2 Corinthians 8:9

For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.

For {G1063} ye know {G1097} the grace {G5485} of our {G2257} Lord {G2962} Jesus {G2424} Christ {G5547}, that {G3754}, though he was {G5607} rich {G4145}, yet for {G1223} your {G5209} sakes {G1223} he became poor {G4433}, that {G2443} ye {G5210} through his {G1565} poverty {G4432} might be rich {G4147}.

For you know how generous our Lord Yeshua the Messiah was — for your sakes he impoverished himself, even though he was rich, so that he might make you rich by means of his poverty.

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

For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might become rich.

Commentary

2 Corinthians 8:9 (KJV): For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.

This powerful verse from Paul's second letter to the Corinthians provides the profound theological foundation for the call to generous giving discussed in chapters 8 and 9.

Context

Paul is encouraging the Corinthian believers to follow through on their commitment to contribute to a collection for the poor saints in Jerusalem. He holds up the example of the churches in Macedonia, who gave generously despite their own poverty (2 Corinthians 8:1-5). Verse 9 serves as the ultimate motivation, grounding their human act of charity in the divine act of Christ's self-giving.

Key Themes

  • The Grace of Christ: The verse highlights the supreme act of divine grace - God's unmerited favor shown through Jesus Christ.
  • Christ's Humiliation: Jesus, who was inherently rich in divine glory and power, voluntarily emptied himself, becoming poor by taking on human form and enduring earthly limitations and suffering. This speaks to His incarnation and earthly life.
  • Divine Exchange: The core message is a spiritual transaction: Christ's voluntary poverty leads directly to the believer's spiritual wealth. His sacrifice enables us to receive heavenly riches.
  • Motivation for Giving: Christ's ultimate act of self-sacrifice serves as the supreme example and impetus for believers to give generously to others.

Linguistic Insights

The word "grace" here is the Greek word charis, which signifies favor, goodwill, and kindness, particularly as shown by a superior to an inferior. It encapsulates the benevolent act of Christ. The terms "rich" and "poor" are used in stark contrast, emphasizing the vast distance Christ descended. "Rich" refers to His pre-existent divine glory and status, while "poor" refers to His earthly state of humility, service, and lack of material possessions, ultimately culminating in His death.

Reflection

2 Corinthians 8:9 is a cornerstone verse for understanding the heart of the Gospel and the basis for Christian living. It reminds us that our spiritual riches – forgiveness, salvation, eternal life, relationship with God, and heavenly inheritance – were purchased at the infinite cost of Christ's self-impoverishment. Meditating on Christ's example of humility and sacrifice motivates not only financial generosity but a whole life of self-giving love, mirroring the one who gave His all for us.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Romans 8:32 (44 votes)

    He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?

  • Philippians 2:6 (36 votes)

    Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:

  • Philippians 2:8 (36 votes)

    And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

  • Matthew 20:28 (32 votes)

    Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.

  • Romans 5:8 (22 votes)

    But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

  • 2 Corinthians 6:10 (18 votes)

    As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and [yet] possessing all things.

  • Ephesians 2:7 (12 votes)

    That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in [his] kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.