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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 8:2 In the terrible ordeal they suffered, their abundant joy and deep poverty overflowed into rich generosity.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/2_corinthians/8-2.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/10/47_2Co_08_02.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="2 Corinthians 8:2 - Generosity Commended" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="In the terrible ordeal they suffered, their abundant joy and deep poverty overflowed into rich generosity." /><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><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/8-2.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/8-2.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 2</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="/ad2.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/8-1.htm" title="2 Corinthians 8:1">◄</a> 2 Corinthians 8:2 <a href="/2_corinthians/8-3.htm" title="2 Corinthians 8:3">►</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">Verse<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"><a href="/niv/2_corinthians/8.htm">New International Version</a> In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. <a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/8.htm">New Living Translation</a> They are being tested by many troubles, and they are very poor. But they are also filled with abundant joy, which has overflowed in rich generosity. <a href="/esv/2_corinthians/8.htm">English Standard Version</a> for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part. <a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/8.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> In the terrible ordeal they suffered, their abundant joy and deep poverty overflowed into rich generosity. <a href="/blb/2_corinthians/8.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> that in much proof of tribulation, the abundance of their joy and of their deep poverty abounded into the riches of their generosity. <a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/8.htm">King James Bible</a> How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. <a href="/nkjv/2_corinthians/8.htm">New King James Version</a> that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded in the riches of their liberality. <a href="/nasb_/2_corinthians/8.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> that in a great ordeal of affliction their abundance of joy and their deep poverty overflowed in the wealth of their liberality. <a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/8.htm">NASB 1995</a> that in a great ordeal of affliction their abundance of joy and their deep poverty overflowed in the wealth of their liberality. <a href="/nasb77/2_corinthians/8.htm">NASB 1977 </a> that in a great ordeal of affliction their abundance of joy and their deep poverty overflowed in the wealth of their liberality. <a href="/lsb/2_corinthians/8.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> that in a great testing by affliction their abundance of joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the richness of their generosity. <a href="/amp/2_corinthians/8.htm">Amplified Bible</a> for during an ordeal of severe distress, their abundant joy and their deep poverty [together] overflowed in the wealth of their lavish generosity. <a href="/csb/2_corinthians/8.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> During a severe trial brought about by affliction, their abundant joy and their extreme poverty overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part. <a href="/hcsb/2_corinthians/8.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> During a severe testing by affliction, their abundance of joy and their deep poverty overflowed into the wealth of their generosity. <a href="/asv/2_corinthians/8.htm">American Standard Version</a> how that in much proof of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. <a href="/cev/2_corinthians/8.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Although they were going through hard times and were very poor, they were glad to give generously. <a href="/erv/2_corinthians/8.htm">English Revised Version</a> how that in much proof of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. <a href="/gwt/2_corinthians/8.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> While they were being severely tested by suffering, their overflowing joy, along with their extreme poverty, has made them even more generous. <a href="/gnt/2_corinthians/8.htm">Good News Translation</a> They have been severely tested by the troubles they went through; but their joy was so great that they were extremely generous in their giving, even though they are very poor. <a href="/isv/2_corinthians/8.htm">International Standard Version</a> In spite of their terrible ordeal of suffering, their abundant joy and deep poverty have led them to be abundantly generous. <a href="/msb/2_corinthians/8.