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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 />they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord&#8217s people.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/8.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />They begged us again and again for the privilege of sharing in the gift for the believers in Jerusalem.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/2_corinthians/8.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />begging us earnestly for the favor of taking part in the relief of the saints—<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/8.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />they earnestly pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/2_corinthians/8.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />imploring of us with much entreaty for the grace and the fellowship of the service among the saints.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/8.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and <i>take upon us</i> the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/2_corinthians/8.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />imploring us with much urgency that we would receive the gift and the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/2_corinthians/8.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />begging us with much urging for the favor of participation in the support of the saints,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/8.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />begging us with much urging for the favor of participation in the support of the saints,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/2_corinthians/8.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />begging us with much entreaty for the favor of participation in the support of the saints,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/2_corinthians/8.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />begging us with much urging for the grace of sharing in the ministry to the saints,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/2_corinthians/8.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />begging us insistently for the privilege of participating in the service for [the support of] the saints [in Jerusalem].<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/2_corinthians/8.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />they begged us earnestly for the privilege of sharing in the ministry to the saints,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/2_corinthians/8.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />they begged us insistently for the privilege of sharing in the ministry to the saints, <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/2_corinthians/8.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />beseeching us with much entreaty in regard of this grace and the fellowship in the ministering to the saints:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/2_corinthians/8.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />They even asked and begged us to let them have the joy of giving their money for God's people. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/2_corinthians/8.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />beseeching us with much entreaty in regard of this grace and the fellowship in the ministering to the saints:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/2_corinthians/8.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />They made an appeal to us, begging us to let them participate in the ministry of God's kindness to his holy people [in Jerusalem].<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/2_corinthians/8.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />they begged us and pleaded for the privilege of having a part in helping God's people in Judea. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/2_corinthians/8.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />They begged us earnestly for the privilege of participating in this ministry to the saints. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/2_corinthians/8.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />they earnestly pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/2_corinthians/8.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />begging us with great earnestness for the blessing and fellowship of helping the saints.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/2_corinthians/8.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />begging us with much entreaty to receive this grace and the fellowship in the service to the saints.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/2_corinthians/8.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />Praying us with much entreaty, that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/2_corinthians/8.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />With earnest entreaty they begged from us the favour of being allowed to share in the service now being rendered to God's people.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/2_corinthians/8.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />begging us with much entreaty to receive this grace and the fellowship in the service to the saints. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/2_corinthians/8.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />with much plea calling on us to receive the favor and the fellowship of the ministry to the holy ones,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/2_corinthians/8.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />imploring of us with much entreaty for the grace and the fellowship of the service among the saints.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/2_corinthians/8.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> with much entreaty calling on us to receive the favour and the fellowship of the ministration to the saints,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/2_corinthians/8.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />Praying us with much entreaty that we receive the grace and participation of the service for saints.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/2_corinthians/8.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />With much entreaty begging of us the grace and communication of the ministry that is done toward the saints. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/2_corinthians/8.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />For they were begging us, with great exhortation, for the grace and the communication of the ministry that is with the saints.