²⁹ So the disciples determined, every one according to his ability, ^(A)to send relief to ^(B)the brothers^[a] living in Judea.

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.

^8 (A)I say this not as a command, but to prove by the earnestness of others that your love also is genuine. ⁹ For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ^(B)though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.

¹⁷ As for the rich in ^(A)this present age, charge them ^(B)not to be haughty, nor ^(C)to set their hopes on ^(D)the uncertainty of riches, but on God, ^(E)who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. ¹⁸ They are to do good, ^(F)to be rich in good works, to be generous and ^(G)ready to share,

⁵ Keep your life ^(A)free from love of money, and ^(B)be content with what you have, for he has said, ^(C)“I will never leave you nor forsake you.” ⁶ So we can confidently say,

⁷ Remember ^(F)your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and ^(G)imitate their faith. ⁸ Jesus Christ is ^(H)the same yesterday and today and forever.