2 Corinthians 8:11–12

2 CORINTHIANS CHAPTER 8

Paul’s Tactful Appeal and Recommendation. 2 Cor. 8, 1–24.

The principle of equality: V.11. Now, therefore, perform the doing of it, that, as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have. V.12. For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.

Paul's advice is no less effective because it lacks the force of a definite commandment; it rather gains in power by that very fact. For he points out to the Corinthian Christians that they had expressed their willingness to participate in the collection; they had made the necessary preliminary arrangements: what more logical than to expect, then, that they give evidence of their good intentions in a more substantial manner.

Therefore Paul says: But now complete the doing also, that, as there was the readiness to will, so there may be a finishing also from that which you have.

The matter of the collection was becoming more pressing and urgent every day, and since they were undoubtedly sincere in their intention of doing their share toward the alleviation of suffering in Jerusalem, they should make all speed in bringing forth concrete evidence of their purpose. They should bring the matter to an end by quick and definite action, and their performance should correspond with their willingness: they should contribute freely according to their ability; for God accepts the good will where the means are wanting to perform the deed.

Or, as Paul himself explains it: For if the readiness is present, in accordance with what a man has is he acceptable, not in accordance to what he has not. God looks upon the willingness of the heart, Mark 12, 43, and gauges the gift by that standard. The princely sum which a wealthy man gives from his abundance may be relatively smaller than the copper coin which may mean hardship and sacrifice to a poor widow.