2 Corinthians 9:13

KJV

Whiles by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ, and for [your] liberal distribution unto them, and unto all [men];

KJV (with Strong's)

Whiles by {G1223} the experiment {G1382} of this {G5026} ministration {G1248} they glorify {G1392} God {G2316} for {G1909} your {G5216} professed {G3671} subjection {G5292} unto {G1519} the gospel {G2098} of Christ {G5547}, and {G2532} for your liberal {G572} distribution {G2842} unto {G1519} them {G846}, and {G2532} unto {G1519} all {G3956} men;

Complete Jewish Bible

In offering this service you prove to these people that you glorify God by actually doing what your acknowledgement of the Good News of the Messiah requires, namely, sharing generously with them and with everyone.

Berean Standard Bible

Because of the proof this ministry provides, the saints will glorify God for your obedient confession of the gospel of Christ, and for the generosity of your contribution to them and to all the others.

American Standard Version

seeing that through the proving of you by this ministration they glorify God for the obedience of your confession unto the gospel of Christ, and for the liberality of your contribution unto them and unto all;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Corinthians 9:13 encapsulates the profound spiritual impact of the Corinthian church's generous financial contribution to the impoverished saints in Jerusalem. Paul reveals that this act of giving serves as a tangible demonstration of their genuine faith and obedience to the gospel of Christ, prompting the recipients to offer fervent praise and glory to God for both the Corinthians' submission to Christ and their abundant, inclusive generosity. It highlights how practical acts of Christian charity are not merely humanitarian aid but powerful testimonies that validate faith and draw others to worship God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within Paul's extended exhortation to the Corinthian church regarding their participation in a collection for the needy believers in Jerusalem, an appeal that spans chapters 8 and 9. Chapter 8 sets the stage by presenting the exemplary generosity of the Macedonian churches, who gave beyond their means, demonstrating a profound spiritual commitment that flowed from their devotion to Christ ([2 Corinthians 8:1-5](/2_corinthians/8-1-5 "The Generosity of the Macedonian Churches")). Paul then transitions to the Corinthians, reminding them of their earlier commitment to this collection and urging them to complete it, emphasizing principles like cheerful giving ([2 Corinthians 9:7](/2_corinthians/9-7 "God Loves a Cheerful Giver")). Verse 13, therefore, serves as a climactic statement, revealing the glorious outcome and spiritual dividends of their completed act of generosity, connecting their material contribution directly to the glorification of God and the validation of their faith.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The collection for the saints in Jerusalem was a significant initiative for Paul, serving multiple purposes. Historically, the Jerusalem church, being the epicenter of early Christianity, often faced economic hardship, exacerbated by famine and persecution. Culturally, this collection fostered unity between Jewish and Gentile believers, demonstrating the practical outworking of the gospel's power to transcend ethnic and social divisions. It was a tangible expression of Christian solidarity, showing that Gentile converts recognized their spiritual debt to the Jewish believers from whom the gospel originated ([Romans 15:27](/romans/15-27 "Gentile Debt to Jewish Believers")). The act of giving was not merely a transfer of funds but a profound statement of theological conviction and inter-church fellowship, reflecting the early church's communal ethos and commitment to caring for its members.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully articulates several key themes pervasive in 2 Corinthians and Paul's broader theology. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Christian giving as a spiritual act**, not just a financial transaction. It demonstrates that generosity is an "experiment" or "proof" of genuine faith, directly leading to the glorification of God. Secondly, it highlights **the validation of faith through action**. The Corinthians' "professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ" is shown to be authentic through their "liberal distribution," emphasizing that true belief is evidenced by transformed behavior and obedience to Christ's commands, particularly in love and service ([James 2:17](/james/2-17 "Faith Without Works is Dead")). Finally, the verse speaks to the **expansive nature of Christian love and generosity**, extending "unto them, and unto all men," reflecting the universal scope of God's grace and the gospel's call to boundless compassion.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **experiment (Greek, _dokimḗ'_):** From G1382, this term signifies "test," "proof," or "trustiness." In this context, the Corinthians' "ministration" (their act of giving) is not merely a tentative attempt but a tangible, proven demonstration of their faith and obedience. It serves as concrete evidence, validating the sincerity of their commitment to Christ and His gospel.
