by Ester yusufu | 31 December 2024 08:46 pm12
2 Corinthians 9:11–12
“You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God.”
Paul begins this section by reminding the Corinthian believers that God is the provider. In verse 10, he says:
“Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed…” (2 Cor. 9:10)
This echoes the truth found in James 1:17:
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights…”
This shows that everything we have—our resources, money, time, skills—are gifts from God, and He gives them with a purpose.
Paul clarifies why God blesses us:
“You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion…” (2 Cor. 9:11)
The goal of prosperity is not luxury or selfish gain but kingdom generosity. Paul is echoing the Old Testament principle of caring for others, especially the poor and fellow believers (see Proverbs 19:17: “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord…”).
Paul affirms this again in 2 Corinthians 9:8:
“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times… you will abound in every good work.”
Blessing always carries responsibility. God entrusts us with resources so we may reflect His character—especially His generosity and care for the needy.
Our giving is not only practical but spiritual. It causes people to thank and praise God.
“Through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.” (2 Cor. 9:11)
“…overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God.” (2 Cor. 9:12)
This echoes Matthew 5:16:
“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Giving becomes a ministry that stirs worship in the hearts of others.
Later in verse 13, Paul says:
“…because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, others will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ…” (2 Cor. 9:13)
Generosity is a fruit of genuine faith. It’s how we live out the gospel we confess. It’s not just a transaction; it’s a testimony.
Earlier in the chapter, Paul teaches the principle of sowing and reaping:
“Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.” (2 Cor. 9:6)
This principle reminds us that God honors and multiplies what is given in faith (cf. Luke 6:38: “Give, and it will be given to you…”).
So, what is Paul teaching us in 2 Corinthians 9:11–12?
Let us therefore pray:
“Lord, make us faithful stewards of everything You have entrusted to us. May our giving always reflect Your generosity and bring glory to Your name.”
Be blessed and be a blessing.
Source URL: https://wingulamashahidi.org/en/2024/12/31/understanding-2-corinthians-911-12-gods-purpose-in-blessing-us/
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