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> In the terrible ordeal they suffered, their abundant joy and deep poverty overflowed into rich generosity. <a href="/net/2_corinthians/8.htm">NET Bible</a> that during a severe ordeal of suffering, their abundant joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in the wealth of their generosity. <a href="/nheb/2_corinthians/8.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> how that in much proof of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded to the riches of their liberality. <a href="/wbt/2_corinthians/8.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> That in a great trial of affliction, the abundance of their joy, and their deep poverty, abounded to the riches of their liberality. <a href="/wey/2_corinthians/8.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> how, while passing through great trouble, their boundless joy even amid their deep poverty has overflowed to increase their generous liberality. <a href="/web/2_corinthians/8.htm">World English Bible</a> how in a severe ordeal of affliction, the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded to the riches of their generosity. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/2_corinthians/8.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> because in much trial of tribulation the abundance of their joy, and their deep poverty, abounded to the riches of their liberality; <a href="/blb/2_corinthians/8.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> that in much proof of tribulation, the abundance of their joy and of their deep poverty abounded into the riches of their generosity. <a href="/ylt/2_corinthians/8.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> because in much trial of tribulation the abundance of their joy, and their deep poverty, did abound to the riches of their liberality; <a href="/slt/2_corinthians/8.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> That in much proof of pressure the abundance of their joy and their poverty according to depth abounded to the abundance of their simplicity.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/2_corinthians/8.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> That in much experience of tribulation, they have had abundance of joy; and their very deep poverty hath abounded unto the riches of their simplicity. <a href="/cpdv/2_corinthians/8.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> For within a great experience of tribulation, they have had an abundance of joy, and their profound poverty has only increased the richness of their simplicity. <a href="/nabre/2_corinthians/8.htm">New American Bible</a> for in a severe test of affliction, the abundance of their joy and their profound poverty overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part. <a href="/nrsvce/2_corinthians/8.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> for during a severe ordeal of affliction, their abundant joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/2_corinthians/8.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> How that in a great trial of affliction, the abundance of their joy and their deep rooted poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/2_corinthians/8.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> For in the many trials of their afflictions there was an abundance to their joy, and the depth of their poverty was made to superabound in the wealth of their generosity.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/2_corinthians/8.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> that under an afflicting trial, their overflowing joy, and their deep poverty, abounded to the riches of their liberality; <a href="/godbey/2_corinthians/8.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> because in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. <a href="/haweis/2_corinthians/8.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy, and their deep poverty, hath more abounded to the riches of their liberality. <a href="/mace/2_corinthians/8.htm">Mace New Testament</a> who tho' labouring under great trial of affliction, and extreme poverty, have notwithstanding with exceeding cheerfulness contributed very liberally: being forward of themselves to the utmost of their power, <a href="/wey/2_corinthians/8.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> how, while passing through great trouble, their boundless joy even amid their deep poverty has overflowed to increase their generous liberality. <a href="/worrell/2_corinthians/8.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> that, in much trial of tribulation, the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded to the riches of their liberality. <a href="/worsley/2_corinthians/8.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> how in a great trial of affliction, their abundant chearfulness and their deep poverty, hath munificently shewn the riches of their bounty. <a href="/parallel/2_corinthians/8-2.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ddheG4hMg28?start=1316" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/8.htm">Generosity Commended</a> 1Now, brothers, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the churches of Macedonia. 2<a href="/greek/3754.htm" title="3754: hoti (Conj) -- Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because."