, not as we expected. First, they gave themselves to the Lord, and then to us by the will of God. ⁶ So we urged Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also complete this gracious deed for you. ⁷ But as you abound in everything—in faith, in utterance, in knowledge, in all diligence, and in your love to us—see that you abound in this grace also.

⁸ I say this not as a command, but to prove through the authenticity of others, the sincerity also 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 through His poverty you might be rich.