‏ 2 Corinthians 9

* The reason for sending Titus to collect their alms. (1-5) The

Corinthians to be liberal and cheerful, The apostle thanks God

for his unspeakable gift. (6-15)

1-5 When we would have others do good, we must act toward them

prudently and tenderly, and give them time. Christians should

consider what is for the credit of their profession, and

endeavour to adorn the doctrine of God their Saviour in all

things. The duty of ministering to the saints is so plain, that

there would seem no need to exhort Christians to it; yet

self-love contends so powerfully against the love of Christ,

that it is often necessary to stir up their minds by way of

remembrance. 6-15 Money bestowed in charity, may to the carnal mind seem

thrown away, but when given from proper principles, it is seed

sown, from which a valuable increase may be expected. It should

be given carefully. Works of charity, like other good works,

should be done with thought and design. Due thought, as to our

circumstances, and those we are about to relieve, will direct

our gifts for charitable uses. Help should be given freely, be

it more or less; not grudgingly, but cheerfully. While some

scatter, and yet increase; others withhold more than is meet,

and it tends to poverty. If we had more faith and love, we

should waste less on ourselves, and sow more in hope of a

plentiful increase. Can a man lose by doing that with which God

is pleased? He is able to make all grace abound towards us, and

to abound in us; to give a large increase of spiritual and of

temporal good things. He can make us to have enough in all

things; and to be content with what we have. God gives not only

enough for ourselves, but that also wherewith we may supply the

wants of others, and this should be as seed to be sown. We must

show the reality of our subjection to the gospel, by works of

charity. This will be for the credit of our profession, and to

the praise and glory of God. Let us endeavour to copy the

example of Christ, being unwearied in doing good, and deeming it

more blessed to give than to receive. Blessed be God for the

unspeakable gift of his grace, whereby he enables and inclines

some of his people to bestow upon others, and others to be

grateful for it; and blessed be his glorious name to all

eternity, for Jesus Christ, that inestimable gift of his love,

through whom this and every other good thing, pertaining to life

and godliness, are freely given unto us, beyond all expression,

measure, or bounds.