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/2_corinthians/8.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />they begged us insistently for the favor of taking part in the service to the holy ones,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/2_corinthians/8.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />begging us earnestly for the privilege of sharing in this ministry to the saints—<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/2_corinthians/8.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />And besought us most earnestly that they might be partakers in the gift for the ministration to the saints.<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 />They begged us with much entreaty that they might share in the grace of the ministry of The Holy Ones,<div class="vheading2"><b>NT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/anderson/2_corinthians/8.htm">Anderson New Testament</a></span><br />beseeching us, with much entreaty, that they might give, and take part in the ministering to the saints;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/godbey/2_corinthians/8.htm">Godbey New Testament</a></span><br />with much exhortation praying our favor and the fellowship of the ministry which is to the saints:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/haweis/2_corinthians/8.htm">Haweis New Testament</a></span><br />with much entreaty praying us that we would receive the gift, and <i>undertake</i> the communication of the contribution for the saints.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/mace/2_corinthians/8.htm">Mace New Testament</a></span><br />earnestly intreating me to take the gift, and the charge of conveying it to the converts at Jerusalem:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/2_corinthians/8.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />With earnest entreaty they begged from us the favour of being allowed to share in the service now being rendered to God's people.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worrell/2_corinthians/8.htm">Worrell New Testament</a></span><br />beseeching us with much entreaty as to the grace and the participation in the ministering to the saints;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worsley/2_corinthians/8.htm">Worsley New Testament</a></span><br />intreating us with much importunity, that we would convey the gift, and <i>so take upon us</i> a part of the ministration to the saints.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/2_corinthians/8-4.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=1333" 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">3</span>For I testify that they gave according to their ability and even beyond it. Of their own accord, <span class="reftext">4</span><span class="highl"><a href="/greek/3326.htm" title="3326: meta (Prep) -- (a) gen: with, in company with, (b) acc: (1) behind, beyond, after, of place, (2) after, of time, with nouns, neut. of adjectives. "></a> <a href="/greek/4183.htm" title="4183: pollēs (Adj-GFS) -- Much, many; often. "></a> <a href="/greek/3874.htm" title="3874: paraklēseōs (N-GFS) -- From parakaleo; imploration, hortation, solace.">they earnestly</a> <a href="/greek/1189.htm" title="1189: deomenoi (V-PPM/P-NMP) -- To want for myself; I want, need; I beg, request, beseech, pray. Middle voice of deo; to beg, i.e. Petition.">pleaded</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: hēmōn (PPro-G1P) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">with us</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēn (Art-AFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">for the</a> <a href="/greek/5485.htm" title="5485: charin (N-AFS) -- From chairo; graciousness, of manner or act.">privilege</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. "></a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēn (Art-AFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/2842.htm" title="2842: koinōnian (N-AFS) -- From koinonos; partnership, i.e. participation, or intercourse, or benefaction.">of sharing</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēs (Art-GFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">in this</a> <a href="/greek/1248.htm" title="1248: diakonias (N-GFS) -- Waiting at table; in a wider sense: service, ministration. From diakonos; attendance; figuratively aid, service.">service</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēs (Art-GFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/1519.htm" title="1519: eis (Prep) -- A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.">to</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tous (Art-AMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/40.htm" title="40: hagious (Adj-AMP) -- Set apart by (or for) God, holy, sacred. From hagos; sacred.">saints.</a> </span> <span class="reftext">5</span>And not only did they do as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us, because it was the will of God.…<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 11:29-30</a></span><br />So the disciples, each according to his ability, decided to send relief to the brothers living in Judea. / This they did, sending their gifts to the elders with Barnabas and Saul.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/15-25.htm">Romans 15:25-27</a></span><br />Now, however, I am on my way to Jerusalem to serve the saints there. / For Macedonia and Achaia were pleased to make a contribution for the poor among the saints in Jerusalem. / They were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For if the Gentiles have shared in their spiritual blessings, they are obligated to minister to them with material blessings.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/galatians/2-10.htm">Galatians 2:10</a></span><br />They only asked us to remember the poor, the very thing I was eager to do.<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_corinthians/16-1.htm">1 Corinthians 16:1-3</a></span><br />Now about the collection for the saints, you are to do as I directed the churches of Galatia: / On the first day of every week, each of you should set aside a portion of his income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will be needed. / Then, on my arrival, I will send letters with those you recommend to carry your gift to Jerusalem.