2 Corinthians 8:12
For if the readiness is there, it is acceptable according to what a person has, not according to what he does not have.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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This verse highlights that God's focus isn't on the amount we give, but on the willingness of our heart to give what we can. It's a powerful reminder that generosity is measured by our honest effort, not by some impossible standard of what we wish we had.
Paul is urging the Corinthian church to complete their generous offering for the struggling believers in Jerusalem, reminding them that God values the willing heart. He’s just spoken of the Macedonian churches, who gave sacrificially even in their poverty, setting a high bar. This verse emphasizes that God’s standard for giving isn’t based on what’s impossible for someone, but on what they can offer from what they already possess, with a willing spirit.
We often think giving generously means having a lot to give. But what if God's standard is different?
Paul is laying out principles for a collection, but his words here get to the heart of why we give.
God Sees Your Heart
The core idea is that God’s acceptance of our giving isn't based on the amount of our wealth, but the willingness of our spirit. If you have the desire to give, God honors that readiness. It's about the intention behind the act.
Not About What You Lack
This verse pushes back against any pressure or guilt related to not having more. You're not expected to give what you don't possess. Your giving is measured by the resources God has entrusted to you, and your heart's response to sharing them.
Readiness is key, but what does that readiness look like in practical terms?
While Paul highlights the importance of a willing heart, this verse is situated within a larger discussion about actual giving.
Readiness Sparks Action
'Readiness' here implies a prepared and willing spirit that is ready to act. It’s not passive wishing, but an active disposition to share when opportunity arises. It’s the opposite of reluctance or hoarding.
Practical Stewardship
God expects us to be good stewards of what He has given us. This readiness is tested and expressed when we translate our willing heart into tangible acts of generosity, according to our current ability. The 'what you have' includes all the resources God has placed in your hands – time, talents, and finances.
Understand the original words
prosdektos · Greek Adjective
In a theological context, this refers to that which is pleasing, acceptable, or favorable in the sight of God, often related to offerings or acts of devotion.
The instruction on giving in 2 Corinthians 8 isn't abstract theology; it's a practical response to a specific, long-term project to support suffering believers in Jerusalem, driven by the Apostle Paul himself.
c. AD 49-51
Paul's Ministry in Corinth
The Apostle Paul spends significant time in Corinth, establishing a thriving church community. This period lays the groundwork for future interactions and collections.
c. AD 55
First Letter to the Corinthians
Paul writes his first letter to the Corinthian church, addressing various issues including a collection for the needy saints in Jerusalem. This letter likely initiated the collection mentioned in Second Corinthians.
c. AD 55-56
Paul's Visit and Painful Letter
Paul visits Corinth between his first and second letters. This visit is difficult and leads him to write a severe, tearful letter (now lost) to address ongoing problems and insubordination.
c. AD 56— this verse
Second Letter to the Corinthians Written
Paul writes this second letter from Macedonia, expressing relief and joy over the Corinthians' repentance and renewed commitment. He rejoices that their sorrow led to genuine change.
This story of the widow's mite powerfully illustrates the principle that God values the willing heart and the sacrifice made according to one's means, not just the amount given.
Luke 6:38Jesus teaches that giving is met with receiving, emphasizing a generous spirit as the key, which aligns with Paul's point that the readiness and willingness are what matter most.
Acts 4:32-35This passage shows early believers sharing everything they had, demonstrating a collective readiness to meet needs, which highlights the spirit of willing generosity Paul commends.
Deuteronomy 15:7-8While focused on a different context, this Old Testament passage encourages generosity towards the needy, stressing the importance of not hardening one's heart and being willing to open one's hand, reflecting the principle of readiness.
This verse highlights that God's focus isn't on the amount we give, but on the willingness of our heart to give what we can. It's a powerful reminder that generosity is measured by our honest effort, not by some impossible standard of what we wish we had.
Paul is urging the Corinthian church to complete their generous offering for the struggling believers in Jerusalem, reminding them that God values the willing heart. He’s just spoken of the Macedonian churches, who gave sacrificially even in their poverty, setting a high bar. This verse emphasizes that God’s standard for giving isn’t based on what’s impossible for someone, but on what they can offer from what they already possess, with a willing spirit.
Paul is urging the Corinthian church to complete their generous offering for the struggling believers in Jerusalem, reminding them that God values the willing heart. He’s just spoken of the Macedonian churches, who gave sacrificially even in their poverty, setting a high bar. This verse emphasizes that God’s standard for giving isn’t based on what’s impossible for someone, but on what they offer from what they already possess, with a willing spirit.
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c. AD 56
Exhortation to Generosity
In this letter, Paul strongly encourages the Corinthians to complete their promised generous offering for the poor believers in Jerusalem, emphasizing their readiness and ability.
"For if the readiness is there, it is acceptable according to what a person has, not according to what he does not have." — This verse highlights that God's focus isn't on the amount we give, but on the willingness of our heart to give what we can. It's a powerful reminder that generosity is measured by our honest e…
