2 Corinthians 8:19
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2 Corinthians 8:19
19 And 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:
Chapter Context
2 Corinthians 8 is a apologetic epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of grace, fellowship, mercy. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 55-56 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Paul defended his apostleship against challenges in a culture valuing rhetorical prowess.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-24: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 2 Corinthians and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
2 Corinthians 8:19
19 And 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:
Analysis
And 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—This brother was not only reputable but formally appointed: cheirotonetheeis hypo tōn ekklēsiōn (χειροτονηθεὶς ὑπὸ τῶν ἐκκλησιῶν, 'chosen by the churches'). The verb cheirotoneō (χειροτονέω) literally means 'to stretch out the hand,' possibly indicating voting by raised hands—early democratic church governance. He would synekdēmos hēmōn (συνέκδημος ἡμῶν, 'travel companion with us') administering tēn charin tautēn ('this grace-gift').
Paul's purpose statement is crucial: pros doxan tou kyriou (πρὸς δόξαν τοῦ κυρίου, 'toward the glory of the Lord') and prokymian hēmōn (προθυμίαν ἡμῶν, 'our readiness'). The collection glorifies Christ by demonstrating unity and love; it also reveals the churches' willingness to serve. The phrase tēn charin tautēn tēn diakonoumenēn hyph' hēmōn ('this grace being ministered by us') again uses charis for the collection—it's grace received (enabling giving) and grace given (the gift itself). Multi-church appointment, Paul's accompaniment, and focus on Christ's glory created maximum transparency and accountability.
Historical Context
The phrase 'chosen of the churches' indicates early Christian congregational authority in selecting leaders and representatives. Unlike later hierarchical episcopacy, first-century church governance often involved congregational participation in leadership selection (Acts 6:1-6, 14:23). This democratic element checked apostolic power and ensured accountability, as seen here where churches appointed the collection delegate, not Paul alone.
Reflection
- How should Christian financial ministries ensure transparency and multi-party accountability?
- What does it mean practically that giving is 'to the glory of the Lord,' not just helping people?
- How can democratic church governance coexist with pastoral authority?
Word Studies
- Grace: χάρις (Charis) G5485 - Grace, favor
Cross-References
- Grace: 2 Corinthians 4:15