As Galatians 2:10, 1 Corinthians 16:1-4, and Romans 15:25-28 show, this collection for the poor Christians in Jerusalem was a focal point of Paul’s ministry. As he encourages the Corinthians to do their part, he helps us see the reasons for and importance of generosity in the Christian life.

An Outline of the Passage

1-8 An Example of the Grace of Giving: The Macedonian Churches
9 The Motive for our Giving: We have received the grace of Jesus Christ
10-11 The Example of the Corinthians’ Past Desire to Give
12-15 The Principles of Proportion, Reciprocity, and Equality

Giving is a Response

Our giving is motivated by the giving of Jesus. (9)

Our giving is empowered by the grace of God. (1-3)

Giving is a Responsibility

By giving ourselves to the Lord… (5a)

…we give ourselves to each other… (5b)

…and therefore give of our resources. (12-15)

Read Ahead: 2 Corinthians 8:16-9:5