></a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">In</a> <a href="/greek/4183.htm" title="4183: pollē (Adj-DFS) -- Much, many; often. ">the terrible</a> <a href="/greek/1382.htm" title="1382: dokimē (N-DFS) -- A trial, proof; tried, approved character. From the same as dokimos; test; by implication, trustiness.">ordeal</a> <a href="/greek/2347.htm" title="2347: thlipseōs (N-GFS) -- Persecution, affliction, distress, tribulation. From thlibo; pressure.">they suffered,</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: hē (Art-NFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></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/846.htm" title="846: autōn (PPro-GM3P) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.">their</a> <a href="/greek/4050.htm" title="4050: perisseia (N-NFS) -- Abundance, superfluity. From perisseuo; surplusage, i.e. Superabundance.">abundant</a> <a href="/greek/5479.htm" title="5479: charas (N-GFS) -- Joy, gladness, a source of joy. From chairo; cheerfulness, i.e. Calm delight.">joy</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: hē (Art-NFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/899.htm" title="899: bathous (N-GNS) -- From the same as bathus; profundity, i.e. extent; mystery.">deep</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)."></a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: autōn (PPro-GM3P) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons."></a> <a href="/greek/4432.htm" title="4432: ptōcheia (N-NFS) -- Poverty, destitution. From ptocheuo; beggary, i.e. Indigence.">poverty</a> <a href="/greek/4052.htm" title="4052: eperisseusen (V-AIA-3S) -- From perissos; to superabound, be in excess, be superfluous; also to cause to superabound or excel.">overflowed</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.">into</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: to (Art-ANS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/4149.htm" title="4149: ploutos (N-ANS) -- From the base of pletho; wealth, i.e. money, possessions, or abundance, richness, valuable bestowment.">rich</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/572.htm" title="572: haplotētos (N-GFS) -- Simplicity, sincerity, purity, graciousness. From haplous; singleness, i.e. sincerity, or generosity.">generosity.</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: autōn (PPro-GM3P) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons."></a> 3For I testify that they gave according to their ability and even beyond it. Of their own accord,…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/acts/11-29.htm">Acts 11:29</a> So the disciples, each according to his ability, decided to send relief to the brothers living in Judea. <a href="/romans/15-26.htm">Romans 15:26</a> For Macedonia and Achaia were pleased to make a contribution for the poor among the saints in Jerusalem. <a href="/philippians/1-29.htm">Philippians 1:29</a> For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for Him, <a href="/james/1-2.htm">James 1:2-3</a> Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, / because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. <a href="/1_thessalonians/1-6.htm">1 Thessalonians 1:6</a> And you became imitators of us and of the Lord when you welcomed the message with the joy of the Holy Spirit, in spite of your great suffering. <a href="/1_peter/1-6.htm">1 Peter 1:6-7</a> In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in various trials / so that the proven character of your faith—more precious than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. <a href="/hebrews/10-34.htm">Hebrews 10:34</a> You sympathized with those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property, knowing that you yourselves had a better and permanent possession. <a href="/romans/5-3.htm">Romans 5:3-5</a> Not only that, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; / perseverance, character; and character, hope. / And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His love into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us. <a href="/1_peter/4-13.htm">1 Peter 4:13</a> But rejoice that you share in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed at the revelation of His glory. <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-3.htm">1 Thessalonians 3:3-4</a> so that none of you would be shaken by these trials. For you know that we are destined for this. / Indeed, when we were with you, we kept warning you that we would suffer persecution; and as you know, it has come to pass. <a href="/philippians/4-10.htm">Philippians 4:10-19</a> Now I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. / I am not saying this out of need, for I have learned to be content regardless of my circumstances. / I know how to live humbly, and I know how to abound. In any and every situation I have learned the secret of being filled and being hungry, of having plenty and having need. ... <a href="/1_john/3-17.htm">1 John 3:17</a> 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? <a href="/galatians/2-10.htm">Galatians 2:10</a> They only asked us to remember the poor, the very thing I was eager to do. <a href="/luke/21-1.htm">Luke 21:1-4</a> 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. ... <a href="/matthew/5-11.htm">Matthew 5:11-12</a> Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. / Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets before you.