Revised Common Lectionary (Complementary)

He reminds them to help the poor saints in Jerusalem, as the Macedonians did. He sends Titus ahead.

8 I want you to understand, brethren, of the grace of God that is given in the congregations of Macedonia, ² how the greatness of their joy is in that they are tried with much tribulation. And moreover, though they were very poor, yet they have given very liberally, and that in sincerity. ³ For as they were able (I am witness), yea and beyond their ability, they were willing of their own accord, ⁴ and insisted that we take their gift and let them be partakers with others in ministering to the saints. ⁵ And this they did not as we looked for, but gave their own selves first to the Lord, and after to us by the will of God. ⁶ So we could not but desire Titus to accomplish the same work of grace among you too, even as he had begun.

⁷ Now therefore, as you are rich in all respects – in faith, in word, in knowledge, in all ferventness, and in love, which you have to us – so also see to it that you contribute generously to this gift.