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/acts/20-35.htm">Acts 20:35</a></span><br />In everything, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus Himself: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”<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="/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="/james/2-15.htm">James 2:15-16</a></span><br />Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. / If one of you tells him, “Go in peace; stay warm and well fed,” but does not provide for his physical needs, what good is that?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/matthew/25-35.htm">Matthew 25:35-40</a></span><br />For I was hungry and you gave Me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave Me something to drink, I was a stranger and you took Me in, / I was naked and you clothed Me, I was sick and you looked after Me, I was in prison and you visited Me.’ / Then the righteous will answer Him, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You something to drink? ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/luke/6-38.htm">Luke 6:38</a></span><br />Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/proverbs/19-17.htm">Proverbs 19:17</a></span><br />Kindness to the poor is a loan to the LORD, and He will repay the lender.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/58-7.htm">Isaiah 58:7</a></span><br />Isn’t it to share your bread with the hungry, to bring the poor and homeless into your home, to clothe the naked when you see him, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/deuteronomy/15-7.htm">Deuteronomy 15:7-11</a></span><br />If there is a poor man among your brothers within any of the gates in the land that the LORD your God is giving you, then you are not to harden your heart or shut your hand from your poor brother. / Instead, you are to open your hand to him and freely loan him whatever he needs. / Be careful not to harbor this wicked thought in your heart: “The seventh year, the year of release, is near,” so that you look upon your poor brother begrudgingly and give him nothing. He will cry out to the LORD against you, and you will be guilty of sin. ...</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">Praying us with much entreaty that we would receive the gift, and take on us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.</p><p class="hdg">that.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_corinthians/8-18.htm">2 Corinthians 8:18,19</a></b></br> And we have sent with him the brother, whose praise <i>is</i> in the gospel throughout all the churches; … </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/genesis/33-10.htm">Genesis 33:10,11</a></b></br> And Jacob said, Nay, I pray thee, if now I have found grace in thy sight, then receive my present at my hand: for therefore I have seen thy face, as though I had seen the face of God, and thou wast pleased with me… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_kings/5-15.htm">2 Kings 5:15,16</a></b></br> And he returned to the man of God, he and all his company, and came, and stood before him: and he said, Behold, now I know that <i>there is</i> no God in all the earth, but in Israel: now therefore, I pray thee, take a blessing of thy servant… </p><p class="hdg">the ministering.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_corinthians/9-1.htm">2 Corinthians 9:1,12-14</a></b></br> For as touching the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you: … </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/matthew/10-42.htm">Matthew 10:42</a></b></br> And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold <i>water</i> only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/matthew/12-50.htm">Matthew 12:50</a></b></br> For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/1_corinthians/14-34.htm">Allowed</a> <a href="/acts/28-14.htm">Begged</a> <a href="/acts/25-15.htm">Begging</a> <a href="/romans/1-10.htm">Beseeching</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-12.htm">Earnest</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-2.htm">Earnestly</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-20.htm">Entreaty</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-2.htm">Favor</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-12.htm">Favour</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-15.htm">Fellowship</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-11.htm">Gift</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-1.htm">God's</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-1.htm">Grace</a> <a href="/romans/15-25.htm">Ministering</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/15-53.htm">Needs</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-2.htm">Part</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-15.htm">Participation</a> <a href="/romans/11-2.htm">Pleaded</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/11-5.htm">Praying</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/8-9.htm">Privilege</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-9.htm">Receive</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-16.htm">Regard</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-5.htm">Relief</a> <a href="/romans/11-35.htm">Rendered</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-12.htm">Requesting</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-1.htm">Saints</a> <a href="/acts/19-31.htm">Seriously</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-4.htm">Servants</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-3.htm">Service</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/2-3.htm">Share</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-16.htm">Sharing</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-24.htm">Support</a> <a href="/acts/25-3.htm">Urgently</a> <a href="/acts/27-33.htm">Urging</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/2_corinthians/12-4.htm">Allowed</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-6.htm">Begged</a> <a href="/job/41-3.htm">Begging</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-10.htm">Beseeching</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-12.htm">Earnest</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-1.htm">Earnestly</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-17.htm">Entreaty</a> <a href="/galatians/1-10.htm">Favor</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-6.htm">Favour</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-14.htm">Fellowship</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-12.htm">Gift</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-5.htm">God's</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-6.htm">Grace</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/9-1.htm">Ministering</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-9.htm">Needs</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-6.htm">Part</a> <a