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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 2 Corinthians 9:1–5. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
In these verses the apostle speaks very respectfully to the Corinthians, and with great skill; and, while he seems to excuse his urging them so earnestly to charity, still presses them thereto, and shows how much his heart was set upon this matter.
I.He tells them it was needless to press them with further arguments to afford relief to their poor brethren (Co2 9:1), being satisfied he had said enough already to prevail with those of whom he had so good an opinion. For,
1.He knew their forwardness to every good work, and how they had begun this good work a year ago, insomuch that,
2.He had boasted of their zeal to the Macedonians, and this had provoked many of them to do as they had done. Wherefore he was persuaded, that, as they had begun well, they would go on well; and so, commending them for what they had done, he lays an obligation on them to proceed and persevere.
II.He seems to apologize for sending Titus and the other brethren to them.
He is unwilling they should be offended at him for this, as if he were too earnest, and pressed too hard upon them; and tells the true reasons why he sent them, namely,
1.That, having this timely notice, they might be fully ready (Co2 9:3), and not surprised with hasty demands, when he should come to them. When we would have others to do that which is good we must act towards them prudently and tenderly, and give them time.
2.That he might not be ashamed of his boasting concerning them, if they should be found unready, Co2 9:3, Co2 9:4. He intimates that some from Macedonia might haply come with him: and, if the collection should not then be made, this would make him, not to say them, ashamed, considering the boasting of the apostle concerning them. Thus careful was he to preserve their reputation and his own. Note, Christians should consult the reputation of their profession, and endeavour to adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
2 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
Select a marker to jump to its quote. Markers stagger vertically where authors wrote within a few decades of each other.
It is superfluous, but in order to demonstrate his diligence, it was necessary for Paul to write like this, so that they would be all the more willing to do what they were asked and to embody the truth they were being taught. For superfluities tend to show greater concern. Our Lord did not doubt Peter’s love for him, but even so he asked the apostle three times: “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” This repetition may seem to be superfluous, but it contributed to the perfecting of the admonition. At length Peter would learn from it that he must act with great diligence.
Though he had said so much about it, he says here, "It is superfluous for me to write to you." And his wisdom is shown not only in this, that though he had said so much about it, he saith, "it is superfluous for me to write to you," but in that be yet again speaketh of it. For what he said indeed a little above, he said concerning those who received the money, to ensure them the enjoyment of great honor: but what he said before that, (his account of the Macedonians, that "their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality," and all the rest,) was concerning loving-kindness and alms-giving. But nevertheless even though he had said so much before and was going to speak again, he says, "it is superfluous for me to write to you." And this he does the rather to win them to himself. For a man who has so high a reputation as not to stand in need even of advice, is ashamed to appear inferior to, and come short of, that opinion of him.
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Summary
Paul transitions from his fervent appeal for the collection for the Jerusalem saints in the previous chapter, expressing a pastoral confidence in the Corinthian believers. He asserts that further detailed instruction on this particular act of "ministering to the saints" is unnecessary, not because the task is unimportant, but because he trusts in their established readiness and eagerness to participate in this generous work. This verse serves as a gentle affirmation of their commitment, preparing the way for practical exhortations regarding the manner of their giving.
Context
Literary Context
This verse acts as a bridge from the passionate appeals of 2 Corinthians 8 to the practical instructions and theological foundations of giving in 2 Corinthians 9. In 2 Corinthians 8, Paul presented the Macedonian churches as an exemplary model of generous giving, even out of extreme poverty, highlighting that their giving flowed from a prior commitment to the Lord (2 Corinthians 8:5). He also reminded the Corinthians of their own initial eagerness and commitment to this collection a year prior (2 Corinthians 8:10-11). Therefore, 2 Corinthians 9:1 signals that Paul is not introducing a new concept but rather building on a foundation already laid and accepted by the Corinthian church. His statement that it is "superfluous" to write more is a rhetorical device, affirming their known willingness rather than dismissing the importance of the collection itself.
