⁵ So I thought it necessary to urge the brothers^(A) to visit you in advance and finish the arrangements for the generous gift you had promised. Then it will be ready as a generous gift,^(B) not as one grudgingly given.^(C)

¹⁷ For Titus not only welcomed our appeal, but he is coming to you with much enthusiasm and on his own initiative.^(A)

¹² For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has,^(A) not according to what one does not have.

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)

⁹ The people rejoiced at the willing response of their leaders, for they had given freely and wholeheartedly^(A) to the Lord. David the king also rejoiced greatly.