2 Corinthians 8--"Encouragement to give generously"

 The word "grace" in verse 1 is used of the kindness of a master toward his servants, and especially of God toward men.  Paul uses some form of the word "give" 6 times.  The word "give" used in verse 5  is considered a hyperbole (something intentionally overstated) most likely translated "disregarding myself, I give as much as ever I can." 

Paul builds on the thought of "obedience" from chapter 7 verse 15.  He tells how they've witnessed and received the kindness of God through gifts from churches throughout Macedonia.  These churches are facing severe persecution and extreme poverty, yet they insisted on giving to Paul and his ministry.  They saw the suffering Paul was facing, and wanted to give him some relief.  These churches were not giving to earn some kind of favor, because they had committed everything they are and everything they have first to God.  Paul repeats to the Corinthians all they are so good at--faith, speech, knowledge, accomplishments, and love.  But generosity is something at which they've not exceled, and Paul gently encourages them to move toward proving themselves by extending grace in this way.  Paul is quick to point out this is not a commandment, not something that is required.  But he points to the pattern of Christ Jesus, who was rich in heaven and became poor for their sake.  So Paul offers his opinion--since they willingly partnered with this ministry, it would be a great satisfaction to see it completed.  He sets out another pattern of giving that was so important to these scattered, persecuted churches.--Willing give what you can when you can.  The Corinthian church is enjoying a time of abundance, but as evidenced by the churches in Macedonia, that might not always be the case.  So to be fair, give now while you have it.  And across the board, if the other churches would do the same, the ministry can continue.  Paul slips in a little history lesson by quoting Exodus 16:18, which references the manna given to the Israelites in the wilderness.  Paul takes the time to once again be thankful for Titus, who has been an important part of Paul's ministry at Corinth.  He was with Paul when he started the Corinthian church, but now he's going there because his heart is there.  

Money is never an easy subject to bring up.  Paul knew--through the prompting of the Holy Spirit--that these new churches needed to have some tangible investment in each other and in their common ministry. Many denominations still approach missions following the pattern laid out in this chapter.   Generosity is important to the moving forward of the gospel, and money is just one aspect. I am changed by verse 7 (also Exodus 16:18).  The Israelites were told to gather only as much manna as they needed in a day.  Some people pushed their luck and gathered a little more.  Some people gathered less.  But at the end of the day, the hoarders didn't have extra and the reserved didn't go hungry. God in His wisdom provides exactly what we need.  And out of thankfulness for the abundance of His generosity, we give. For our good and His glory.