2 Corinthians 9:6

The Apostle Paul, in 2 Corinthians 9:6, lays out a foundational principle regarding giving and generosity, often referred to as the law of sowing and reaping. This verse is part of his earnest appeal to the Corinthian believers concerning their contribution to the impoverished saints in Jerusalem. Paul assures them that their liberality will not go unrewarded, establishing a direct correlation between the measure of their giving and the measure of their receiving.

Context

This verse is nestled within Paul's extensive discussion (chapters 8-9) on Christian giving, encouraging the Corinthians to complete their promised collection for the needy believers in Jerusalem. He uses the example of the Macedonian churches' extraordinary generosity (2 Corinthians 8:1-5) to inspire them. Paul emphasizes that giving should be voluntary, cheerful, and based on faith in God's abundant provision, not on compulsion or reluctance. The agricultural metaphor of sowing and reaping serves as a powerful illustration for the spiritual reality of their financial contributions.

Key Themes

• The Divine Principle of Sowing and Reaping: This verse highlights a universal spiritual law, not limited to agriculture, but extending to all areas of life, especially generosity. The return is proportionate to the investment.
• Generosity and God's Provision: Paul teaches that generous giving is not a loss but an investment that God will honor. The more one gives, the more God provides resources for future giving and for personal needs, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His generous people.
• Attitude in Giving: While not explicitly stated in this verse, the broader context of 2 Corinthians 9:7 clarifies that the *attitude* behind the giving is crucial. Sowing "bountifully" implies giving willingly and cheerfully, not grudgingly.

Linguistic Insights

• "Soweth sparingly": The Greek word for "sparingly" is pheido (φειδόμενος), meaning to spare, to refrain, to be parsimonious or stingy. It conveys the idea of holding back, giving little, or being hesitant.
• "Reap also sparingly": The consequence directly mirrors the action, implying a limited return for a limited investment.
• "Soweth bountifully": The Greek phrase for "bountifully" is ep' eulogiais (ἐπ' εὐλογίαις), which literally means "with blessings" or "with abundant blessings." This is a powerful phrase, suggesting that the act of sowing itself is accompanied by blessings or done with a generous, blessed disposition. It implies giving liberally and with a sense of purpose and blessing.
• "Reap also bountifully": The return for such generous sowing is also abundant, a reflection of God's abundant nature and His promise to bless those who give liberally.

Related Scriptures

This principle is echoed throughout Scripture, notably in Galatians 6:7, which states, "Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." The concept is also present in the Old Testament, such as in Proverbs 11:24, "There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty." These verses reinforce the consistent biblical teaching that God honors generosity and wise stewardship.

Practical Application

For believers today, 2 Corinthians 9:6 serves as a powerful encouragement to embrace generosity in all areas of life, especially in giving to God's work and to those in need. It teaches us that giving is not merely an obligation but an opportunity to participate in God's economy, where our faithfulness is met with His abundant grace. It challenges us to examine our hearts and attitudes towards our resources, trusting that God is the ultimate provider and that He delights in a generous spirit. This principle applies not only to financial giving but also to investing our time, talents, and love for others, knowing that our efforts for the Kingdom will yield a bountiful harvest.