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded to the riches of their liberality.in.<a href="/1_thessalonians/1-6.htm">1 Thessalonians 1:6</a> And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost:<a href="/1_thessalonians/2-14.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:14</a> For ye, brethren, became followers of the churches of God which in Judaea are in Christ Jesus: for ye also have suffered like things of your own countrymen, even as they have of the Jews:<a href="/1_thessalonians/3-3.htm">1 Thessalonians 3:3,4</a> That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto… the abundance.<a href="/nehemiah/8-10.htm">Nehemiah 8:10-12</a> Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength… <a href="/acts/2-45.htm">Acts 2:45,46</a> And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need… their deep.<a href="/mark/12-42.htm">Mark 12:42-44</a> And there came a certain poor widow, and she threw in two mites, which make a farthing… <a href="/luke/21-1.htm">Luke 21:1-4</a> And he looked up, and saw the rich men casting their gifts into the treasury… <a href="/james/2-5.htm">James 2:5</a> Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?the riches.<a href="/2_corinthians/6-10.htm">2 Corinthians 6:10</a> As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.<a href="/2_corinthians/9-11.htm">2 Corinthians 9:11,13</a> Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God… <a href="/deuteronomy/15-4.htm">Deuteronomy 15:4</a> Save when there shall be no poor among you; for the LORD shall greatly bless thee in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee for an inheritance to possess it:liberality.<a href="/2_corinthians/1-12.htm">2 Corinthians 1:12</a> For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward.<a href="/romans/12-8.htm">Romans 12:8</a> Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/romans/5-20.htm">Abounded</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-5.htm">Abundance</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-4.htm">Affliction</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-4.htm">Amid</a> <a href="/nahum/3-9.htm">Boundless</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-7.htm">Deep</a> <a href="/mark/7-37.htm">Extreme</a> <a href="/romans/5-15.htm">Generosity</a> <a href="/acts/27-3.htm">Generous</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-16.htm">Great</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-15.htm">Greater</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/13-13.htm">Greatest</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/3-7.htm">Increase</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-16.htm">Joy</a> <a href="/romans/12-8.htm">Liberality</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-4.htm">Need</a> <a href="/1_peter/4-12.htm">Ordeal</a> <a href="/romans/5-20.htm">Overflowed</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-4.htm">Overflowing</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-15.htm">Part</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-13.htm">Passing</a> <a href="/luke/21-4.htm">Poverty</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/2-9.htm">Proof</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-10.htm">Rich</a> <a href="/romans/11-33.htm">Riches</a> <a href="/acts/11-28.htm">Severe</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/2-9.htm">Test</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-9.htm">Trial</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-3.htm">Trouble</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-9.htm">Undergoing</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-10.htm">Wealth</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/ephesians/1-8.htm">Abounded</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-14.htm">Abundance</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-13.htm">Affliction</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-26.htm">Amid</a> <a href="/psalms/119-96.htm">Boundless</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-16.htm">Deep</a> <a href="/numbers/22-36.htm">Extreme</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/9-5.htm">Generosity</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-19.htm">Generous</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-22.htm">Great</a> <a href="/philippians/1-12.htm">Greater</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-5.htm">Greatest</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/9-10.htm">Increase</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-9.htm">Joy</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/9-11.htm">Liberality</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-9.htm">Need</a> <a href="/1_peter/4-12.htm">Ordeal</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-14.htm">Overflowed</a> <a href="/philippians/4-17.htm">Overflowing</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-4.htm">Part</a> <a