2 Corinthians 8:1-2

2 Corinthians 8:1-2

[1] Moreover,  brethren,  to wit  of the grace  of God  bestowed  on  the churches  of Macedonia;  [2] How that  in  a great  trial  of affliction  the abundance  of their  joy  and  their  deep  poverty  abounded  unto  the riches  of their  liberality. 

What does 2 Corinthians 8:1-2 Mean?

Contextual Meaning

Paul tactfully began his appeal by referring to the good example of others rather than to the duty of his readers. The behavior of the Philippian, Thessalonian, Berean, and perhaps other Christians manifested the grace of God. These believers were both poor and persecuted (cf. 1 Thessalonians 1:6; 1 Thessalonians 2:14; Acts 16:20; Acts 17:5). Notwithstanding they demonstrated joy and generosity (cf. Romans 12:8; Philippians 4:15).
"In Mark 12:41-441 a similar pattern to that of 2 Corinthians 4:7-15 is used to describe the Macedonian participation in the collection. Out of their affliction and depth of poverty comes a wealth of liberality. Just as life has come from death in Paul"s ministry, so here the Macedonians give liberally from their scarce monetary resources." [1]
"The paradox of Paul"s expression, "the abundance ... of their extreme poverty" ( 2 Corinthians 8:2) lies at the heart of this section; and it invites the present-day reader to see how Paul regarded the meaning of Christian commitment in the most practical area of stewardship." [2]
"Liberality" means generosity that is free of any self-serving motive. Paul did not mention the size of their gift. Their attitude and their sacrifice were more important (cf. 1711688772_2).
"Christian giving is estimated in terms not of quantity but of sacrifice." [3]
The first of ten occurrences of the word "grace" (Gr. charis) in chapters8,9 occurs here. Paul used it to refer to God"s enablement to participate in the collection here (cf. 2 Corinthians 9:8; 2 Corinthians 9:14). Elsewhere it refers to the honor and opportunity of giving, which God gives ( 2 Corinthians 8:4), and God"s lavish display of His generosity ( 2 Corinthians 8:9). It also refers to the offering itself as an expression of goodwill ( 2 Corinthians 8:6; 2 Corinthians 8:19). Paul further referred to grace as a generous, virtuous act of helping by sharing ( 2 Corinthians 8:7). He also used it as a synonym for thanks ( 2 Corinthians 8:16; 2 Corinthians 9:15). Thus the range of meanings of charis is quite broad.