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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>2 Corinthians 8:3 For I testify that they gave according to their ability and even beyond it. Of their own accord,</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/2_corinthians/8-3.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/11/47_2Co_08_03.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="2 Corinthians 8:3 - Generosity Commended" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="For I testify that they gave according to their ability and even beyond it. Of their own accord," /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head> <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-LR4HSKRP2H"></script> <script> window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'G-LR4HSKRP2H'); </script><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/2_corinthians/8-3.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/2_corinthians/8-3.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/2_corinthians/">2 Corinthians</a> > <a href="/2_corinthians/8.htm">Chapter 8</a> > Verse 3</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad3.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/2_corinthians/8-2.htm" title="2 Corinthians 8:2">◄</a> 2 Corinthians 8:3 <a href="/2_corinthians/8-4.htm" title="2 Corinthians 8:4">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/8.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/2_corinthians/8.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/8.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />For I can testify that they gave not only what they could afford, but far more. And they did it of their own free will.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/2_corinthians/8.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/8.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />For I testify that they gave according to their ability and even beyond it. Of their own accord,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/2_corinthians/8.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />For I testify <i>that</i> according to <i>their</i> ability and beyond <i>their</i> ability, <i>they were</i> willing of themselves,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/8.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />For to <i>their</i> power, I bear record, yea, and beyond <i>their</i> power <i>they were</i> willing of themselves;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/2_corinthians/8.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />For I bear witness that according to <i>their</i> ability, yes, and beyond <i>their</i> ability, <i>they were</i> freely willing,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/2_corinthians/8.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />For I testify that according to their ability, and beyond their ability, <i>they gave</i> voluntarily,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/8.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />For I testify that according to their ability, and beyond their ability, they gave of their own accord,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/2_corinthians/8.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />For I testify that according to their ability, and beyond their ability <i>they gave</i> of their own accord,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/2_corinthians/8.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />For I testify that according to their ability, and beyond their ability, <i>they gave</i> of their own accord,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/2_corinthians/8.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />For I testify that according to their ability, and beyond their ability, <i>they gave</i> voluntarily,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/2_corinthians/8.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />I can testify that, according to their ability and even beyond their ability, of their own accord,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/2_corinthians/8.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />I testify that, on their own, according to their ability and beyond their ability, <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/2_corinthians/8.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />For according to their power, I bear witness, yea and beyond their power, they gave of their own accord,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/2_corinthians/8.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />They gave as much as they could afford and even more, simply because they wanted to. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/2_corinthians/8.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />For according to their power, I bear witness, yea and beyond their power, they gave of their own accord,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/2_corinthians/8.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />I assure you that by their own free will they have given all they could, even more than they could afford.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/2_corinthians/8.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />I can assure you that they gave as much as they could, and even more than they could. Of their own free will <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/2_corinthians/8.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />I can testify that by their own free will they have given to the utmost of their ability, yes, even beyond their ability. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/2_corinthians/8.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />For I testify, they gave according to their means and beyond their means. They did so voluntarily,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/2_corinthians/8.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />For according to their power, I testify, yes and beyond their power, they gave of their own accord,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/2_corinthians/8.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />For to their power, I bear testimony, and even beyond their power, they were willing of themselves;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/2_corinthians/8.