2 Corinthians 9:11
Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.
Original Language Analysis
εἰς
to
G1519
εἰς
to
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
4 of 13
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
ἁπλότητα
bountifulness
G572
ἁπλότητα
bountifulness
Strong's:
G572
Word #:
6 of 13
singleness, i.e., (subjectively) sincerity (without dissimulation or self-seeking), or (objectively) generosity (copious bestowal)
κατεργάζεται
causeth
G2716
κατεργάζεται
causeth
Strong's:
G2716
Word #:
8 of 13
to work fully, i.e., accomplish; by implication, to finish, fashion
δι'
through
G1223
δι'
through
Strong's:
G1223
Word #:
9 of 13
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
εὐχαριστίαν
thanksgiving
G2169
εὐχαριστίαν
thanksgiving
Strong's:
G2169
Word #:
11 of 13
gratitude; actively, grateful language (to god, as an act of worship)
Cross References
2 Corinthians 4:15For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.2 Corinthians 9:12For the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God;2 Corinthians 1:11Ye also helping together by prayer for us, that for the gift bestowed upon us by the means of many persons thanks may be given by many on our behalf.1 Corinthians 1:5That in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge;2 Corinthians 8:19And not that only, but who was also chosen of the churches to travel with us with this grace, which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and declaration of your ready mind:2 Corinthians 8:16But thanks be to God, which put the same earnest care into the heart of Titus for you.2 Chronicles 31:10And Azariah the chief priest of the house of Zadok answered him, and said, Since the people began to bring the offerings into the house of the LORD, we have had enough to eat, and have left plenty: for the LORD hath blessed his people; and that which is left is this great store.Romans 12:8Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.
Historical Context
Greco-Roman patronage expected client gratitude toward the human patron. Paul redirects thanksgiving: recipients thank God, not human givers (though v. 14 shows they do pray for donors). This prevents pride in givers and dependence in receivers. Both recognize God as ultimate Provider. This theology challenged cultural norms where wealthy patrons expected public honor and client subservience. Christian generosity creates mutual thanksgiving to God, not hierarchical obligation.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you respond when recipients of your generosity fail to thank you—does their thanksgiving to God suffice?
- What percentage of God's 'enriching' you goes toward 'bountifulness' versus personal comfort or security?
- How can you structure your giving to clearly point recipients toward thanking God rather than thanking you?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness (ἐν παντὶ πλουτιζόμενοι εἰς πᾶσαν ἁπλότητα)—The verb ploutizō (πλουτίζω, "make rich, enrich") appears in present passive participle: "being continually enriched by God." Wealth comes from God, not personal cleverness. Haplotēs (ἁπλότης, "simplicity, generosity, liberality") carries connotations of single-minded devotion and unhesitating generosity—the opposite of divided loyalty or calculating stinginess. God enriches us not for luxury but for liberality.
Which causeth through us thanksgiving to God (ἥτις κατεργάζεται δι᾽ ἡμῶν εὐχαριστίαν τῷ θεῷ)—katergazomai (κατεργάζομαι, "produces, accomplishes") indicates generosity actively creates thanksgiving. The phrase through us (δι᾽ ἡμῶν) reveals we're instruments: our generosity isn't the ultimate cause but the means through which God receives glory. The noun eucharistia (εὐχαριστία, "thanksgiving") appears frequently in 2 Corinthians 9:11-12—giving creates a cascade of gratitude.
This verse unveils God's economy: He enriches believers → they give generously → recipients thank God → God receives glory. The giver is privileged participant in this cycle, not ultimate benefactor. Our wealth exists to generate worship. Material blessing that doesn't produce generosity and thanksgiving has missed its purpose. Money is a test: will we hoard for self or deploy for God's glory?