2 Corinthians 8:20
Avoiding this, that no man should blame us in this abundance which is administered by us:
Original Language Analysis
στελλόμενοι
Avoiding
G4724
στελλόμενοι
Avoiding
Strong's:
G4724
Word #:
1 of 14
properly, to set fast ("stall"), i.e., (figuratively) to repress (reflexively, abstain from associating with)
μή
that no
G3361
μή
that no
Strong's:
G3361
Word #:
3 of 14
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
τῇ
which
G3588
τῇ
which
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ταύτῃ
G3778
ταύτῃ
Strong's:
G3778
Word #:
10 of 14
the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)
τῇ
which
G3588
τῇ
which
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
11 of 14
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
διακονουμένῃ
is administered
G1247
διακονουμένῃ
is administered
Strong's:
G1247
Word #:
12 of 14
to be an attendant, i.e., wait upon (menially or as a host, friend, or (figuratively) teacher); technically, to act as a christian deacon
Historical Context
Financial scandal destroyed many religious movements in antiquity. Itinerant philosophers and religious teachers were often suspected of profiting from followers. Paul addressed such suspicions throughout his ministry by working for his own support (Acts 18:3, 1 Thessalonians 2:9) and meticulously accounting for charitable funds. His insistence on accountability anticipated modern best practices for nonprofit financial management.
Questions for Reflection
- How should Christian leaders and organizations ensure financial accountability today?
- Why must those handling church funds be 'above reproach,' not merely innocent?
- What safeguards prevent financial misconduct in your church or Christian organizations you support?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Avoiding this, that no man should blame us in this abundance which is administered by us—Paul explains precautionary wisdom: stellomenoi touto (στελλόμενοι τοῦτο, 'avoiding this/taking precaution against this'), namely mē tis hēmas mōmēsētai (μή τις ἡμᾶς μωμήσηται, 'lest anyone blame us') regarding tē hadroptēti tautē (τῇ ἁδρότητι ταύτῃ, 'this abundance/generosity'). The word hadrotēs (ἁδρότης, 'abundance/bounty') emphasizes the collection's substantial size—enough money to attract suspicion and temptation. Diakonoumenē hyph' hēmōn ('being administered by us') acknowledges Paul's organizational role and potential vulnerability to accusation.
This verse reveals Paul's integrity and prudence: he knows that even unfounded accusations can destroy ministry credibility. By involving multiple church-appointed delegates, he insulates himself from charges of embezzlement or favoritism. The care to avoid mōmēsētai ('blame/censure') shows awareness that Christian leaders must be above reproach, especially regarding money (1 Timothy 3:2-3, Titus 1:7). Paul's opponents had already accused him of financial manipulation (2 Corinthians 12:16-18); he refuses to provide ammunition for such charges by handling funds personally or without witnesses.