² for during an ordeal of severe distress, their abundant joy and their deep poverty [together] overflowed in the wealth of their lavish generosity. ³ For I testify that according to their ability, and beyond their ability, they gave voluntarily, ⁴ begging us insistently for the privilege of participating in the service for [the support of] the saints [in Jerusalem]. ⁵ Not only [did they give materially] as we had hoped, but first they gave themselves to the Lord and to us [as His representatives] by the will of God [disregarding their personal interests and giving as much as they possibly could].

² for during an ordeal of severe distress, their abundant joy and their deep poverty [together] overflowed in the wealth of their lavish generosity. ³ For I testify that according to their ability, and beyond their ability, they gave voluntarily, ⁴ begging us insistently for the privilege of participating in the service for [the support of] the saints [in Jerusalem]. ⁵ Not only [did they give materially] as we had hoped, but first they gave themselves to the Lord and to us [as His representatives] by the will of God [disregarding their personal interests and giving as much as they possibly could]. ⁶ So we urged Titus that, as he began it, he should also complete this gracious work among you as well.

⁷ But just as you excel in everything, [and lead the way] in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in genuine concern, and in your love for us, see that you excel in this gracious work [of giving] also.