Devotional: Paul’s devotion to giving.

Glory be to God in the highest, Halleluyah 

Our scripture for today : Corinthians 8:16-24

“We give thanks to God for putting the same devotion I have for you into the heart of Titus. Of course, he enthusiastically accepted our request to go to Corinth, but because he carries you in his heart, he’d already planned on coming.”

Discussion

2 Corinthians 8 has taught us about giving so far. We saw the example of the Macedonian church and most especially the example of our Lord Jesus Christ. 

Today let’s discuss how Paul was able to effectively collect the donations without raising criticism from people and also in a way that it pleases God.

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But thanks be to God who puts the same earnest care for you into the heart of Titus: Paul’s intention is to recommend Titus to them as a trustworthy bearer of their money.

And we have sent with him the brother whose praise is in the gospel throughout all the churches: This brother, Who is he?

This brother accompanied Titus when he went to Corinth on Paul’s behalf.

ii. This brother was well known and praised in the gospel in all the churches.

This brother was also chosen by the churches to travel with Paul, carrying the gift. Beyond these things we know nothing about this man.

c. Avoiding this: that anyone should blame us in this lavish gift: Paul wisely avoided any gossip about his role in the collection by sending Titus and his companion to collect it, and to accompany Paul in carrying it to Jerusalem.

Also in the sight of men is a reminder that all things financial in the church should be conducted above board and properly. Paul took whatever steps were necessary so no one could blame him with financial impropriety. Paul could write like a poet and think like a theologian; but he could also act with the meticulous accuracy and integrity of the best accountant.

Therefore show to them, and before the churches, the proof of your love and of our boasting on your behalf: This is a strong encouragement from Paul to give. He says that when Titus and the unnamed brother come, the Corinthians should show them a good offering.

· Show a good offering because the churches will also know about it and thank God for His work among the Corinthians.

· Show a good offering because the offering given will be proof of your love.

· Show a good offering because Paul has been boasting to others about what givers the Corinthian Christians had been.

Paul asks them to now come through and give like the good givers he has claimed they are.

Let us pray 🤲🏾 

Heavenly Father thank you for teaching us the act of giving not just through words but through the living example of your Son, Jesus Christ.

I receive grace to give willingly, from a heart that pleases God.

I am yours Lord, everything I am and everything I have is yours lord.

In Jesus name AMEN.