2 Corinthians
Chapter 9
A further exhortation to almsgiving: the fruits of it.
- 1
For concerning the ministry, that is done towards the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you.
- 2
For I know your ready mind: for which I boast of you to the Macedonians. That Achaia also was ready a year ago, and your emulation hath provoked a great many.
- 3
Now I have sent the brethren, that what we boast of concerning you, be not made void in this behalf, that, (as I have said) you may be ready:
- 4
Lest, when the Macedonians shall come with me, and find you unprepared, we (not to say ye) should be ashamed in this matter.
- 5
Therefore, I thought it necessary to desire the brethren that they would go to you before, and prepare this blessing before promised, to be ready, so as a blessing, not as covetousness.
- 6
Now this I say: He who soweth sparingly, shall also reap sparingly; and he who soweth in blessings, shall also reap of blessings.
- 7
Every one as he hath determined in his heart, not with sadness, or of necessity: For God loveth a cheerful giver.
- 8
And God is able to make all grace abound in you: that ye always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work,
- 9
As it is written: He hath dispersed abroad, he hath given to the poor: his justice remaineth for ever.
- 10
Now he that ministereth seed to the sower, will both give you bread to eat, and will multiply your seed, and increase the growth of the fruits of your justice:
- 11
That being enriched in all things, you may abound unto all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.
- 12
For the administration of this service doth not only supply the want of the saints, but aboundeth also by many thanksgivings in the Lord.
- 13
By the proof of this ministry, glorifying God in the obedience of your confession to the gospel of Christ, and for the liberality of your communicating to them, and to all,
- 14
And in their praying for you, longing for you, because of the eminent grace of God in you.
- 15
Thanks be to God for his unspeakable gift.