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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 9:6–15. His four-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Here we have,
I.Proper directions to be observed about the right and acceptable manner of bestowing charity; and it is of great concernment that we not only do what is required, but do it as is commanded. Now, as to the manner in which the apostle would have the Corinthians give, observe,
1.It should be bountifully; this was intimated, Co2 9:5, that a liberal contribution was expected, a matter of bounty, not what savoured of covetousness; and he offers to their consideration that men who expect a good return at harvest are not wont to pinch and spare in sowing their seed, for the return is usually proportionable to what they sow, Co2 9:6.
2.It should be deliberately Every man, according as he purposes in his heart, Co2 9:7. Works of charity, like other good works, should be done with thought and design; whereas some do good only by accident. They comply, it may be hastily, with the importunity of others, without any good design, and give more than they intended, and then repent of it afterwards. Or possibly, had they duly considered all things, they would have given more. Due deliberation, as to this matter of our own circumstances, and those of the persons we are about to relieve, will be very helpful to direct us how liberal we should be in our contributions for charitable uses.
3.It should be freely, whatever we give, be it more or less: Not grudgingly, nor of necessity, but cheerfully, Co2 9:7. Persons sometimes will give merely to satisfy the importunity of those who ask their charity, and what they give is in a manner squeezed or forced from them, and this unwillingness spoils all they do. We ought to give more freely than the modesty of some necessitous persons will allow them to ask: we should not only deal out bread, but draw out our souls to the hungry, Isa 58:10. We should give liberally, with an open hand, and cheerfully, with an open countenance, being glad we have ability and an opportunity to be charitable.
II.Good encouragement to perform this work of charity in the manner directed. Here the apostle tells the Corinthians,
1.They themselves would be no losers by what they gave in charity. This may serve to obviate a secret objection in the minds of many against this good work who are ready to think they may want what they give away; but such should consider that what is given to the poor in a right manner is far from being lost; as the precious seed which is cast into the ground is not lost, though it is buried there for a time, for it will spring up, and bear fruit; the sower shall receive it again with increase, Co2 9:6. Such good returns may those expect who give freely and liberally in charity. For,
(1.)God loveth a cheerful giver (Co2 9:7), and what may not those hope to receive who are the objects of the divine love? Can a man be a loser by doing that with which God is pleased? May not such a one be sure that he shall some way or other be a gainer? Nay, are not the love and favour of God better than all other things, better than life itself?
(2.)God is able to make our charity redound to our advantage, Co2 9:8. We have no reason to distrust the goodness of God, and surely we have no reason to question his power; he is able to make all grace abound towards us, and abound in us; to give a large increase of spiritual and temporal good things. He can cause us to have a sufficiency in all things, to be content with what we have, to make up what we give, to be able to give yet more: as it is written (Psa 112:9) concerning the charitable man, He hath dispersed abroad. He hath given to the poor. His righteousness, that is, his almsgiving, endureth for ever. The honour of it is lasting, the reward of it eternal, and he is still able to live comfortably himself and to give liberally to others.
(3.)The apostle puts up a prayer to God in their behalf that they might be gainers, and not losers, Co2 9:10, Co2 9:11. Here observe,
[1.]To whom the prayer is made - to God, who ministereth seed to the sower, who by his providence giveth such an increase of the fruits of the earth that we have not only bread sufficient to eat for one year, but enough to sow again for a future supply: or thus, It is God who giveth us not only a competency for ourselves, but that also wherewith we may supply the wants of others, and so should be as seed to be sown.
[2.]For what he prayeth. There are several things which he desires for them, namely, that they may have bread for their food, always a competency for themselves, food convenient, - that God will multiply their seed sown, that they may still be able to do more good, - and that there may be an increase of the fruits of righteousness, that they may reap plentifully, and have the best and most ample returns of their charity, so as to be enriched in every thing to all bountifulness (Co2 9:11), - that upon the whole they may find it true that they shall be no losers, but great gainers. Note, Works of charity are so far from impoverishing us that they are the proper means truly to enrich us, or make us truly rich.
