2 Corinthians 9:1

KJV

¶ For as touching the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you:

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} as {G3303} touching {G4012} the ministering {G1248} to {G1519} the saints {G40}, it is {G2076} superfluous {G4053} for me {G3427} to write {G1125} to you {G5213}:

Complete Jewish Bible

There is really no need for me to write you about this offering for God’s people —

Berean Standard Bible

Now about the service to the saints, there is no need for me to write to you.

American Standard Version

For as touching the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you:

Commentary

### 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](/2_corinthians/8 "2 Corinthians 8 - The Grace of Giving") to the practical instructions and theological foundations of giving in [2 Corinthians 9](/2_corinthians/9 "2 Corinthians 9 - Sowing Generously"). In [2 Corinthians 8](/2_corinthians/8 "2 Corinthians 8 - The Grace of Giving"), 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](/2_corinthians/8-5 "2 Corinthians 8:5 - Giving Themselves to the Lord")). He also reminded the Corinthians of their own initial eagerness and commitment to this collection a year prior ([2 Corinthians 8:10-11](/2_corinthians/8-10-11 "2 Corinthians 8:10-11 - Corinth's Initial Eagerness")). Therefore, [2 Corinthians 9:1](/2_corinthians/9-1 "2 Corinthians 9:1 - Paul's Confidence in Corinth's Readiness") 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](/romans/15-26-27 "Romans 15:26-27 - Gentiles Sharing with Jerusalem")). 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](/galatians/2-10 "Galatians 2:10 - Remembering the Poor")).
* **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](/2_corinthians/9 "2 Corinthians 9 - Principles of Generous Giving").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **ministering (Greek, _diakonía'_):** From G1248, 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.
* **saints (Greek, _hágios'_):** From G40, 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.
* **superfluous (Greek, _perissós'_):** From G4053, 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](/2_corinthians/9-1 "2 Corinthians 9:1 - Paul's Rhetorical Strategy"). 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](/2_corinthians/9-1 "2 Corinthians 9:1 - Service to Fellow Believers") 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.

* [Romans 15:26-27](/romans/15-26-27 "The Collection for Jerusalem")
* [Acts 11:29-30](/acts/11-29-30 "Relief for Judea")
* [Galatians 6:10](/galatians/6-10 "Doing Good to All")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's opening in [2 Corinthians 9:1](/2_corinthians/9-1 "2 Corinthians 9:1 - Readiness to Serve") 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
* **In what areas of your life or church community have you expressed good intentions but perhaps fallen short in follow-through?**
* **How can you cultivate a spirit of genuine readiness and eagerness to serve and give, rather than waiting to be prompted?**
* **How does Paul's pastoral approach in this verse challenge or affirm your own methods of encouraging others in ministry or generosity?**
* **What specific "ministering to the saints" (practical acts of service or giving) is God calling you or your church to engage in today?**

### FAQ

**Why does Paul say it's "superfluous" for him to write more about the collection?**

Answer: 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](/2_corinthians/8 "2 Corinthians 8 - The Grace of Giving"), reminding them of their initial eagerness to participate a year prior ([2 Corinthians 8:10-11](/2_corinthians/8-10-11 "2 Corinthians 8:10-11 - Corinth's Previous Commitment")). 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?**

Answer: In [2 Corinthians 9:1](/2_corinthians/9-1 "The Ministry to the Saints"), "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](/acts/11-27-30 "Famine Relief")). 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](/romans/15-26-27 "Reciprocal Blessing")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [2 Corinthians 9:1](/2_corinthians/9-1 "Readiness for Service") 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](/2_corinthians/8-9 "2 Corinthians 8:9 - Christ's Example of Giving")). 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](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Humility")). 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](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")). 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](/matthew/25-40 "Matthew 25:40 - Serving the Least of These")).

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

Galatians 6:10

As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all [men], especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

2 Corinthians 8:4

Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and [take upon us] the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.

2 Corinthians 8:15

As it is written, He that [had gathered] much had nothing over; and he that [had gathered] little had no lack.

1 Thessalonians 4:9

¶ But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another.

1 Thessalonians 4:10

And indeed ye do it toward all the brethren which are in all Macedonia: but we beseech you, brethren, that ye increase more and more;

Galatians 2:10

Only [they would] that we should remember the poor; the same which I also was forward to do.

1 Thessalonians 5:1

¶ But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you.