2 Corinthians 9:7

Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, [so let him give]; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.

Every man {G1538} according as {G2531} he purposeth {G4255} in his heart {G2588}, so let him give; not {G3361} grudgingly {G1537}{G3077}, or {G2228} of {G1537} necessity {G318}: for {G1063} God {G2316} loveth {G25} a cheerful {G2431} giver {G1395}.

Each should give according to what he has decided in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.

Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver.

Let each man do according as he hath purposed in his heart: not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.

Context of 2 Corinthians 9:7

This verse is part of Paul's extended instruction to the Corinthian church regarding their contribution to the collection for the impoverished saints in Jerusalem. Chapters 8 and 9 of 2 Corinthians serve as a theological treatise on Christian giving, emphasizing principles over mere obligation. Paul uses the example of the generous Macedonian churches (2 Cor 8:1-5) to encourage the Corinthians, not by command, but by appealing to their love and willingness. Verse 7 encapsulates the core attitude God desires in all forms of generosity.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Intentional Giving: The phrase "Every man according as he purposeth in his heart" highlights that Christian giving should not be spontaneous or accidental, but a thoughtful, deliberate decision made after personal reflection and prayer. It's an act of the will, rooted in one's inner convictions.
  • Voluntary Giving: Paul explicitly states, "not grudgingly, or of necessity." This underscores the principle that giving should be free from compulsion, reluctance, or a sense of legalistic obligation. It is a willing sacrifice, not a forced payment.
  • Joyful Giving: The powerful concluding phrase, "for God loveth a cheerful giver," reveals God's preference for the attitude of the giver over the size of the gift. The emphasis is on joy and eagerness, demonstrating a heart aligned with God's own generosity.
  • God's Love for the Giver: This verse promises God's affection and favor upon those who give with a joyful heart. It suggests that such giving is not just a duty but a relational act that delights God.

Linguistic Insights

The key phrase "cheerful giver" translates from the Greek word hilaros (ἱλαρός), from which we derive the English word 'hilarious'. This doesn't imply boisterous laughter, but rather a deep, inner joy and eagerness. It describes someone who gives with alacrity, without hesitation or regret, finding genuine pleasure in the act of giving. The contrast is with giving out of lupe (λύπη - sorrow, grief, grudgingly) or anagke (ἀνάγκη - necessity, compulsion).

Practical Application

This verse challenges believers to examine their motives in giving, whether of money, time, or talents. It shifts the focus from the amount given to the heart behind the gift. True Christian giving is an overflow of a grateful and loving heart, reflecting God's own character. It encourages us to cultivate a spirit of generosity that finds joy in sharing, knowing that such an attitude is pleasing to God. This principle applies not only to church offerings but to all areas of life where we are called to share and serve, embodying the truth that "it is more blessed to give than to receive" (Acts 20:35).

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 2 Corinthians 8:12

    For if there be first a willing mind, [it is] accepted according to that a man hath, [and] not according to that he hath not.

  • Acts 20:35

    I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.

  • 1 Chronicles 29:17

    I know also, my God, that thou triest the heart, and hast pleasure in uprightness. As for me, in the uprightness of mine heart I have willingly offered all these things: and now have I seen with joy thy people, which are present here, to offer willingly unto thee.

  • Exodus 25:2

    Speak unto the children of Israel, that they bring me an offering: of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take my offering.

  • Proverbs 11:25

    ¶ The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.

  • Proverbs 22:9

    ¶ He that hath a bountiful eye shall be blessed; for he giveth of his bread to the poor.

  • Deuteronomy 15:7

    If there be among you a poor man of one of thy brethren within any of thy gates in thy land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not harden thine heart, nor shut thine hand from thy poor brother:

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