href="/titus/3-3.htm">Passing</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-9.htm">Poverty</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-22.htm">Proof</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-7.htm">Rich</a> <a href="/ephesians/1-7.htm">Riches</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-10.htm">Severe</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-8.htm">Test</a> <a href="/galatians/4-14.htm">Trial</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-9.htm">Trouble</a> <a href="/galatians/4-19.htm">Undergoing</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-9.htm">Wealth</a><div class="vheading2">2 Corinthians 8</div>1. <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> 7. <a href="/2_corinthians/8-7.htm">by commendation of their former forwardness;</a> 9. <a href="/2_corinthians/8-9.htm">by the example of Christ;</a> 14. <a href="/2_corinthians/8-14.htm">and by the spiritual profit that shall redound to themselves thereby;</a> 16. <a href="/2_corinthians/8-16.htm">commending to them the integrity and willingness of Titus, and those other brothers.</a> </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>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <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> </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>In the terrible ordeal they suffered This phrase refers to the severe trials faced by the Macedonian churches, likely including persecution and economic hardship. Historically, Macedonia was a region that experienced significant political and social upheaval, which often led to financial instability. The early Christian communities in this area were not immune to these challenges. The phrase highlights the resilience and faith of the Macedonian believers, who, despite their circumstances, remained steadfast in their commitment to Christ. This echoes the trials faced by the early church as described in <a href="/acts/16-22.htm">Acts 16:22-24</a>, where Paul and Silas were imprisoned in Philippi, a city in Macedonia.Their abundant joy Despite their trials, the Macedonian believers experienced profound joy. This joy is a fruit of the Spirit (<a href="/galatians/5-22.htm">Galatians 5:22</a>) and is often seen in the New Testament as a hallmark of true Christian faith, transcending external circumstances. The joy of the Macedonians serves as a testament to their deep relationship with Christ, who is the source of true joy (<a href="/john/15-11.htm">John 15:11</a>). This joy is not dependent on material wealth or comfort but is rooted in the hope and assurance of salvation.And deep poverty The Macedonians were experiencing extreme poverty, yet their financial lack did not hinder their spiritual richness. This phrase underscores the paradox of Christian living, where material poverty can coexist with spiritual abundance. The Macedonian churches exemplified the teachings of Jesus, who often spoke of the blessedness of the poor in spirit (<a href="/matthew/5-3.htm">Matthew 5:3</a>). Their situation also reflects the early church's communal lifestyle, where believers shared their resources to support one another (<a href="/acts/2-44.htm">Acts 2:44-45</a>).Overflowed into rich generosity Despite their poverty, the Macedonians gave generously to support the Jerusalem church, which was experiencing its own hardships. This act of giving is a powerful demonstration of the grace of God working in their lives. Their generosity is reminiscent of the widow's offering in <a href="/mark/12-41.htm">Mark 12:41-44</a>, where Jesus commends the widow for giving out of her poverty. The Macedonians' actions fulfill the principle found in <a href="/proverbs/11-25.htm">Proverbs 11:25</a>, which states that a generous person will prosper. Their giving is a type of Christ's own sacrificial giving, as they gave not out of abundance but out of love and commitment to the body of Christ.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/t/the_macedonian_churches.htm">The Macedonian Churches</a> These were the churches in the region of Macedonia, including Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea. They were known for their faith and generosity despite facing severe trials and poverty. 2. <a href="/topical/a/apostle_paul.htm">Apostle Paul</a> The author of 2 Corinthians, Paul is writing to the church in Corinth to encourage them in their giving by using the example of the Macedonian churches. 3. <a href="/topical/t/the_collection_for_the_saints.htm">The Collection for the Saints</a> This was a fundraising effort initiated by Paul to support the impoverished believers in Jerusalem.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/j/joy_in_trials.htm">Joy in Trials</a> The Macedonian churches exemplified how joy can coexist with trials. Their joy was not dependent on circumstances but rooted in their faith in Christ. <a href="/topical/g/generosity_in_poverty.htm">Generosity in Poverty</a> True generosity is not measured by the amount given but by the heart and sacrifice behind it. The Macedonians gave beyond their means, demonstrating that even in poverty, one can be rich in generosity. <a href="/topical/t/the_grace_of_giving.htm">The Grace of Giving</a> Giving is a grace that God bestows upon believers. It is an act of worship and a reflection of God's own generosity towards us. <a href="/topical/e/encouragement_to_others.htm">Encouragement to Others</a> The example of the Macedonian churches serves as an encouragement to other believers to give generously, regardless of their circumstances. <a href="/topical/f/faith_and_action.htm">Faith and Action</a> Faith in Christ should lead to tangible actions, such as supporting fellow believers in need. Our faith is demonstrated through our deeds.