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />For I can testify that to the utmost of their power, and even beyond their power, they have of their own free will given help.<div class="vheading2"><b>Majority Text Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/2_corinthians/8.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />For I testify that they gave according to their ability and even beyond it. Of their own accord,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/2_corinthians/8.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />For according to their power, I testify, yes and beyond their power, they gave of their own accord, <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/2_corinthians/8.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />because, according to [their] power, I testify, and above [their] power, they were willing of themselves,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/2_corinthians/8.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />For I testify <i>that</i> according to <i>their</i> ability and beyond <i>their</i> ability, <i>they were</i> willing of themselves,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/2_corinthians/8.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> because, according to their power, I testify, and above their power, they were willing of themselves,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/2_corinthians/8.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />For according to power, I testify, and above power chosen voluntarily;<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/2_corinthians/8.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />For according to their power ( I bear them witness), and beyond their power, they were willing. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/2_corinthians/8.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />And I bear witness to them, that they were willing to accept what was in accord with their ability, and even what was beyond their ability.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/2_corinthians/8.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />For according to their means, I can testify, and beyond their means, spontaneously,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/2_corinthians/8.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />For, as I can testify, they voluntarily gave according to their means, and even beyond their means,<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/2_corinthians/8.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />For to their power, I can testify, yes, and beyond their power they have shared of their own accord.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/aramaic-plain-english/2_corinthians/8.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a></span><br />For I testify that according to their power and more than their power in the willingness of their soul,<div class="vheading2"><b>NT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/anderson/2_corinthians/8.htm">Anderson New Testament</a></span><br />for I testify that according to their power, and beyond their power, they gave voluntarily,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/godbey/2_corinthians/8.htm">Godbey New Testament</a></span><br />Because I witness, that according to their ability, and beyond their ability they were anxious,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/haweis/2_corinthians/8.htm">Haweis New Testament</a></span><br />For unto their power, I bear them witness, and above their power, they were voluntarily ready <i>to give</i>:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/mace/2_corinthians/8.htm">Mace New Testament</a></span><br />(I bear them witness) yea, and beyond their power:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/2_corinthians/8.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />For I can testify that to the utmost of their power, and even beyond their power, they have of their own free will given help.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worrell/2_corinthians/8.htm">Worrell New Testament</a></span><br />For, according to <i>their</i> power, I bear witness, and beyond their power, <i>they gave</i> of their own accord;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worsley/2_corinthians/8.htm">Worsley New Testament</a></span><br />For to <i>their</i> power, I bear <i>them</i> witness, yea and beyond <i>their</i> power, <i>they contributed</i> of their own accord:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/2_corinthians/8-3.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ddheG4hMg28?start=1325" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/8.htm">Generosity Commended</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">2</span>In the terrible ordeal they suffered, their abundant joy and deep poverty overflowed into rich generosity. <span class="reftext">3</span><span class="highl"><a href="/greek/3754.htm" title="3754: hoti (Conj) -- Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because.">For</a> <a href="/greek/3140.htm" title="3140: martyrō (V-PIA-1S) -- To witness, bear witness, give evidence, testify, give a good report. From martus; to be a witness, i.e. Testify.">I testify that</a> <a href="/greek/2596.htm" title="2596: kata (Prep) -- A primary particle; down, in varied relations (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined).">they gave according to</a> <a href="/greek/1411.htm" title="1411: dynamin (N-AFS) -- From dunamai; force; specially, miraculous power.">their ability</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and even</a> <a href="/greek/3844.htm" title="3844: para (Prep) -- Gen: from; dat: beside, in the presence of; acc: alongside of. ">beyond</a> <a href="/greek/1411.htm" title="1411: dynamin (N-AFS) -- From dunamai; force; specially, miraculous power.">it.</a> <a href="/greek/830.htm" title="830: authairetoi (Adj-NMP) -- Of one's own accord, self-chosen. From autos and the same as hairetizo; self-chosen, i.e. voluntary.">Of their own accord,</a> </span> <span class="reftext">4</span>they earnestly pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/acts/11-29.htm">Acts 11:29</a></span><br />So the disciples, each according to his ability, decided to send relief to the brothers living in Judea.