Historical & Cultural Context
The "ministering to the saints" refers specifically to the collection being gathered for the impoverished Jewish Christians in Jerusalem. This initiative was a significant undertaking for Paul, symbolizing the unity between the predominantly Gentile churches he founded and the original Jewish Christian community in Jerusalem. Famine and economic hardship were common in Judea during this period, making such aid crucial. This collection was not merely charity but an expression of reciprocal spiritual blessing, as the Gentiles, having received spiritual blessings from Jerusalem, were now sharing their material blessings (Romans 15:26-27). It was a practical demonstration of the "fellowship" (κοινωνία) of the Spirit and a powerful testimony to the breaking down of ethnic barriers within the nascent Christian community (Galatians 2:10).
Key Themes
This verse underscores several key themes central to Paul's teaching on Christian living and community. First, it highlights the theme of Christian generosity and mutual support, emphasizing the responsibility of believers to care for one another, especially those in need, transcending geographical and cultural divides. Second, it speaks to Paul's pastoral wisdom and rhetorical skill. By stating that further writing is "superfluous," Paul employs a gentle, affirming approach, appealing to the Corinthians' integrity and prior commitment rather than resorting to forceful demands. This strategy encourages willing participation and reinforces their sense of ownership in the ministry. Third, it implicitly touches on the theme of readiness and follow-through in Christian service. Paul's confidence implies an expectation that the Corinthians will not only have good intentions but will also bring their plans to fruition, a concept he elaborates on in the subsequent verses of 2 Corinthians 9.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This word signifies "attendance (as a servant, etc.); figuratively (eleemosynary) aid, (official) service (especially of the Christian teacher, or technically of the diaconate)." In this context, diakonía specifically denotes the practical, financial aid being collected for the impoverished believers in Jerusalem. It underscores that this act of giving is not merely a transaction but a profound act of service and ministry, reflecting the very nature of Christ's servanthood.
Meaning "sacred (physically, pure, morally blameless or religious, ceremonially, consecrated)." In the New Testament, hágios is a common designation for believers, emphasizing their set-apart status and consecration to God through Christ. Here, "the saints" refers to the fellow Christians in Jerusalem, highlighting the familial bond and shared identity within the universal body of Christ, making their needs a concern for all believers.
Meaning "superabundant (in quantity) or superior (in quality); by implication, excessive; adverbially (with ἐκ) violently; neuter (as noun) preeminence." In this verse, perissós conveys the idea of something being "more than enough," "unnecessary," or "redundant." Paul uses it to communicate that he does not need to write extensively or argue further about the collection, as the Corinthians' readiness and commitment are already well-established. It's a commendation rather than a dismissal.
Verse Breakdown
"For as touching the ministering to the saints,"
Paul explicitly states the subject of his discourse: the collection of financial aid for the needy believers in Jerusalem. The phrase "ministering to the saints" elevates this act of material support to a spiritual service, emphasizing its sacred nature as an expression of Christian love and solidarity within the body of Christ.
"it is superfluous for me to write to you:"
This clause reveals Paul's pastoral strategy and his confidence in the Corinthian church. He is not saying that the collection itself is unimportant or that the Corinthians are unwilling. Rather, he implies that their previous commitment and known readiness make any further lengthy exhortation or persuasion unnecessary. This statement serves as a gentle affirmation of their good intentions and a subtle encouragement to follow through on their established resolve, setting a tone of trust and shared purpose rather than one of demand or suspicion.
Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices in 2 Corinthians 9:1. The primary device is Apostolic Affirmation, where Paul expresses confidence in the Corinthians' readiness, thereby encouraging them to live up to that expectation. This is a subtle form of Rhetorical Persuasion, where instead of directly commanding, Paul appeals to their known character and prior commitment. By stating that it is "superfluous" (περισσός, perissos) to write, he uses a form of Understatement or Litotes, implying that their eagerness is so evident that extensive writing would be redundant. This also functions as a form of Tactful Encouragement, as it avoids any appearance of nagging or distrust, instead fostering a sense of partnership and shared purpose in the ministry of giving.
