¹⁷ “Now after many years ^(A)I came to bring alms and offerings to my nation,

¹⁰ They desired only that we should remember the poor, ^(A)the very thing which I also was eager to do.

²⁵ But now ^(A)I am going to Jerusalem to ^[a]minister to the saints. ²⁶ For ^(B)it pleased those from Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor among the saints who are in Jerusalem. ²⁷ It pleased them indeed, and they are their debtors. For ^(C)if the Gentiles have been partakers of their spiritual things, ^(D)their duty is also to minister to them in material things. ²⁸ Therefore, when I have performed this and have sealed to them ^(E)this fruit, I shall go by way of you to Spain.

Excel in Giving

8 Moreover, brethren, we make known to you the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia: ² that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and ^(A)their deep poverty abounded in the riches of their liberality. 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 ^(B)the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.

²⁹ Then the disciples, each according to his ability, determined to send ^(A)relief to the brethren dwelling in Judea. ^30 (B)This they also did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.

¹² For the administration of this service not only ^(A)supplies the needs of the saints, but also is abounding through many thanksgivings to God,

Administering the Gift

9 Now concerning ^(A)the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you; ² for I know your willingness, about which I boast of you to the Macedonians, that Achaia was ready a ^(B)year ago; and your zeal has stirred up the majority.

⁹ For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, ^(A)that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become ^(B)rich.

Collection for the Saints

16 Now concerning ^(A)the collection for the saints, as I have given orders to the churches of Galatia, so you must do also: ^2 (B)On the first day of the week let each one of you lay something aside, storing up as he may prosper, that there be no collections when I come. ³ And when I come, ^(C)whomever you approve by your letters I will send to bear your gift to Jerusalem. ^4 (D)But if it is fitting that I go also, they will go with me.