2 Corinthians 8:3-5
New International Version
3 For I testify that they gave as much as they were able,(A) and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, 4 they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing(B) in this service(C) to the Lord’s people.(D) 5 And they exceeded our expectations: They gave themselves first of all to the Lord, and then by the will of God also to us.
2 Corinthians 8:3-5
English Standard Version
3 For they gave (A)according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord, 4 begging us earnestly (B)for the favor[a] of taking part in (C)the relief of the saints— 5 and this, not as we expected, but they (D)gave themselves first to the Lord and then by the will of God to us.
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- 2 Corinthians 8:4 The Greek word charis can mean favor or grace or thanks, depending on the context
2 Corinthians 8:3-5
King James Version
3 For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves;
4 Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.
5 And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God.
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2 Corinthians 8:3-5
New King James Version
3 For I bear witness that according to their ability, yes, and beyond their ability, they were freely willing, 4 imploring us with much urgency [a]that we would receive the gift and (A)the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. 5 And not only as we had hoped, but they first (B)gave themselves to the Lord, and then to us by the (C)will of God.
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- 2 Corinthians 8:4 NU, M omit that we would receive, thus changing text to urgency for the favor and fellowship
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