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_2_corinthians_8.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 2 Corinthians 8</a> <a href="/q/why_do_faithful_givers_stay_poor.htm">Proverbs 3:9 commands honoring God with wealth—why do many faithful givers remain poor while the corrupt often thrive? </a> <a href="/q/why_are_faithful_people_sometimes_poor.htm">Proverbs 10:22 promises that the Lord’s blessing brings wealth—how do we explain faithful yet impoverished individuals? </a> <a href="/q/how_trust_paul's_claim_on_macedonian_giving.htm">In 2 Corinthians 8:1–2, how can we trust Paul’s claim that the impoverished Macedonians gave beyond their means if there’s no external historical data corroborating their extreme poverty? </a> <a href="/q/why_no_historical_record_of_paul's_ordeal.htm">In 2 Corinthians 1:8-9, Paul mentions a severe ordeal in Asia--why is there no clear historical or archaeological record to confirm this event outside the Bible?</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>(2) In a great trial of affliction.--We do not know what is specially referred to, but a community of Christians in a heathen city was always exposed to trials of this kind, and the temper shown before by the rulers at Philippi and the Jews of Thessalonica (<a href="/context/acts/16-19.htm" title="And when her masters saw that the hope of their gains was gone, they caught Paul and Silas, and drew them into the marketplace to the rulers,">Acts 16:19-20</a>; <a href="/context/acts/17-5.htm" title="But the Jews which believed not, moved with envy, took to them certain lewd fellows of the baser sort, and gathered a company, and set all the city on an uproar, and assaulted the house of Jason, and sought to bring them out to the people.">Acts 17:5-6</a>; <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-14.htm" title="For you, brothers, became followers of the churches of God which in Judaea are in Christ Jesus: for you also have suffered like things of your own countrymen, even as they have of the Jews:">1Thessalonians 2:14</a>) makes it almost certain that they would carry on at least a petty persecution with more or less persistency. The "poverty" at Philippi may possibly be connected with the preponderance of women in the Church there, as indicated in <a href="/acts/16-13.htm" title="And on the sabbath we went out of the city by a river side, where prayer was wont to be made; and we sat down, and spoke to the women which resorted thither.">Acts 16:13</a>. In the absence of the bread-winners of a household, Christian women in a Graeco-Roman city would find but scanty means of subsistence. In part, however, the churches were but sharers in a widely-spread distress. Macedonia and Achaia never recovered from the three wars between Caesar and Pompeius, between the Triumvirs and Brutus and Cassius, and between Augustus and Antonius. Under Tiberius, they petitioned for a diminution of their burdens, and were accordingly transferred for a time from the jurisdiction of the senate to that of the emperor, as involving a less heavy taxation.Unto the riches of their liberality.--The primary meaning of the word, as in <a href="/2_corinthians/1-12.htm" title="For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward.">2Corinthians 1:12</a> (where see Note), is simplicity, or singleness of purpose. That singleness, when shown in gifts, leads to "liberality," and so the word had acquired the secondary sense in which it seems here to be used. Tyndale, and Cranmer, however, give "singleness," and the Rhemish version "simplicity." "Liberality" first appears in that of Geneva. . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/2_corinthians/8.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 2. - In a great trial of affliction; rather, in much testing of affliction; i.e. in an affliction which put to the proof their Christian character. "They were not simply afflicted," says St. Chrysostom, "but in such a way as also to become approved by their endurance." (For the word rendered "trial," see <a href="/romans/5-4.htm">Romans 5:4</a>, and in this Epistle, <a href="/2_corinthians/2-9.htm">2 Corinthians 2:9</a>; <a href="/2_corinthians/9-13.htm">2 Corinthians 9:13</a>; <a href="/2_corinthians/13-3.htm">2 Corinthians 13:3</a>.) "Affliction" seems to have befallen the Churches of Macedonia very heavily (<a href="/1_thessalonians/1-6.htm">1 Thessalonians 1:6</a>; <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-14.