2.While they would be no losers, the poor distressed saints would be gainers; for this service would supply their wants, Co2 9:12. If we have reason to think them to be saints, whom we believe to be of the household of faith, whose wants are great, how ready should we be to do them good! Our goodness can not extend unto God, but we should freely extend it to these excellent ones of the earth, and thus show that we delight in them.
3.This would redound to the praise and glory of God. Many thanksgivings would be given to God on this account, by the apostle, and by those who were employed in this ministration, Co2 9:11. These would bless God, who had made them happy instruments in so good a work, and rendered them successful in it. Besides these, others also would be thankful; the poor, who were supplied in their wants, would not fail to be very thankful to God, and bless God for them; and all who wished well to the gospel would glorify God for this experiment, or proof of subjection to the gospel of Christ, and true love to all men, Co2 9:13. Note,
(1.)True Christianity is a subjection to the gospel, a yielding of ourselves to the commanding influence of its truths and laws.
(2.)We must evince the sincerity of our subjection to the gospel by works of charity.
(3.)This will be for the credit of our profession, and to the praise and glory of God.
4.Those whose wants were supplied would make the best return they were able, by sending up many prayers to God for those who had relieved them, Co2 9:14. And thus should we recompense the kindnesses we receive when we are not in a capacity of recompensing them in any other way; and, as this is the only recompence the poor can make, so it is often greatly for the advantage of the rich.
Lastly, The apostle concludes this whole matter with this doxology, Thanks be to God for his unspeakable gift, Co2 9:15. Some think that by this unspeakable gift he means the gift of grace bestowed on the churches, in making them able and willing to supply the necessities of the saints, which would be attended with unspeakable benefit both to the givers and receivers. It should seem rather that he means Jesus Christ, who is indeed the unspeakable gift of God unto this world, a gift we have all reason to be very thankful for.
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.
Moreover, the blessed Apostle Paul, full of the grace of the Lord's inspiration, says: "He that ministereth seed to the sower, shall both minister bread for your food, and shall multiply your seed sown, and shall increase the growth of the fruits of your righteousness, that in all things ye may be enriched.".
Likewise in the same place: "Now he who ministereth seed to the sower, shall both supply bread to be eaten, and shall multiply your seed, and shall increase the growth of the fruits of your righteousness: that in all things ye may be made rich."
Herein one may particularly admire the wisdom of Paul, that after having exhorted from spiritual considerations and from temporal, in respect of the recompense also he again does the very same, making the returns he mentions of either kind. This, (for instance,) "He hath scattered abroad, he hath given to the poor, his righteousness abideth for ever," belongs to a spiritual return; that again, "multiply your seed for sowing," to a temporal recompense. Still, however, he rests not here, but even again passes back to what is spiritual, placing the two continually side by side; for "increase the fruits of your righteousness," is spiritual. This he does, and gives variety by it to his discourse, tearing up by the roots those their unmanly and faint-hearted reasonings, and using many arguments to dissipate their fear of poverty, as also the example which he now brings. For if even to those that sow the earth God gives, if to those that feed the body He grants abundance; much more will He to those who till the soil of heaven, to those who take care for the soul; for these things He willeth should yet more enjoy His providing care. However, he does not state this in the way of inference nor in the manner I have done, but in the form of a prayer; thus at once making the reference plain, and the rather leading them on to hope, not only from what [commonly] takes place, but also from his own prayer: for, 'May He minister,' saith he, 'and multiply your seed for sowing, and increase the fruits of your righteousness.' Here also again he hints, in an unsuspicious way, at largeness [in giving], for the words, "multiply and increase," are by way of indicating this; and at the same time he allows them to seek for nothing more than necessaries, saying, "bread for food." For this also is particularly worthy of admiration in him, (and it is a point he successfully established even before,) namely, that in things which be necessary, he allows them to seek for nothing more than need requires; but in spiritual things counsels them to get for themselves a large superabundance. Wherefore he said above also, "that having a sufficiency ye may abound to every good work:" and here, "He that ministereth bread for food, multiply your seed for sowing;" that is to say, the spiritual [seed]. For he asks not almsgiving merely, but with largeness. Wherefore also he continually calls it "seed." For like as the corn cast into the ground showeth luxuriant crops, so also many are the handfuls almsgiving produceth of righteousness, and unspeakable the fruits it showeth.