href="/philippians/1-5.htm">Participation</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-8.htm">Pleaded</a> <a href="/ephesians/6-18.htm">Praying</a> <a href="/philippians/1-29.htm">Privilege</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-4.htm">Receive</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-21.htm">Regard</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-13.htm">Relief</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/9-1.htm">Rendered</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-10.htm">Requesting</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/9-1.htm">Saints</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/3-15.htm">Seriously</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-15.htm">Servants</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-23.htm">Service</a> <a href="/galatians/4-30.htm">Share</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-19.htm">Sharing</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-8.htm">Support</a> <a href="/numbers/22-37.htm">Urgently</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-12.htm">Urging</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>they earnestly pleaded with us</b><br>The Macedonian churches, including Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea, were known for their deep poverty yet abundant generosity. Despite their own financial struggles, they were eager to participate in the collection for the Jerusalem church. This reflects the early Christian principle of sacrificial giving, as seen in <a href="/acts/2-44.htm">Acts 2:44-45</a>, where believers shared everything they had. The Macedonians' earnest plea demonstrates their commitment to the unity and support of the broader Christian community, echoing the spirit of Jesus' teaching in <a href="/matthew/6-21.htm">Matthew 6:21</a> about where one's treasure is, there the heart will be also.<p><b>for the privilege of sharing</b><br>The word "privilege" here is translated from the Greek word "charis," often rendered as "grace." This indicates that the Macedonians viewed giving not as an obligation but as a grace-filled opportunity to participate in God's work. This aligns with the biblical theme of grace, where believers are called to extend the grace they have received from God to others, as seen in <a href="/ephesians/2-8.htm">Ephesians 2:8-10</a>. The concept of sharing, or "koinonia," emphasizes fellowship and partnership, reflecting the communal nature of the early church described in <a href="/acts/4-32.htm">Acts 4:32-35</a>.<p><b>in this service</b><br>The term "service" is translated from the Greek "diakonia," which can also mean ministry. This suggests that the act of giving was seen as a form of ministry, a way to serve God and others. This aligns with the New Testament teaching that all believers are called to serve, as seen in <a href="/1_peter/4-10.htm">1 Peter 4:10-11</a>, where each person is encouraged to use their gifts to serve others. The collection for the Jerusalem church was not just financial support but a spiritual ministry that strengthened the bonds between Jewish and Gentile believers.<p><b>to the saints</b><br>"Saints" refers to the believers in Jerusalem who were experiencing severe hardship, possibly due to famine or persecution. The use of "saints" underscores the holiness and set-apart nature of the Christian community, as seen in <a href="/1_corinthians/1-2.htm">1 Corinthians 1:2</a>. The collection was a tangible expression of the unity and love within the body of Christ, fulfilling the command to love one another as Christ loved us (<a href="/john/13-34.htm">John 13:34-35</a>). This act of support also served as a witness to the world of the transformative power of the gospel, as the early church lived out the teachings of Jesus in practical ways.<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, who is writing to the church in Corinth about the generosity of the Macedonian churches.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/m/macedonian_churches.htm">Macedonian Churches</a></b><br>The churches in the region of Macedonia, known for their poverty yet remarkable generosity.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/c/corinthian_church.htm">Corinthian Church</a></b><br>The recipients of the letter, encouraged by Paul to follow the example of the Macedonians in giving.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/s/saints_in_jerusalem.htm">Saints in Jerusalem</a></b><br>The recipients of the collection, who were experiencing poverty and persecution.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/c/collection_for_the_saints.htm">Collection for the Saints</a></b><br>A financial offering being gathered by Paul and his companions to support the impoverished believers in Jerusalem.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_heart_of_generosity.htm">The Heart of Generosity</a></b><br>True generosity stems from a heart transformed by the grace of God, not from abundance or compulsion.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_privilege_of_giving.htm">The Privilege of Giving</a></b><br>Giving is not merely an obligation but a privilege and an act of worship, reflecting God's own generosity towards us.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/u/unity_in_the_body_of_christ.htm">Unity in the Body of Christ</a></b><br>The act of giving to the saints in Jerusalem demonstrates the interconnectedness and unity of the global church.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/j/joy_in_sacrificial_giving.htm">Joy in Sacrificial Giving</a></b><br>The Macedonians found joy in giving despite their poverty, teaching us that joy is found in selfless acts of love.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/e/encouragement_to_others.htm">Encouragement to Others</a></b><br>Our acts of generosity can inspire and encourage others to also participate in the grace of giving.<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_exceeding_scribes'_righteousness.htm">How can we judge angels if they judge us?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_are_the_nomina_sacra.htm">How can you purify your hearts, double-minded ones?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/do_col._4_7-18_greetings_suggest_co-authors.htm">How do the final greetings in Colossians 4:7-18 compare with other Pauline letters, and could inconsistencies suggest multiple authors?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_does_the_bible_say_on_secret_societies.htm">What does the Bible say about Christian secret societies?