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/15-26.htm">Romans 15:26</a></span><br />For Macedonia and Achaia were pleased to make a contribution for the poor among the saints in Jerusalem.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/philippians/4-15.htm">Philippians 4:15-18</a></span><br />And as you Philippians know, in the early days of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church but you partnered with me in the matter of giving and receiving. / For even while I was in Thessalonica, you provided for my needs again and again. / Not that I am seeking a gift, but I am looking for the fruit that may be credited to your account. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_thessalonians/2-8.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:8</a></span><br />We cared so deeply that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God, but our own lives as well. That is how beloved you have become to us.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_corinthians/9-7.htm">2 Corinthians 9:7</a></span><br />Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/galatians/6-10.htm">Galatians 6:10</a></span><br />Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to the family of faith.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_john/3-17.htm">1 John 3:17</a></span><br />If anyone with earthly possessions sees his brother in need, but withholds his compassion from him, how can the love of God abide in him?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/luke/21-1.htm">Luke 21:1-4</a></span><br />Then Jesus looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, / and He saw a poor widow put in two small copper coins. / “Truly I tell you,” He said, “this poor widow has put in more than all the others. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/mark/12-41.htm">Mark 12:41-44</a></span><br />As Jesus was sitting opposite the treasury, He watched the crowd putting money into it. And many rich people put in large amounts. / Then one poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which amounted to a small fraction of a denarius. / Jesus called His disciples to Him and said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more than all the others into the treasury. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/acts/2-44.htm">Acts 2:44-45</a></span><br />All the believers were together and had everything in common. / Selling their possessions and goods, they shared with anyone who was in need.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/acts/4-32.htm">Acts 4:32-35</a></span><br />The multitude of believers was one in heart and soul. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they owned. / With great power the apostles continued to give their testimony about the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And abundant grace was upon them all. / There were no needy ones among them, because those who owned lands or houses would sell their property, bring the proceeds from the sales, ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/12-13.htm">Romans 12:13</a></span><br />Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/hebrews/13-16.htm">Hebrews 13:16</a></span><br />And do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/6-3.htm">Matthew 6:3-4</a></span><br />But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, / so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/3-9.htm">Proverbs 3:9-10</a></span><br />Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your crops; / then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">For to their power, I bear record, yes, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves;</p><p class="hdg">to.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_corinthians/9-6.htm">2 Corinthians 9:6,7</a></b></br> But this <i>I say</i>, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/mark/14-8.htm">Mark 14:8</a></b></br> She hath done what she could: she is come aforehand to anoint my body to the burying.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/acts/11-29.htm">Acts 11:29</a></b></br> Then the disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to send relief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judaea:</p><p class="hdg">I bear.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/romans/10-2.htm">Romans 10:2</a></b></br> For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/galatians/4-15.htm">Galatians 4:15</a></b></br> Where is then the blessedness ye spake of? for I bear you record, that, if <i>it had been</i> possible, ye would have plucked out your own eyes, and have given them to me.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/colossians/4-13.htm">Colossians 4:13</a></b></br> For I bear him record, that he hath a great zeal for you, and them <i>that are</i> in Laodicea, and them in Hierapolis.</p><p class="hdg">beyond.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_corinthians/8-12.htm">2 Corinthians 8:12,16,17</a></b></br> For if there be first a willing mind, <i>it is</i> accepted according to that a man hath, <i>and</i> not according to that he hath not… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/exodus/35-5.htm">Exodus 35:5,21,22,29</a></b></br> Take ye from among you an offering unto the LORD: whosoever <i>is</i> of a willing heart, let him bring it, an offering of the LORD; gold, and silver, and brass, … </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_chronicles/29-5.htm">1 Chronicles 29:5,6,9,13-17</a></b></br> The gold for <i>things</i> of gold, and the silver for <i>things</i> of silver, and for all manner of work <i>to be made</i> by the hands of artificers. And who <i>then</i> is willing to consecrate his service this day unto the LORD? … </p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/2_corinthians/1-8.htm">Ability</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-3.htm">Able</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-15.htm">Accord</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/15-49.htm">Bear</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-8.htm">Free</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-2.htm">Help</a> <a