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Summary
2 Corinthians 9:10 serves as a profound assurance within Paul's discourse on Christian giving, underscoring God's unfailing faithfulness as the ultimate provider. It promises that the same divine hand that supplies the sower with seed for planting and bread for sustenance will also multiply the resources generously sown by believers, thereby increasing the spiritual harvest of their righteousness. This verse encourages a mindset of trusting abundance, where generosity is not a depletion but an investment in God's economy, yielding both material provision and spiritual fruit.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is situated within a larger, two-chapter discussion (2 Corinthians 8-9) where Paul exhorts the Corinthian church to complete their promised contribution for the impoverished saints in Jerusalem. Paul uses the example of the Macedonian churches' sacrificial generosity (2 Corinthians 8:1-5) to inspire the Corinthians. He emphasizes that giving should be voluntary, cheerful, and proportional to one's means, not under compulsion (2 Corinthians 9:7). 2 Corinthians 9:10 directly follows the principle that "he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully" (2 Corinthians 9:6), providing the divine guarantee that God will enable and reward such bountiful sowing.
Historical & Cultural Context
The collection Paul was organizing was a significant act of solidarity between the Gentile churches and the Jewish Christian community in Jerusalem, demonstrating the unity of the body of Christ and offering practical relief to those suffering from famine and poverty. In the Greco-Roman world, patronage and reciprocal relationships were common, but Paul redefines generosity through a distinctly Christian lens, emphasizing God as the primary patron. The agricultural imagery of sowing and reaping was universally understood in an agrarian society, making the metaphor of giving as "sowing" highly relatable. This context also highlights the early church's commitment to caring for its members, particularly the vulnerable, reflecting a core aspect of their communal life and witness.
Key Themes
2 Corinthians 9:10 powerfully reinforces several key themes prevalent in 2 Corinthians and Paul's broader theology. Foremost is the theme of Divine Provision and Sufficiency, asserting God as the ultimate source of all resources, both for daily sustenance and for acts of generosity. This aligns with Paul's declaration that "God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work" (2 Corinthians 9:8). Another crucial theme is the Principle of Sowing and Reaping, an agricultural metaphor extended to spiritual and material giving, where generous contributions are seen not as losses but as investments that God will multiply, as also seen in Galatians 6:7-9. Finally, the verse emphasizes the Increase of Righteousness, indicating that God's multiplication extends beyond material wealth to the spiritual fruit of a righteous character, which glorifies God and benefits others, echoing the "fruit of righteousness" mentioned in Philippians 1:11.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This verb, derived from a root meaning "to be a dance-leader" or "to furnish," denotes a lavish and abundant supply, going beyond mere provision to signify a full and generous furnishing. In this context, it highlights God's overflowing generosity in supplying seed to the sower and bread for food. It suggests that God's provision is not minimal but ample and enabling.
Literally "something sown," this term refers to the grain or material that is planted with the expectation of a future harvest. Figuratively, in this verse, "seed" represents the resources—financial or otherwise—that believers "sow" through their acts of generous giving. The concept implies an investment that is expected to yield a return.
This word signifies equity of character or act, and in a Christian theological sense, refers to justification and a right standing with God, leading to right conduct. Here, "fruits of your righteousness" refers to the good deeds, moral excellence, and spiritual growth that result from a life lived in accordance with God's will, particularly as manifested through acts of generous and loving service.
Verse Breakdown
"Now he that ministereth seed to the sower"
This clause identifies God as the ultimate source of all provision. Just as a farmer relies on God for the seed to plant, so too does the believer rely on God for the resources that enable generosity. God is not merely a recipient of gifts, but the initial and ongoing supplier.
