GIVING CHEERFULLY Chapter 9 represents the conclusion of Paul's specific appeal about the gift he was collecting for Jerusalem. While it remains very personal, with references to the specifics of their life and examples they would know, Paul also makes some broad, timeless points - some of which have become "classic giving texts" within the Christian tradition. We'll sift through both together, so let's read 2 Cor 9:1-15 ... 2 COR 9:1-5 1 Now it is superfluous for me to write

FINISH DOING IT In chapter 8:1-11, Paul appealed to the Corinthians based on 2 stories of grace (Macedonian and Divine). Now as we finish out the chapter, describes the care that he plans to take in administrating their giving. It's an important element of giving, so let's read 2 Cor 8:11-24 together ... 2 COR 8:11-15 11 So now finish doing it as well, so that your readiness in desiring it may be matched by your completing it out of what you have. 12 For if the readiness is t

GRACE, GRACE, GRACE As we open 2 Corinthians 8-9, Paul is going to address a touchy subject: a financial gift that the Corinthians had agreed to take up, but hadn't gotten around to. And yet, as in much of Scripture, these difficult moments become teaching tools from Paul for the Corinthians and (thru that) from the Spirit of God for us. And since generosity should be a characteristic in those who've known God's generous nature, let's read 2 Cor 8:1-11 together ... 2 COR 8:1-

THE GOD WHO COMFORTS In chapter 6, Paul shared some hard things with the Corinthians as part of his appeal to them. Now in chapter 7, Paul's interest is on the relationship, so he begins, "Make room in your hearts for us." There's much to learn, so let's read 2 Cor 7:2-16 together ... 2 COR 7:2-4 2 Make room in your hearts for us. We have wronged no one, we have corrupted no one, we have taken advantage of no one. 3 I do not say this to condemn you, for I said before that you