</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>(4) <span class= "bld">Praying us with much intreaty . . .</span>--The words "that we would receive" are not in the Greek, which literally runs: <span class= "ital">asking of us the grace</span> (or <span class= "ital">favour</span>)<span class= "ital"> and fellowship in the ministry of the saints, i.e.,</span> asking to be allowed to share in it.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/2_corinthians/8.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 4.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">Praying us.</span> The entreaties came from them, not from me. <span class="cmt_word">That we would receive.</span> These words are almost certainly an explanatory gloss. The translation then is, "begging us for the grace of participation in this ministration to the saints." They were so willing in the matter that they entreated me, as a favour (<span class="greek">χάρις</span>), to allow them to have a share in this contribution, because it was to be given to the saints, that is, the suffering peer in the Church of Jerusalem. This Church suffered from chronic poverty. Even the Jewish population were liable to famines, in one of which they had only been kept alive by the royal munificence of a proselyte, Queen Helena,of Adiabene. The Christians would, of course, suffer even more deeply, because they were drawn from the humblest classes and had fewer friends. This was one of the reasons why, as an act of common humanity, it was incumbent on the Gentile Christians to help them (<a href="/acts/11-29.htm">Acts 11:29</a>; <a href="/romans/15-25.htm">Romans 15:25, 26</a>). St. Paul had already brought the subject to the notice of the Corinthians (<a href="/1_corinthians/16-1.htm">1 Corinthians 16:1-4</a>). <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/2_corinthians/8-4.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">they pleaded</span><br /><span class="grk">δεόμενοι</span> <span class="translit">(deomenoi)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Participle Middle or Passive - Nominative Masculine Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1189.htm">Strong's 1189: </a> </span><span class="str2">To want for myself; I want, need; I beg, request, beseech, pray. Middle voice of deo; to beg, i.e. Petition.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">earnestly</span><br /><span class="grk">παρακλήσεως</span> <span class="translit">(paraklēseōs)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3874.htm">Strong's 3874: </a> </span><span class="str2">From parakaleo; imploration, hortation, solace.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">for the</span><br /><span class="grk">τὴν</span> <span class="translit">(tēn)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article - Accusative Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> </span><span class="str2">The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">privilege</span><br /><span class="grk">χάριν</span> <span class="translit">(charin)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_5485.htm">Strong's 5485: </a> </span><span class="str2">From chairo; graciousness, of manner or act.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">of sharing</span><br /><span class="grk">κοινωνίαν</span> <span class="translit">(koinōnian)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2842.htm">Strong's 2842: </a> </span><span class="str2">From koinonos; partnership, i.e. participation, or intercourse, or benefaction.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">in [this]</span><br /><span class="grk">τῆς</span> <span class="translit">(tēs)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article - Genitive Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> </span><span class="str2">The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">service</span><br /><span class="grk">διακονίας</span> <span class="translit">(diakonias)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1248.htm">Strong's 1248: </a> </span><span class="str2">Waiting at table; in a wider sense: service, ministration. From diakonos; attendance; figuratively aid, service.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">to</span><br /><span class="grk">εἰς</span> <span class="translit">(eis)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1519.htm">Strong's 1519: </a> </span><span class="str2">A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">the</span><br /><span class="grk">τοὺς</span> <span class="translit">(tous)</span><br /><span class="parse">Article - Accusative Masculine Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> </span><span class="str2">The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">saints.</span><br /><span class="grk">ἁγίους</span> <span class="translit">(hagious)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adjective - Accusative Masculine Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_40.htm">Strong's 40: </a> </span><span class="str2">Set apart by (or for) God, holy, sacred. From hagos; sacred.</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_corinthians/8-4.htm">2 Corinthians 8:4 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/8-4.htm">2 Corinthians 8:4 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/2_corinthians/8-4.htm">2 Corinthians 8:4 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/8-4.htm">2 Corinthians 8:4 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/8-4.htm">2 Corinthians 8:4 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/2_corinthians/8-4.htm">2 Corinthians 8:4 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_corinthians/8-4.htm">2 Corinthians 8:4 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_corinthians/8-4.htm">2 Corinthians 8:4 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/2_corinthians/8-4.htm">2 Corinthians 8:4 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/2_corinthians/8-4.htm">2 Corinthians 8:4 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/2_corinthians/8-4.htm">NT Letters: 2 Corinthians 8:4 Begging us with much entreaty to receive (2 Cor. 2C iiC 2Cor ii cor iicor) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_corinthians/8-3.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Corinthians 8:3"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 8:3" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_corinthians/8-5.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Corinthians 8:5"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 8:5" /></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>