href="/acts/26-14.htm">Impulse</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/2-7.htm">Means</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-7.htm">Power</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-23.htm">Record</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/15-15.htm">Testify</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-12.htm">Testimony</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-15.htm">Themselves</a> <a href="/luke/24-37.htm">Utmost</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-8.htm">Willing</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-5.htm">Witness</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/2_corinthians/8-11.htm">Ability</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-11.htm">Able</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-17.htm">Accord</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-1.htm">Bear</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-13.htm">Free</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-14.htm">Help</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-17.htm">Impulse</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-11.htm">Means</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/9-15.htm">Power</a> <a href="/galatians/4-15.htm">Record</a> <a href="/galatians/4-15.htm">Testify</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-1.htm">Testimony</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-5.htm">Themselves</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-16.htm">Utmost</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-10.htm">Willing</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-31.htm">Witness</a><div class="vheading2">2 Corinthians 8</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/8-1.htm">He stirs them to a generous gift for the poor saints at Jerusalem, by the example of the Macedonians;</a></span><br><span class="reftext">7. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/8-7.htm">by commendation of their former forwardness;</a></span><br><span class="reftext">9. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/8-9.htm">by the example of Christ;</a></span><br><span class="reftext">14. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/8-14.htm">and by the spiritual profit that shall redound to themselves thereby;</a></span><br><span class="reftext">16. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/8-16.htm">commending to them the integrity and willingness of Titus, and those other brothers.</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_corinthians/8.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_corinthians/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/2_corinthians/8.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>For I testify</b><br>Paul is providing a personal witness to the actions of the Macedonian churches. His testimony carries weight as an apostle and leader in the early church. This phrase underscores the importance of credible witness in the Christian community, as seen in other scriptures like <a href="/john/21-24.htm">John 21:24 and 1</a> <a href="/john/1.htm">John 1:1-3</a>, where personal testimony is used to affirm truth.<p><b>that they gave according to their ability</b><br>The Macedonian churches, despite their own poverty, gave generously. This reflects the biblical principle of proportional giving, as seen in the widow's offering in <a href="/mark/12-41.htm">Mark 12:41-44</a>. It highlights the idea that God values the heart and sacrifice behind the gift more than the amount.<p><b>and even beyond it</b><br>Their giving exceeded what was expected or reasonable given their circumstances. This mirrors the sacrificial nature of Christ's own giving, as seen in <a href="/philippians/2-5.htm">Philippians 2:5-8</a>, where Jesus gave up His divine privileges. It also reflects the principle of faith-driven generosity, trusting God to provide.<p><b>Of their own accord</b><br>The Macedonians gave voluntarily, not out of compulsion or obligation. This aligns with the teaching in <a href="/2_corinthians/9-7.htm">2 Corinthians 9:7</a>, which emphasizes that God loves a cheerful giver. It also reflects the work of the Holy Spirit in prompting believers to act in love and generosity, as seen in <a href="/acts/4-32.htm">Acts 4:32-35</a>, where the early church shared everything they had.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/p/paul_the_apostle.htm">Paul the Apostle</a></b><br>The author of 2 Corinthians, writing to the church in Corinth to encourage generosity and highlight the example of the Macedonian churches.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/m/macedonian_churches.htm">Macedonian Churches</a></b><br>The recipients of Paul's praise in this passage, known for their extreme poverty yet abundant generosity.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/c/corinth.htm">Corinth</a></b><br>The city where the church receiving this letter is located, known for its wealth and diversity, yet being encouraged to emulate the Macedonians' generosity.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/t/titus.htm">Titus</a></b><br>A fellow worker with Paul, who was involved in the collection for the Jerusalem church and mentioned in the broader context of <a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/8.htm">2 Corinthians 8</a>.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/j/jerusalem_church.htm">Jerusalem Church</a></b><br>The intended beneficiaries of the collection, experiencing significant need due to famine and persecution.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/g/generosity_beyond_means.htm">Generosity Beyond Means</a></b><br>The Macedonians gave not only according to their ability but beyond it, demonstrating sacrificial giving. This challenges believers to consider how they can give sacrificially, trusting God to provide.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/v/voluntary_giving.htm">Voluntary Giving</a></b><br>The phrase "of their own accord" highlights the importance of willingness in giving. True generosity stems from a heart moved by the Spirit, not compulsion.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/f/faith_in_action.htm">Faith in Action</a></b><br>The Macedonians' actions exemplify faith in action. Despite their poverty, they trusted God to use their contributions for His purposes. Believers today are encouraged to act in faith, knowing God can multiply their efforts.