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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.
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What he says is this; 'in the first place ye not only supply the wants of the saints, but ye are abundant even;' that is, 'ye furnish them with even more than they need: next, through them ye send up thanksgiving to God, for they glorify Him for the obedience of your confession.' For that he may not represent them as giving thanks on this account solely, (I mean, because they received somewhat,) see how high-minded he makes them, exactly as he himself says to the Philippians, "Not that I desire a gift." (Philippians chapter 4, verse 17) 'To them too I bear record of the same thing. For they rejoice indeed that ye supply their wants and alleviate their poverty; but far more, in that ye are so subjected to the Gospel; whereof this is an evidence, your contributing so largely.' For this the Gospel enjoins.
"And for the liberality of your contribution unto them and unto all." 'And on this account,' he says, 'they glorify God that ye are so liberal, not unto them only, but also unto all.' And this again is made a praise unto them that they gave thanks even for that which is bestowed upon others. 'For,' saith he, 'they do honor, not to their own concerns only, but also to those of others, and this although they are in the extremest poverty; which is an evidence of their great virtue. For nothing is so full of envy as the whole race of such as are in poverty. But they are pure from this passion; being so far from feeling pained because of the things ye impart to others, that they even rejoice over it no less than over the things themselves receive.'
"While they themselves also with supplication." 'For in respect of these things,' saith he, 'they give thanks to God, but in respect of your love and your coming together, they beseech Him that they may be counted worthy to see you. For they long after this, not for the money's sake, but that they may be witnesses of the grace that hath been bestowed upon you.' Seest thou Paul's wisdom, how after having exalted them, he ascribed the whole to God by calling the thing "grace?" For seeing he had spoken great things of them, in that he called them ministers and exalted them unto a great height, (since they offered service whilst he himself did but administer,) and termed them 'proved,' he shows that God was the Author of all these things.
The Corinthians will reap the benefit of the prayers of the poor. Those prayers come out of great love.
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Summary
This verse beautifully encapsulates the spiritual reciprocity inherent in Christian generosity, revealing that the material aid provided by the Corinthian believers to the impoverished saints in Jerusalem would evoke not only profound gratitude but also fervent prayers and deep affection from the recipients. It highlights how acts of giving, empowered by the "exceeding grace of God," transcend mere material transactions, fostering genuine spiritual bonds and mutual intercession within the global body of Christ, ultimately redounding to God's glory.
Context
Literary Context
2 Corinthians 9:14 serves as a powerful concluding statement in Paul's extensive appeal for the collection for the saints in Jerusalem, which spans chapters 8 and 9. Following detailed exhortations on the principles of generous, cheerful, and proportionate giving (e.g., 2 Corinthians 9:6-7), Paul describes the abundant blessings that flow from such liberality. He assures the Corinthians that God will provide for their needs so they can continue to be generous (2 Corinthians 9:8-10), and that their giving will result in "thanksgiving to God" (2 Corinthians 9:11). Verse 14 specifies how this thanksgiving manifests: through the prayers and profound affection of the recipients, who recognize the divine source of the Corinthians' generosity. This verse thus completes the theological argument, demonstrating that Christian giving is not just about meeting material needs but about glorifying God and forging deep spiritual unity.
Historical & Cultural Context
The collection for the Jerusalem saints was a significant undertaking for Paul, mentioned in several of his letters (e.g., Romans 15:25-27). Jerusalem and Judea had experienced periods of severe famine (as recorded in Acts 11:27-30), leaving many believers in dire poverty. The early church, though geographically dispersed, understood itself as one body. For Gentile churches like Corinth to contribute financially to the Jewish believers in Jerusalem was a profound act of unity and reconciliation, bridging deep-seated ethnic and religious divides. It symbolized the spiritual debt Gentile believers owed to Jewish believers, from whom the gospel had come (Romans 15:27). This act of charity was therefore far more than mere philanthropy; it was a tangible expression of gospel-driven solidarity and a powerful testimony to the unifying power of Christ.
Key Themes
This verse contributes significantly to several major themes in 2 Corinthians and Paul's broader theology. It underscores the theme of Divine Grace as the Source of Generosity, emphasizing that the Corinthians' ability and willingness to give stems from God's "exceeding grace" working within them. This highlights that true Christian giving is not a human effort but a divine enablement. Furthermore, it powerfully illustrates the theme of Mutual Blessing and Reciprocity in the body of Christ; material aid from one group elicits spiritual blessings (prayer, affection) from another, demonstrating that Christian charity is a two-way street of divine blessing. Finally, it reinforces the theme of Unity and Fellowship in the Body of Christ, showing how practical acts of love can transcend geographical and cultural barriers, fostering deep spiritual bonds and intercession among believers, thereby glorifying God.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
From the verb meaning "to beg" or "to implore," this word signifies a petition or supplication, often implying earnestness and a sense of need. In this context, it describes the heartfelt, earnest requests made by the Jerusalem believers on behalf of the Corinthians, born out of gratitude and spiritual connection.
This strong verb conveys an intense craving, a deep desire, or a yearning. It goes beyond mere affection to describe a profound emotional attachment and longing for the presence or fellowship of another. Here, it indicates the deep spiritual affection and yearning the Jerusalem saints would feel for the Corinthians, a bond forged through the tangible expression of God's grace.