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:14</a>), chiefly through the jealousy of the Jews, who excited the hatred of the Gentiles (<a href="/acts/16-20.htm">Acts 16:20</a>; <a href="/acts/17-5.htm">Acts 17:5, 13</a>). The abundance of their joy. Another reference to joy in sadness (see on 2 Corinthians 7:4). There is not the least necessity to understand the verb "is" or "was" after this clause. "The abundance... abounded" is indeed a pleonasm, but is not at all unlike the style of St. Paul. He means to say that their joy overflowed their affliction, and their liberality overflowed their poverty (<a href="/mark/12-44.htm">Mark 12:44</a>). Their deep poverty; literally, their pauperism to the depth; their abysmal penury. Though they were βαθύπτωχοι, they showed themselves in generosity to be βαθυπλουτοι. Stanley refers to Arnold's 'Roman Commonwealth,' where he mentions that the provinces of Macedonia and Achaia, which had suffered greatly in the three civil wars, appealed successfully to Tiberius for a diminution of their burdens. The gift of the Macedonians was like the widow's mite (<a href="/luke/21-3.htm">Luke 21:3, 4</a>, where similar words occur - perisseuo, husterema). Of their liberality; rather, of their singleness of purpose or simplicity (<a href="/ephesians/6-5.htm">Ephesians 6:5</a>). The "grace" and single-heartedness to which he alludes showed themselves in liberality. <a href="/commentaries/2_corinthians/8-2.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>In ἐν (en) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. [the] terrible πολλῇ (pollē) Adjective - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4183.htm">Strong's 4183: </a> Much, many; often. ordeal δοκιμῇ (dokimē) Noun - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1382.htm">Strong's 1382: </a> A trial, proof; tried, approved character. From the same as dokimos; test; by implication, trustiness. they suffered, θλίψεως (thlipseōs) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2347.htm">Strong's 2347: </a> Persecution, affliction, distress, tribulation. From thlibo; pressure. their αὐτῶν (autōn) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive Masculine 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_846.htm">Strong's 846: </a> He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. abundant περισσεία (perisseia) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4050.htm">Strong's 4050: </a> Abundance, superfluity. From perisseuo; surplusage, i.e. Superabundance. joy χαρᾶς (charas) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5479.htm">Strong's 5479: </a> Joy, gladness, a source of joy. From chairo; cheerfulness, i.e. Calm delight. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. deep βάθους (bathous) Noun - Genitive Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_899.htm">Strong's 899: </a> From the same as bathus; profundity, i.e. extent; mystery. poverty πτωχεία (ptōcheia) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4432.htm">Strong's 4432: </a> Poverty, destitution. From ptocheuo; beggary, i.e. Indigence. overflowed ἐπερίσσευσεν (eperisseusen) Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4052.htm">Strong's 4052: </a> From perissos; to superabound, be in excess, be superfluous; also to cause to superabound or excel. into εἰς (eis) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1519.htm">Strong's 1519: </a> A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases. rich πλοῦτος (ploutos) Noun - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4149.htm">Strong's 4149: </a> From the base of pletho; wealth, i.e. money, possessions, or abundance, richness, valuable bestowment. generosity. ἁπλότητος (haplotētos) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_572.htm">Strong's 572: </a> Simplicity, sincerity, purity, graciousness. From haplous; singleness, i.e. sincerity, or generosity. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_corinthians/8-2.htm">2 Corinthians 8:2 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/8-2.htm">2 Corinthians 8:2 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/2_corinthians/8-2.htm">2 Corinthians 8:2 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/8-2.htm">2 Corinthians 8:2 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/8-2.htm">2 Corinthians 8:2 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/2_corinthians/8-2.htm">2 Corinthians 8:2 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_corinthians/8-2.htm">2 Corinthians 8:2 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_corinthians/8-2.htm">2 Corinthians 8:2 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/2_corinthians/8-2.htm">2 Corinthians 8:2 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/2_corinthians/8-2.htm">2 Corinthians 8:2 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-2.htm">NT Letters: 2 Corinthians 8:2 How that in much proof of affliction (2 Cor. 2C iiC 2Cor ii cor iicor) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_corinthians/8-1.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Corinthians 8:1"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 8:1" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_corinthians/8-3.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Corinthians 8:3"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 8:3" /></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>