The Generosity of the Macedonians

2 Corinthians 8:1-6

Now, brothers, we must tell you about the grace God has given the congregations in Macedonia.

Despite severe trials, and even though they are desperately poor, their joy has overflowed in a wealth of generosity.

I tell you they have not merely given according to their means, but of their own free will they have given beyond their means.

They begged and pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service for God’s people.

Also, they didn’t do this in the way we had expected, but first they gave themselves to the Lord, which means, by God’s will, to us.

All this has led us to urge Titus to bring this same gracious gift to completion among you, since he has already made a beginning of it.