2 Corinthians 9:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Corinthians 9:5
5 Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and make up beforehand your bounty, whereof ye had notice before, that the same might be ready, as a matter of bounty, and not as of covetousness.
Chapter Context
2 Corinthians 9 is a apologetic epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of obedience, discipleship, 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 13-15: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 9:5
5 Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and make up beforehand your bounty, whereof ye had notice before, that the same might be ready, as a matter of bounty, and not as of covetousness.
Analysis
Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren—The verb parakaleō (παρακαλέω, "exhort/encourage") appears throughout 2 Corinthians (1:4, 6; 2:8; 7:6) describing both divine comfort and apostolic appeal. That they would go before unto you (ἵνα προέλθωσιν εἰς ὑμᾶς) uses proerchomai, "go ahead/precede," giving Corinthians time to prepare before Paul's arrival with Macedonians.
And make up beforehand your bounty (προκαταρτίσωσιν τὴν προεπηγγελμένην εὐλογίαν ὑμῶν)—prokatartizō (προκαταρτίζω) means "prepare in advance, arrange beforehand." The object is bounty (eulogia, εὐλογία), literally "blessing/good word." Their gift is a "blessing" both to recipients and to God. Whereof ye had notice before (τὴν προεπηγγελμένην, "previously promised") reminds them this isn't new but completing prior commitment.
As a matter of bounty, and not as of covetousness (ὡς εὐλογίαν καὶ μὴ ὡς πλεονεξίαν)—pleonexia (πλεονεξία, "greed, covetousness") contrasts sharply with eulogia. Advance preparation ensures giving flows from generosity, not grudging last-minute compliance extracted by pressure. The manner of giving matters as much as the amount.
Historical Context
Ancient giving often occurred under social compulsion—wealthy patrons expected public recognition, and clients gave tribute to secure favor. Paul transforms this system: Christian giving is blessing-motivated (eulogia) rather than greed-motivated (pleonexia), whether greed to get (holding back) or greed for recognition (ostentatious display). The advance preparation allows prayerful, proportionate giving rather than impulsive, emotionally manipulated responses.
Reflection
- How does advance preparation for giving (budgeting, planning) help ensure it flows from genuine generosity rather than pressure or guilt?
- What motivates your financial decisions—blessing others and glorifying God, or maintaining/increasing your own security and comfort?
- How can you structure your giving to reflect covenant generosity rather than cultural compulsion?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Genesis 33:11, 1 Samuel 25:27, Philippians 4:17