9:13 9:13

2 Corinthians 9:14

9:15 9:15

Bible Versions

And by their prayer for you, which long after you for the exceeding grace of God in you.
And {G2532} by their {G846} prayer {G1162} for {G5228} you {G5216}, which long after {G1971} you {G5209} for {G1223} the exceeding {G5235} grace {G5485} of God {G2316} in {G1909} you {G5213}.
And in their prayers for you they will feel a strong affection for you because of how gracious God has been to you.
And their prayers for you will express their affection for you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you.
while they themselves also, with supplication on your behalf, long after you by reason of the exceeding grace of God in you.

This verse concludes a section in 2 Corinthians where the Apostle Paul is discussing the collection being gathered from the Gentile churches for the impoverished believers in Jerusalem. It highlights the beautiful mutual benefit and spiritual connection fostered through generous giving.

Context

Chapters 8 and 9 of 2 Corinthians focus on the collection for the saints in Jerusalem. Paul encourages the Corinthian church to complete the gift they had pledged, emphasizing principles of willing, cheerful, and proportionate giving. This verse describes the anticipated response of the recipients (the Jerusalem believers) upon receiving the aid. It shows that the impact of their generosity extends beyond material relief, fostering deep spiritual bonds and mutual prayer.

Key Themes

  • Mutual Prayer and Fellowship: The verse emphasizes that the recipients will respond with prayer for the givers, creating a spiritual link between geographically separated believers.
  • Christian Affection: The phrase "long after you" indicates a deep affection and yearning the recipients will feel for the Corinthians, born out of gratitude and recognition of God's work in them.
  • The Exceeding Grace of God: The generosity of the Corinthians is attributed to the "exceeding grace of God" working within them. This highlights that true Christian giving is a result of God's divine influence and favor in the believer's life.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "long after you" comes from the Greek word epipotheō (ἐπιποθοῦντες), which means to yearn for, long for, or have strong affection. It's a powerful word describing deep desire and attachment. The term "exceeding grace" translates hyperballousan charin (ὑπερβάλλουσαν χάριν), combining hyperballō (to exceed, surpass) and charis (grace). This emphasizes the extraordinary, overflowing nature of God's grace manifested in the Corinthians' willingness and ability to give generously.

Reflection

This verse beautifully illustrates the interconnectedness of the body of Christ. An act of material generosity from one group of believers, empowered by the exceeding grace of God, evokes not just gratitude but also deep affection and fervent prayer for the givers from the recipients. It shows that Christian charity is a two-way street of blessing – material aid flows one way, while spiritual blessings like prayer and love flow back, all stemming from the grace of God at work in His people. This fosters unity and strengthens the bonds of Christian fellowship across different communities.

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.

  • 2 Corinthians 8:6

    Insomuch that we desired Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace also.

  • 2 Corinthians 8:7

    ¶ Therefore, as ye abound in every [thing, in] faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and [in] all diligence, and [in] your love to us, [see] that ye abound in this grace also.

  • Philippians 4:1

    ¶ Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, [my] dearly beloved.

  • 1 Timothy 1:14

    And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.

  • 2 Timothy 1:16

    The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for he oft refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain:

  • 2 Timothy 1:18

    The Lord grant unto him that he may find mercy of the Lord in that day: and in how many things he ministered unto me at Ephesus, thou knowest very well.

  • Philippians 4:18

    But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things [which were sent] from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God.
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