Theological and Thematic Connections
The "ministering to the saints" in 2 Corinthians 9:1 is a profound theological act, embodying the practical outworking of Christian love and the unity of the body of Christ. It demonstrates that genuine faith is not merely intellectual assent but finds expression in tangible acts of compassion and support for fellow believers, especially those in need. This collection transcended geographical and ethnic divides, illustrating the early church's understanding of itself as one family, where the suffering of one part affects the whole. Paul's approach here, affirming their readiness, also highlights the theological principle of willing and cheerful giving, rooted in a heart transformed by grace, rather than giving under compulsion or legalistic obligation.
Reflection and Application
Paul's opening in 2 Corinthians 9:1 offers a powerful lesson for contemporary believers and churches. It challenges us to move beyond mere good intentions and to follow through on our commitments, particularly in areas of service, generosity, and support for those in need. Are we known for our readiness and eagerness to contribute to the work of God and the welfare of His people? This verse also teaches us about effective leadership and encouragement: sometimes, the most impactful way to motivate others is to affirm their existing commitment and trust in their integrity, rather than to constantly prod or pressure. It fosters an environment of mutual respect and shared responsibility, where giving is a joyful response to grace, not a burdensome duty. We are called to be a community where members are not only willing but eager to extend practical love and support to one another, reflecting the unity and compassion of Christ.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why does Paul say it's "superfluous" for him to write more about the collection?
Paul's statement that it is "superfluous" (unnecessary or redundant) to write more about the collection is a rhetorical device indicating his confidence and trust in the Corinthian church. He had already written extensively on the subject in 2 Corinthians 8, reminding them of their initial eagerness to participate a year prior (2 Corinthians 8:10-11). By saying it's superfluous, Paul is not dismissing the importance of the collection but rather affirming their known readiness and commitment. It's a pastoral tact, gently encouraging them to fulfill their promises by appealing to their integrity and avoiding any tone of nagging or doubt. He trusts that their hearts are already aligned with this important work, making further detailed persuasion unnecessary.
What does "the ministering to the saints" specifically refer to in this context?
In 2 Corinthians 9:1, "the ministering to the saints" (Greek: diakonía eis tous hagious) specifically refers to the financial collection Paul was organizing among the Gentile churches for the impoverished Jewish Christians in Jerusalem. This was a significant act of practical aid and solidarity, aimed at alleviating the suffering of believers in Judea who were experiencing severe economic hardship, possibly due to famine (Acts 11:27-30). It was more than just charity; it was a tangible expression of Christian fellowship and unity, demonstrating the mutual care and interdependence within the nascent global church, where Gentile believers shared their material blessings with those from whom they had received spiritual blessings (Romans 15:26-27).
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
While 2 Corinthians 9:1 directly addresses the Corinthians' readiness for a specific act of generosity, its deeper Christ-centered fulfillment lies in the very nature of giving and service exemplified by Jesus Christ Himself. Our readiness to minister to others, especially those in need, flows from the ultimate act of "ministering" that Christ performed on our behalf. He, "though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich" (2 Corinthians 8:9). This profound act of self-emptying (κένωσις) is the foundation for all Christian generosity. Our "superfluous" readiness to give is a reflection of the overflowing grace we have received in Christ. We are called to embody the same mind of Christ, who "made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant" (Philippians 2:7). Therefore, every act of "ministering to the saints" becomes an act of worship, a tangible expression of our gratitude for the boundless love and sacrifice of the Lamb of God, who gave His life for the world (John 1:29). Our service is not merely for the benefit of others, but ultimately for the glory of God, manifesting the very character of Christ in the world (Matthew 25:40).