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/e/encouragement_to_others.htm">Encouragement to Others</a></b><br>The example of the Macedonians serves as an encouragement to the Corinthians and to us. Our acts of generosity can inspire others to give and serve.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/g/god's_provision.htm">God's Provision</a></b><br>The Macedonians' ability to give beyond their means is a testament to God's provision. Believers are reminded that God supplies all needs and can enable us to give generously.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_2_corinthians_8.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 2 Corinthians 8</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_is_faith_promise_giving.htm">What is Faith Promise Giving?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_is_''foolishness_of_the_message''.htm">What are the Garima Gospels?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/is_paul's_giving_emphasis_social_pressure.htm">Could Paul’s emphasis on generous giving in 2 Corinthians 8 be seen as an attempt to exert social pressure on the Corinthians, rather than purely as a spiritual directive?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_does_a_loving_god_allow_suffering.htm">How does a loving God allow suffering?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/2_corinthians/8.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(3) <span class= "bld">They were willing of themselves.</span>--Literally, <span class= "ital">spontaneously.</span> This was the point of excellence which he wished to indicate as an example to the Corinthians. Those of Macedonia needed no appeal or counsel such as he had given to the Corinthians and to others.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/2_corinthians/8.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 3.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">They were willing of themselves.</span> "Of their own accord," as in ver. 17. The verb in the original is energetically omitted, with the "they gave" of ver. 5. St. Paul does not mean that the notion of making the collection <span class="accented">originated</span> with them (<a href="/2_corinthians/9-2.htm">2 Corinthians 9:2</a>), but only that they displayed a voluntary energy in carrying it out. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/2_corinthians/8-3.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div><span class="word">For</span><br /><span class="grk">ὅτι</span> <span class="translit">(hoti)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3754.htm">Strong's 3754: </a> </span><span class="str2">Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">I testify [that]</span><br /><span class="grk">μαρτυρῶ</span> <span class="translit">(martyrō)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3140.htm">Strong's 3140: </a> </span><span class="str2">To witness, bear witness, give evidence, testify, give a good report. From martus; to be a witness, i.e. Testify.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">[they gave] according to</span><br /><span class="grk">κατὰ</span> <span class="translit">(kata)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2596.htm">Strong's 2596: </a> </span><span class="str2">A primary particle; down, in varied relations (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined).</span><br /><br /><span class="word">[their] ability</span><br /><span class="grk">δύναμιν</span> <span class="translit">(dynamin)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1411.htm">Strong's 1411: </a> </span><span class="str2">From dunamai; force; specially, miraculous power.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">and even</span><br /><span class="grk">καὶ</span> <span class="translit">(kai)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> </span><span class="str2">And, even, also, namely. </span><br /><br /><span class="word">beyond</span><br /><span class="grk">παρὰ</span> <span class="translit">(para)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3844.htm">Strong's 3844: </a> </span><span class="str2">Gen: from; dat: beside, in the presence of; acc: alongside of. </span><br /><br /><span class="word">[it].</span><br /><span class="grk">δύναμιν</span> <span class="translit">(dynamin)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1411.htm">Strong's 1411: </a> </span><span class="str2">From dunamai; force; specially, miraculous power.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">Of their own accord,</span><br /><span class="grk">αὐθαίρετοι</span> <span class="translit">(authairetoi)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adjective - Nominative Masculine Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_830.htm">Strong's 830: </a> </span><span class="str2">Of one's own accord, self-chosen. From autos and the same as hairetizo; self-chosen, i.e. voluntary.</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_corinthians/8-3.htm">2 Corinthians 8:3 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/8-3.htm">2 Corinthians 8:3 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/2_corinthians/8-3.htm">2 Corinthians 8:3 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/8-3.htm">2 Corinthians 8:3 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/8-3.htm">2 Corinthians 8:3 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/2_corinthians/8-3.htm">2 Corinthians 8:3 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_corinthians/8-3.htm">2 Corinthians 8:3 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_corinthians/8-3.htm">2 Corinthians 8:3 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/2_corinthians/8-3.htm">2 Corinthians 8:3 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/2_corinthians/8-3.htm">2 Corinthians 8:3 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/2_corinthians/8-3.htm">NT Letters: 2 Corinthians 8:3 For according to their power I testify (2 Cor. 2C iiC 2Cor ii cor iicor) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_corinthians/8-2.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Corinthians 8:2"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 8:2" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_corinthians/8-4.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Corinthians 8:4"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 8:4" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>