* **ministration (Greek, _diakonía'_):** From G1248, this word denotes "attendance," "aid," or "service." Here, it specifically refers to the practical, tangible service of providing financial relief to the Jerusalem saints. It emphasizes that the collection is not just a passive transfer of funds but an active, compassionate act of service, embodying the spirit of Christ's own servanthood.
* **distribution (Greek, _koinōnía'_):** From G2842, this term carries the meaning of "partnership," "participation," or "benefaction." While often translated as "distribution" or "fellowship," in this context, it specifically highlights the shared giving or pecuniary benefaction. It underscores that the Corinthians' act is a communal sharing of resources, reflecting a deep spiritual bond and mutual participation in the body of Christ. The "liberal" aspect (from G572 _haplótēs_) further emphasizes the generosity and sincerity of this sharing.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Whiles by the experiment of this ministration":** This clause introduces the means by which God is glorified. The "experiment" (or proof/demonstration) refers to the tangible act of service—the collection and distribution of funds. It's the practical outworking of their faith that serves as undeniable evidence.
* **"they glorify God":** This is the direct result of the "ministration." The recipients of the aid, witnessing the Corinthians' generosity, are moved to praise and honor God. This emphasizes that Christian giving is ultimately God-centered, drawing attention and adoration to Him rather than to the givers.
* **"for your professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ":** One key reason for the recipients' glorification of God is the visible proof of the Corinthians' obedience. Their "professed subjection" (their declared allegiance and submission) to the gospel is validated and made evident through their sacrificial giving, demonstrating that their faith is not merely intellectual assent but a transformative power in their lives.
* **"and for [your] liberal distribution unto them, and unto all [men];":** The second reason for God's glorification is the nature of their giving itself. It is "liberal" (generous, sincere, bountiful) and extends not only to the immediate recipients ("unto them") but also implies a broader, inclusive spirit of generosity ("and unto all men"). This highlights the expansive, ungrudging nature of Christian charity, reflecting God's own boundless grace.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices to convey his message. The phrase "the **experiment** of this ministration" utilizes **Metonymy**, where "experiment" (proof/test) stands for the act of giving itself, emphasizing its demonstrative quality. This also functions as a **Cause and Effect** relationship, where the Corinthians' action (the "ministration" as a "proof") directly causes the recipients to " glorify God." There is an element of **Emphasis** through repetition of the idea of "proof" or "demonstration" of faith, underscoring that practical deeds are the visible fruit of genuine spiritual commitment. Furthermore, the phrase "unto them, and unto all men" employs **Hyperbole** or **Synecdoche** to convey the expansive and inclusive nature of Christian generosity, implying a broad, unreserved spirit of giving that transcends immediate beneficiaries to reflect a universal love.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse powerfully connects the practical act of giving with profound theological truths, demonstrating that financial contributions in the church are never merely transactional but deeply spiritual. It shows that generosity is a tangible expression of a transformed life, a visible fruit of genuine submission to Christ. When believers give liberally and sacrificially, it serves as a compelling testimony to the reality and power of the gospel, leading those who benefit to recognize God's provision and grace, thus bringing glory to His name. This act of giving establishes a spiritual bond between givers and receivers, fostering unity within the body of Christ and affirming the authenticity of faith through works.

