2 Corinthians 8:22

KJV

And we have sent with them our brother, whom we have oftentimes proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, upon the great confidence which [I have] in you.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} we have sent {G4842} with them {G846} our {G2257} brother {G80}, whom {G3739} we have {G1381} oftentimes {G4178} proved {G1381}{G5607} diligent {G4705} in {G1722} many things {G4183}, but {G1161} now {G3570} much {G4183} more diligent {G4707}, upon the great {G4183} confidence {G4006} which {G3588} I have in {G1519} you {G5209}.

Complete Jewish Bible

With these two we are sending another brother of ours, one whose diligence we have tested many times in many ways, but who is now all the more diligent because of his great confidence in you.

Berean Standard Bible

And we are sending along with them our brother whose earnestness has been proven many times and in many ways, and now even more so by his great confidence in you.

American Standard Version

And we have sent with them our brother, whom we have many times proved earnest in many things, but now much more earnest, by reason of the great confidence which he hath in you.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Corinthians 8:22 introduces a third individual, an unnamed "brother," whom Paul is sending alongside Titus and another associate to oversee the crucial collection for the impoverished saints in Jerusalem. This verse underscores Paul's meticulous attention to integrity and accountability in financial matters, highlighting the brother's established track record of diligence and an even greater zeal for this particular mission, all predicated on Paul's profound confidence in the Corinthian church's commitment to generosity.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a sustained appeal by Paul to the Corinthian church concerning their participation in a collection for the needy believers in Jerusalem, spanning [2 Corinthians chapters 8 and 9](/2_corinthians/8 "2 Corinthians 8 - The Grace of Giving"). Paul has already introduced Titus, who initiated the collection, and a second unnamed brother in [2 Corinthians 8:18-19](/2_corinthians/8-18-19 "2 Corinthians 8:18-19 - The Brother Sent with Titus"). The inclusion of this third "brother" in verse 22 further emphasizes Paul's commitment to transparency and the establishment of a robust team to handle the significant funds. The entire arrangement, as articulated in [2 Corinthians 8:21](/2_corinthians/8-21 "2 Corinthians 8:21 - Providing for What Is Honorable"), is designed to "provide for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men." This verse, therefore, serves to reinforce the credibility and trustworthiness of the entire delegation.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The collection for the Jerusalem saints was a significant undertaking, initiated by Paul and other apostles, to alleviate the severe poverty experienced by the Jewish Christian community in Jerusalem (cf. [Acts 11:27-30](/acts/11-27-30 "Acts 11:27-30 - Relief for Judea")). This act of financial support from Gentile churches to the mother church in Jerusalem carried profound theological and symbolic weight, fostering unity between Jewish and Gentile believers. In the Greco-Roman world, financial transactions, especially those involving public funds or charitable contributions, were often viewed with suspicion. Paul's emphasis on sending multiple, proven individuals reflects a keen awareness of the need for unimpeachable integrity to prevent accusations of fraud or mismanagement, which could severely undermine the gospel message. His actions set a high standard for financial accountability in early Christian ministry, a practice that was not always common in the broader societal context.

* **Key Themes:** A central theme in [2 Corinthians 8](/2_corinthians/8 "2 Corinthians 8 - The Grace of Giving") is the **grace of giving**, exemplified by the Macedonian churches and presented as a model for the Corinthians. Within this, [2 Corinthians 8:22](/2_corinthians/8-22 "2 Corinthians 8:22 - The Third Brother") highlights the theme of **proven character and integrity in ministry**. Paul's selection of individuals with a demonstrated history of faithfulness underscores the importance of **accountability and transparency** in handling sacred trusts, particularly financial ones. The verse also subtly touches upon the theme of **pastoral trust and confidence**, as Paul expresses his "great confidence" in the Corinthians, believing they will live up to their commitment. This confidence is not naive but rooted in his understanding of God's work in their lives, as seen in their abounding in various graces (cf. [2 Corinthians 8:7](/2_corinthians/8-7 "2 Corinthians 8:7 - Abounding in All Things")). Finally, the verse contributes to the broader theme of **unity and mutual support** within the body of Christ, as the collection itself was an expression of inter-church fellowship and care.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **proved (Greek, _dokimázō'_):** From G1381, meaning "to test (literally or figuratively); by implication, to approve." This word indicates that the brother's diligence was not merely assumed but had been subjected to a process of examination and scrutiny over time, resulting in a verified and affirmed character. It implies a history of reliable performance under various circumstances, leading to Paul's confidence in his trustworthiness.
* **diligent (Greek, _spoudaîos'_):** From G4705, meaning "prompt, energetic, earnest." This term describes the brother's active, zealous, and industrious nature. He is not merely competent but eager and committed to his tasks. The use of its comparative form, _spoudaióteros_ (G4707, "more diligent"), in the latter part of the verse, emphasizes an even greater intensity or heightened commitment for this specific, important mission.
* **confidence (Greek, _pepoíthēsis'_):** From G4006, meaning "reliance, trust." This word encapsulates Paul's deep conviction and assurance regarding the Corinthian believers. His decision to send such a highly vetted team is directly linked to the "great confidence" he places in the Corinthians to respond generously and fulfill their promise, thereby making the mission worthwhile and necessary.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And we have sent with them our brother":** Paul, as the apostolic leader, takes responsibility for assembling and dispatching this team. "Our brother" signifies a fellow Christian, a trusted member of their spiritual family, implying a close working relationship and shared commitment to the gospel. The plural "them" refers to Titus and the other unnamed brother mentioned earlier in the chapter, highlighting the formation of a multi-person delegation for the sake of transparency and mutual support.
* **"whom we have oftentimes proved diligent in many things":** This clause provides the crucial qualification of this third brother. His reliability is not new or untested; it has been established through repeated experiences ("oftentimes") across a variety of responsibilities ("in many things"). The verb "proved" (δοκιμάζω) indicates a process of testing and subsequent approval, affirming his consistent and earnest effort.
* **"but now much more diligent":** This phrase indicates a heightened state of diligence. The brother is not just consistently diligent, but for this particular mission, he is demonstrating an even greater zeal or intensity. This increased diligence could be attributed to the significance of the collection, the urgent needs of the Jerusalem saints, or perhaps a personal spiritual growth and deepened commitment to serving the Lord.
* **"upon the great confidence which [I have] in you":** This concluding phrase reveals the underlying motivation for sending such a highly qualified team. Paul's "great confidence" in the Corinthian church's willingness and ability to complete their promised contribution is the catalyst. He trusts that their response will be generous and faithful, which in turn justifies the deployment of his most trusted and diligent associates to facilitate the process with utmost integrity.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices to convey his message in [2 Corinthians 8:22](/2_corinthians/8-22 "2 Corinthians 8:22 - The Trustworthy Brother"). The most prominent is **Emphasis**, achieved through the repetition and intensification of the concept of diligence. The brother is not just "diligent" but has been "oftentimes proved diligent" and is "now much more diligent." This progression underscores the extraordinary quality of the individual being sent and the importance Paul places on this characteristic. Paul also utilizes **Ethos**, appealing to his own credibility and the proven character of his associates to build trust with the Corinthian church regarding the financial collection. By sending individuals with an unimpeachable reputation, Paul implicitly assures the Corinthians of the integrity of the process, thereby enhancing his own standing as a trustworthy leader. Furthermore, there is a subtle **Juxtaposition** between the brother's past diligence ("oftentimes proved diligent") and his present, elevated commitment ("now much more diligent"), highlighting a growth or intensified focus for the current, critical task.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The selection of this "brother" with a proven track record of diligence resonates deeply with biblical principles of stewardship, integrity, and the nature of Christian service. It underscores that God values not only the outcome of our actions but also the character and faithfulness with which we undertake them. Paul's meticulousness in ensuring transparency and accountability in financial matters sets a timeless standard for ministry, reflecting the divine expectation for honesty and blamelessness in handling sacred resources. This commitment to integrity safeguards the reputation of the gospel and strengthens the trust within the community of faith, demonstrating that Christian service is to be above reproach, both before God and before humanity.

