2 Corinthians 9:1
For as touching the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you:
Original Language Analysis
Περὶ
touching
G4012
Περὶ
touching
Strong's:
G4012
Word #:
1 of 15
properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas
μὲν
as
G3303
μὲν
as
Strong's:
G3303
Word #:
2 of 15
properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
3 of 15
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
τῆς
G3588
τῆς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
διακονίας
the ministering
G1248
διακονίας
the ministering
Strong's:
G1248
Word #:
5 of 15
attendance (as a servant, etc.); figuratively (eleemosynary) aid, (official) service (especially of the christian teacher, or technically of the diaco
τῆς
G3588
τῆς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
εἰς
to
G1519
εἰς
to
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
7 of 15
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
τοὺς
G3588
τοὺς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἁγίους
the saints
G40
ἁγίους
the saints
Strong's:
G40
Word #:
9 of 15
sacred (physically, pure, morally blameless or religious, ceremonially, consecrated)
περισσόν
superfluous
G4053
περισσόν
superfluous
Strong's:
G4053
Word #:
10 of 15
superabundant (in quantity) or superior (in quality); by implication, excessive; adverbially (with g1537) violently; neuter (as noun) preeminence
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
13 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Historical Context
Written circa AD 55-56 during Paul's third missionary journey, probably from Macedonia. The Jerusalem church faced severe poverty due to famine (Acts 11:28), economic marginalization from Jewish communities for confessing Jesus as Messiah, and the early practice of selling possessions (Acts 2:44-45; 4:32-37) which created ongoing need. Paul's year-long collection effort (begun "a year ago," v. 2) unified his Gentile churches in tangible love for Jewish believers.
Questions for Reflection
- How does viewing financial giving as 'ministry to the saints' rather than optional charity change your perspective on generosity?
- What commitments have you made enthusiastically but left incomplete, like the Corinthians' year-old pledge?
- How does tangible generosity demonstrate the reality of spiritual unity across cultural and economic divides?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
For as touching the ministering to the saints (περὶ τῆς διακονίας τῆς εἰς τοὺς ἁγίους)—Paul's phrase diakonia (διακονία, "service/ministry") elevates financial giving to sacred ministry. This isn't mere charity but covenant solidarity with Jerusalem believers suffering poverty (Acts 11:28-30). The phrase it is superfluous for me to write employs rhetorical praeteritio—saying he won't mention what he immediately proceeds to elaborate across 15 verses, gently motivating completion without harsh command.
Paul's collection for Jerusalem (1 Cor 16:1-4, Rom 15:25-27) served multiple purposes: relieving material need, demonstrating Gentile-Jewish unity in Christ, and fulfilling prophetic images of nations bringing tribute to Zion (Isa 60:5-7). The term saints (hagioi, ἅγιοι) reminds Corinthians that Jerusalem believers, despite poverty, share their holy status in Christ.
The delicate tension—"superfluous to write" yet writing extensively—reflects pastoral wisdom. Paul praises their readiness (v. 2) while ensuring follow-through, combining affirmation with accountability.