"both minister bread for [your] food"
This part assures believers that God also provides for their basic needs. The same God who gives resources for sowing (giving) also provides sustenance for daily living. This dispels any fear that generosity will lead to personal lack, reinforcing God's faithfulness to care for His children.
"and multiply your seed sown"
This is a direct promise of divine multiplication. God will not only replenish what has been given but will increase it, ensuring that the act of giving is not a depletion but an investment that yields a greater return, enabling further acts of generosity.
"and increase the fruits of your righteousness;"
This final clause points to a spiritual return that transcends material gain. God's multiplication extends to the spiritual realm, enhancing the believer's character, good works, and spiritual influence. Generosity cultivates a more righteous life, producing tangible expressions of faith that glorify God.
Literary Devices
Paul employs a powerful Metaphor throughout this passage, likening generous giving to the act of "sowing" and the resulting blessings to a "harvest." This agricultural imagery is deeply resonant, drawing on common experiences to illustrate profound spiritual truths. The verse also exhibits Parallelism in its structure, presenting a series of divine actions: God "ministereth seed," "ministereth bread," "multiply[ies] your seed sown," and "increase[s] the fruits of your righteousness." This rhythmic structure emphasizes the comprehensive nature of God's provision and blessing. Furthermore, there's an element of Personification in portraying God as the active "minister" and "multiplier," highlighting His personal involvement and faithfulness in the lives of those who give generously.
Theological and Thematic Connections
2 Corinthians 9:10 beautifully encapsulates the theological principle of divine reciprocity, where God responds to human generosity with His own superabundant provision. It dismantles the scarcity mindset, replacing it with a theology of abundance rooted in God's character. This verse teaches that true giving is not a deficit but a participation in God's ongoing work of provision and transformation, where material resources become channels for spiritual growth and the spread of righteousness. It affirms God's sovereignty over all resources and His delight in partnering with His people to meet needs and advance His kingdom.
Reflection and Application
2 Corinthians 9:10 invites believers to live with radical trust in God's provision, transforming their perspective on material possessions and generosity. It challenges us to view our resources not as solely our own, but as "seed" entrusted to us by God, to be sown for His purposes. This understanding liberates us from the fear of lack and empowers us to give cheerfully and bountifully, knowing that God is faithful to replenish and multiply. The promise extends beyond material return, assuring us that our generosity cultivates a deeper spiritual harvest—an increase in righteousness—which is ultimately more valuable and enduring. This verse calls us to be active participants in God's economy, becoming channels of His blessing to a needy world, confident that our needs will be met and our spiritual lives enriched.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Does this verse promise financial prosperity to all who give generously?
While 2 Corinthians 9:10 certainly speaks to material provision ("bread for your food" and "multiply your seed sown"), it's crucial to interpret it within its broader context and the whole counsel of Scripture. The primary focus of Paul's argument in 2 Corinthians 8-9 is on enabling further generosity and increasing righteousness, not necessarily guaranteeing personal wealth accumulation. God promises to supply what is needed for both personal sustenance and continued giving, and to grow the spiritual fruit of the giver. While financial blessing can be part of God's provision, the ultimate "increase" is often spiritual, leading to greater capacity for good works and a deeper relationship with God, as seen in the phrase "increase the fruits of your righteousness."
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
2 Corinthians 9:10, with its focus on divine provision and the multiplication of "seed sown" and "fruits of righteousness," finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Jesus Christ. He is the preeminent "sower" of the kingdom of God, scattering the good news of salvation and laying down His life as the ultimate "seed" (John 12:24). Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Christ not only provided the "bread of life" for our spiritual sustenance (John 6:35) but also became the source of all true righteousness for believers (Romans 3:21-22). Our "righteousness" is not merely our own good deeds but a gift imputed to us through faith in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:21). Therefore, when God "increases the fruits of your righteousness," He is cultivating Christ-likeness within us, enabling us to bear fruit that glorifies Him, not by our own strength but by the power of the Spirit working through our union with the true vine (John 15:5). In Christ, God's promise to supply and multiply is fully realized, empowering His church to be generous stewards of His grace, reflecting His own boundless love to the world (Ephesians 2:7).