* [1 Corinthians 4:2](/1_corinthians/4-2 "1 Corinthians 4:2 - Required of Stewards") - "Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful."
* [Luke 16:10](/luke/16-10 "Luke 16:10 - Faithful in Little, Faithful in Much") - "He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much."
* [Proverbs 22:1](/proverbs/22-1 "Proverbs 22:1 - A Good Name Is More Desirable") - "A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's careful selection of individuals for the collection in [2 Corinthians 8:22](/2_corinthians/8-22 "2 Corinthians 8:22 - The Diligent Brother") offers profound lessons for believers today. It reminds us that character, particularly diligence and trustworthiness, is paramount in any area of service, especially where stewardship of resources is involved. Our faithfulness in small tasks builds a foundation for greater responsibilities, and our commitment to integrity ensures that our actions honor God and build confidence within the community. This verse challenges us to continually grow in our zeal for the Lord's work, moving from being merely "diligent" to "much more diligent" as the significance of our calling becomes clearer. Furthermore, it encourages us to extend grace and confidence to fellow believers, fostering an environment where trust is reciprocal and mutual encouragement empowers everyone to fulfill their God-given potential.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life or ministry have you been "proven diligent," and how might God be calling you to be "much more diligent" now?**
* **How does Paul's emphasis on transparency and accountability in financial matters challenge or affirm the practices in your own church or organization?**
* **What does it mean to have "great confidence" in fellow believers, and how can you cultivate such trust in your relationships within the body of Christ?**
* **Reflect on a time when someone's proven character built your trust. How can you intentionally build a reputation of trustworthiness in your own life?**

### FAQ

**Who is the "brother" mentioned in 2 Corinthians 8:22, and why is his identity not explicitly stated?**

Answer: The identity of this "brother" is not explicitly stated in the text, nor is it definitively known from other biblical or historical sources. While some traditions suggest he might be Luke, Apollos, or another prominent figure, the Bible does not confirm this. Paul's decision not to name him aligns with his practice in [2 Corinthians 8:18](/2_corinthians/8-18 "2 Corinthians 8:18 - The Unnamed Brother") regarding the second delegate. The anonymity likely serves to emphasize his character and qualifications ("whom we have oftentimes proved diligent") rather than his personal fame. It shifts the focus from who he is to what he is—a highly trustworthy and proven servant, thereby reinforcing the integrity of the collection process without relying on a specific name's authority. This also prevents any potential accusations of favoritism or personal gain, ensuring that the focus remains on the mission itself.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [2 Corinthians 8:22](/2_corinthians/8-22 "2 Corinthians 8:22 - The Diligent Brother") primarily speaks to the character of human servants, it ultimately points to Christ as the supreme example of diligence, faithfulness, and the one in whom all confidence is rightly placed. Jesus Himself was "proved" diligent in all things, perfectly fulfilling the Father's will (cf. [John 4:34](/john/4-34 "John 4:34 - Jesus' Food Is to Do God's Will")). His life was marked by unwavering earnestness in His mission, culminating in the ultimate act of obedience on the cross (cf. [Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Obedient to Death")). The "great confidence" Paul had in the Corinthians, though significant, pales in comparison to the absolute and unshakeable confidence believers can have in Christ, who is "faithful in all his house" (cf. [Hebrews 3:1-6](/hebrews/3-1-6 "Hebrews 3:1-6 - Christ More Faithful Than Moses")). Our ability to serve with diligence and integrity, as Paul's brother did, is a reflection of the Holy Spirit's work within us, conforming us to the image of the perfectly diligent and trustworthy Son, Jesus Christ, through whom we have bold access and confidence (cf. [Ephesians 3:12](/ephesians/3-12 "Ephesians 3:12 - Access with Confidence Through Christ")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Philippians 2:20

For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state.

Philippians 2:22

But ye know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father, he hath served with me in the gospel.