This phrase combines hyperbállō, meaning "to throw beyond the usual mark," "to surpass," or "to excel," with cháris, which means "graciousness," "favor," or "divine influence." Together, they describe an extraordinary, superabundant, or surpassing grace of God. It highlights that the Corinthians' generosity was not ordinary human kindness but an exceptional manifestation of God's divine favor and enabling power at work within them, making their giving truly remarkable.
Verse Breakdown
"And by their prayer for you,"
This clause indicates the primary response of the recipients (the Jerusalem saints) to the Corinthians' generous gift. Their gratitude would manifest in fervent prayer directed toward the Corinthians. This underscores the spiritual nature of the transaction, where material aid generates spiritual intercession.
"which long after you"
This phrase further describes the nature of the recipients' response, adding a layer of deep affection and yearning. Their prayers are not perfunctory but are accompanied by a profound emotional and spiritual bond, indicating a genuine desire for fellowship and connection with the givers. This "longing" is a direct result of witnessing the tangible expression of God's love through the Corinthians.
"for the exceeding grace of God in you."
This final clause reveals the ultimate reason for the Jerusalem saints' prayers and longing: their recognition of God's extraordinary, overflowing grace at work in the Corinthian believers. They perceive that the Corinthians' generosity is not merely human effort but a divine enablement, a powerful demonstration of God's transforming power within their lives. This recognition leads them to praise God and intercede for those through whom such grace is manifested.
Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. Cause and Effect is prominent, where the Corinthians' generosity (the cause) directly leads to the Jerusalem saints' prayer and longing (the effect). This highlights the reciprocal nature of Christian giving. The phrase "exceeding grace" utilizes Emphasis or even Hyperbole, as the Greek word hyperbállō suggests a grace that surpasses all expectation or norm, underscoring the extraordinary nature of God's work in the Corinthians. Furthermore, the verse demonstrates Reciprocity or Mutualism, illustrating a beautiful exchange: material blessing from the givers evokes spiritual blessing (prayer and affection) from the receivers, creating a unified and interdependent body of believers.
Theological and Thematic Connections
2 Corinthians 9:14 profoundly illustrates the theological truth that Christian giving is far more than a financial transaction; it is a spiritual act that glorifies God and builds up His church. The "exceeding grace of God" is presented as the wellspring of all true generosity, reminding us that our ability to give comes from Him, and our willingness to do so is a manifestation of His work within us. This divine enablement transforms acts of charity into powerful testimonies of God's active presence among His people, fostering deep spiritual bonds and mutual intercession across geographical and cultural divides. It reinforces the idea that the body of Christ is interconnected, where the material provision of some elicits spiritual blessings from others, creating a cycle of grace, gratitude, and glory to God.
Reflection and Application
This verse offers a profound perspective on generosity, elevating it from a mere philanthropic act to a deeply spiritual endeavor that fosters profound relationships and glorifies God. It challenges us to view our resources not as our own, but as channels through which God's "exceeding grace" can flow, transforming lives and building His kingdom. When we give, empowered by this divine grace, we become instruments through whom others not only receive material aid but also witness the tangible reality of God's love. This witnessing then inspires them to pray for us and to feel a deep, genuine affection, creating a beautiful cycle of spiritual blessing and unity within the body of Christ. It reminds us that our giving has far-reaching spiritual consequences, extending beyond the immediate recipients to impact the spiritual landscape of the church and bring glory to God.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What is the significance of the Jerusalem believers "longing after" the Corinthians?
The phrase "long after you" (Greek: epipothéō) signifies a deep, heartfelt affection and spiritual bond, far beyond mere polite gratitude. It indicates a genuine yearning for fellowship and connection with the Corinthians, born out of witnessing God's "exceeding grace" in action through their generosity. This longing underscores the relational aspect of Christian giving, demonstrating that it transcends a transactional exchange of goods for thanks. Instead, it builds profound spiritual unity and mutual affection within the body of Christ, showing that acts of love can forge deep, lasting bonds between believers, even across great distances.
How does this verse relate to the broader theme of thanksgiving in 2 Corinthians 9?
This verse is a direct consequence and a powerful example of the thanksgiving Paul describes throughout 2 Corinthians 9. Paul states in 2 Corinthians 9:11 that generosity leads to "thanksgiving to God." Verse 14 specifies how this thanksgiving manifests: it is through the prayers and deep affection of the recipients, who recognize the "exceeding grace of God" in the givers. Thus, the Corinthians' generosity not only meets physical needs but also generates spiritual praise and unity, culminating in glory to God. It completes the cycle of grace: God's grace enables giving, giving meets needs, meeting needs elicits thanksgiving and prayer, and all of this brings glory back to God.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
The "exceeding grace of God" highlighted in 2 Corinthians 9:14 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He is the very embodiment of God's surpassing grace, as declared in John 1:14, "And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth." Christ's life, death, and resurrection are the supreme demonstration of divine generosity, for "though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich" (2 Corinthians 8:9). Our capacity to give, to long for others, and to pray for them, is not an inherent human virtue but a direct outflow of the grace we have received through Him. When believers, empowered by the Holy Spirit, act in generosity, they are reflecting the very character of Christ, who freely gave Himself for us. The mutual prayer and affection described in this verse are a foretaste of the perfect communion and unity that believers share in Christ, where all barriers are broken down (Ephesians 2:14) and all are united as one body, bringing glory to God the Father through Him (Ephesians 4:1-3). Thus, every act of Christian generosity, rooted in God's exceeding grace, ultimately points back to the unparalleled grace of Christ and His redemptive work.