2 Corinthians 8:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Corinthians 8:5
5 And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God.
Chapter Context
2 Corinthians 8 is a apologetic epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, fellowship, creation. 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 offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 8:5
5 And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God.
Analysis
And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God—Paul expected financial contribution; the Macedonians gave something more foundational: heautous edōkan prōton tō kyriō ('themselves they gave first to the Lord'). The adverb prōton (πρῶτον, 'first') indicates priority: self-consecration precedes fiscal contribution. Only those who have offered themselves as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1) can give money without idolatry.
The phrase dia thelēmatos theou (διὰ θελήματος θεοῦ, 'through the will of God') attributes even their submission to Paul's apostolic ministry to divine initiative. This verse establishes crucial sequence:
- surrender to Christ
- submission to godly leadership
- sacrificial financial giving.
Attempts to give money while withholding the self produce either legalism or manipulation. The Macedonians avoided this trap by recognizing that all Christian action flows from prior divine grace and self-giving.
Historical Context
Paul's surprise ('not as we hoped') suggests he initially sought only financial contributions. The Macedonian churches' total consecration—lives, loyalty, and livelihood—exceeded his expectations and modeled the holistic devotion Paul preached. This contrasts sharply with the Corinthian church's tendency toward factionalism, where members gave loyalty to human leaders (1 Corinthians 1:10-13) rather than first to Christ, then to Christ's appointed servants.
Reflection
- Have you given yourself fully to the Lord before attempting to give your resources?
- How does the sequence—self, then money—prevent both stinginess and manipulation?
- What areas of your life remain unoffered to God, limiting your generosity?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- References God: 2 Corinthians 8:1, 1 Chronicles 12:18, 2 Chronicles 30:12, Romans 6:13, 12:1
- References Lord: 1 Samuel 1:28