2 Corinthians 9:5
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.
2 Corinthians 9:5 (KJV)
Context
The apostle Paul wrote 2 Corinthians to the church in Corinth, addressing, among other things, the collection for the saints in Jerusalem. In this chapter, Paul encourages believers to give generously and cheerfully, emphasizing the principle of sowing and reaping. Verse 5 sits within this discussion, as Paul explains why he sent brethren ahead to Corinth: to prepare the gift the Corinthians had already promised, so that it would be ready as a matter of bounty, not of covetousness.
Meaning
Paul’s words, “Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren,” show his pastoral care and practical wisdom. He did not want the Corinthians’ good intentions to falter or their gift to be given reluctantly. The brethren were to go before him to Corinth and “make up beforehand your bounty“—that is, to ensure the collection was completed in advance, as the Corinthians had already been informed and had pledged. The phrase “as a matter of bounty, and not as of covetousness” draws a clear contrast: the gift should be generous and willing, not grudging or compelled. Paul’s concern was that the manner of giving would reflect a cheerful heart, not reluctance or greed. The preparation itself was a practical safeguard, protecting the Corinthians from the pressure of a last-minute appeal and preserving the voluntary character of their offering.
Biblical connections
This verse connects directly to 2 Corinthians 9:7, where Paul writes that God loves a cheerful giver. The preparation of the gift beforehand was a practical step to avoid last-minute pressure, ensuring that the Corinthians’ giving would be voluntary and joyful. The broader context of 2 Corinthians 8-9 deals with the collection for the saints in Jerusalem, showing that planned, intentional generosity is an expression of grace and care for others.
Application
Cultivate a generous heart: As Paul encouraged the Corinthians, we are called to develop a spirit of generosity, willingly sharing our resources, time, and talents to bless others.
Fulfill commitments: When we make pledges or promises, whether in financial giving or other areas, we should strive to honor them diligently and in a timely manner.
Examine motives: Regularly reflect on why we give. Our giving should flow from a genuine desire to bless others, not from selfish ambition or a desire for recognition.
Be prepared and organized: Planning ahead and being proactive in our giving ensures that our acts of generosity are carried out effectively and without reluctance.
Reflection
Paul’s careful preparation reminds us that our good intentions need structure to become reality. By planning our giving in advance, we protect the joy and willingness of our offering, ensuring that it truly reflects a heart of bounty rather than compulsion.
