Delegation and Preparation for the Relief Collection
2 Corinthians 8:16-9:5
8
Chapter 8
16But thanks be to God, who puts the same zeal for you in the heart of Titus,17For he not only accepted the exhortation, but being more earnest than ever, he went to you willingly.18But we sent with him the brother whose praise is in the gospel throughout all the churches—19not only, but also having been appointed by the churches as our fellow traveler with this grace ministry—the one being administered by us for the glory of the Lord and our eagerness—20avoiding this, so that no one will blame us in the matter of this abundant ministry administered by us,21for we provide good things not only before the Lord but also before men.22But we sent with them our brother, whom we have tested in many things many times and found earnest. Now he is much more earnest, with much confidence in you.23whether for Titus, my partner and fellow worker for you; or for our brothers, apostles of the churches, the glory of Christ.24Therefore, show them the proof of your love and of our boasting on your behalf, in the face of the churches.
9
Chapter 9
1Concerning the ministry for the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you.2For I know your eagerness, which I boast about on your behalf to the Macedonians—that Achaia has been ready since last year, and your zeal has stirred up most of them.3But I sent the brothers so that our boasting on behalf of you might not be emptied in this respect, so that just as I said, you might be prepared.4lest somehow, if the Macedonians come with me and find you unprepared, we—for not to mention you—should be put to shame in this confidence.5Therefore I considered it necessary to exhort the brothers to go on ahead to you and prepare beforehand your previously promised blessing, so that it will be ready as a blessing and not as greed.