* [Matthew 5:16](/matthew/5-16 "Let Your Light Shine")
* [Philippians 4:18](/philippians/4-18 "A Fragrant Offering")
* [Hebrews 13:16](/hebrews/13-16 "Do Not Neglect to Do Good")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Second Corinthians 9:13 offers a profound challenge and encouragement for believers today. It reminds us that our acts of generosity, whether financial, through our time, or by sharing our talents, are not merely charitable deeds but powerful spiritual statements. When we give sacrificially and cheerfully, we are not just meeting a need; we are participating in a divine demonstration that validates the authenticity of our faith and draws others to glorify God. Our giving becomes a tangible "proof" of our submission to the gospel of Christ, showing that our profession of faith is backed by a transformed life that actively loves and serves others. This verse calls us to consider how our practical acts of ministry can become compelling testimonies, reflecting God's boundless grace and inspiring praise to Him from those we serve. It compels us to give not out of obligation, but as an overflow of our genuine devotion to Christ, understanding that such generosity is a powerful witness to a watching world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does my giving (of time, talent, and treasure) serve as a "proof" or "experiment" of my professed subjection to the gospel of Christ?**
* **In what ways can my acts of generosity lead others to glorify God, rather than simply acknowledging my own effort?**
* **Am I giving with a "liberal distribution" that reflects God's own abundant and inclusive grace, or am I limiting my generosity?**
* **How can I be more intentional about seeing my acts of service and giving as opportunities for God to be glorified?**

### FAQ

**What does "experiment of this ministration" mean in this context?**

Answer: The phrase "experiment of this ministration" (Greek: `dokimē diakonías`) refers to the tangible proof or demonstration that the Corinthians' act of service (their financial collection for the Jerusalem saints) provides. It means that their generous giving is not just an attempt, but a visible, undeniable validation of their genuine faith and obedience to the gospel. It serves as concrete evidence, confirming the sincerity of their commitment to Christ and His teachings.

**How does Christian giving lead to the glorification of God?**

Answer: Christian giving leads to the glorification of God in several ways. Firstly, it demonstrates the transformative power of the gospel in the lives of believers, showing that faith is not merely intellectual but produces tangible fruit of love and generosity ([Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Fruit of the Spirit")). When recipients witness such selfless acts, they recognize God's provision and grace at work through His people, prompting them to praise and thank Him. Secondly, it validates the truth of the gospel itself, as it shows that believers are truly living out the principles of love, compassion, and unity taught by Christ. This practical outworking of faith serves as a powerful testimony, drawing attention and adoration to God rather than to the givers ([Matthew 5:16](/matthew/5-16 "Let Your Light Shine")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Second Corinthians 9:13, while addressing the practical act of giving, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Christ. The Corinthians' "professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ" is the foundation for their generosity, and this gospel is entirely centered on Jesus. Their liberal distribution is a reflection of the ultimate "liberal distribution" of God's grace through His Son, Jesus Christ, who, though rich, for our sakes became poor, so that we through His poverty might become rich ([2 Corinthians 8:9](/2_corinthians/8-9 "Christ's Example of Giving")). Jesus Himself is the supreme "experiment" or "proof" of God's love and faithfulness, demonstrating God's character through His sacrificial life, death, and resurrection. Our acts of giving, therefore, are not merely moral duties but participation in Christ's ongoing `diakonía` (ministry/service) to the world. When believers give, they are embodying the very heart of Christ, who gave Himself completely for humanity, ultimately leading to the glorification of God the Father, just as Jesus always glorified the Father through His perfect obedience and sacrifice ([John 17:4](/john/17-4 "Jesus Glorifies the Father")). Thus, every act of Christian generosity, rooted in the gospel, becomes a living testament to the self-giving nature of our Savior, drawing all praise and glory back to Him.

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

Matthew 5:16

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

Hebrews 13:16

But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

Galatians 1:24

And they glorified God in me.

2 Corinthians 2:12

¶ Furthermore, when I came to Troas to [preach] Christ's gospel, and a door was opened unto me of the Lord,

John 15:8

Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.

Acts 21:19

And when he had saluted them, he declared particularly what things God had wrought among the Gentiles by his ministry.

Acts 21:20

And when they heard [it], they glorified the Lord, and said unto him, Thou seest, brother, how many thousands of Jews there are which believe; and they are all zealous of the law: