2 Corinthians 8:12 NIV

Matthew Henry's Complete Commentary - 2 Corinthians 8:7-15

In these verses the apostle uses several cogent arguments to stir up the Corinthians to this good work of charity. I. He urges upon them the consideration of their eminence in other gifts and graces, and would have them excel in this of charity also, 2 Cor. 8:7. Great address and much holy art are here used by the apostle. When he would persuade the Corinthians to this good thing, he commends them for other good things that were found in them. Most people love to be complimented, especially... read more

William Barclay

William Barclay's Daily Study Bible - 2 Corinthians 8:1-15

8:1-15 Brothers, we want you to know about the grace of God which was given in the Churches of Macedonia. We want you to know that even when they were going through a severe test of their faith when things were pressing sorely on them, their overflowing happiness and their poverty which reached the very depths of destitution combined to overflow into the wealth of their generosity. For, I bear witness, they gave according to their ability, yes, beyond their ability, quite spontaneously,... read more

John Gill

John Gills Exposition of the Bible Commentary - 2 Corinthians 8:12

For if there be first a willing mind ,.... If what is done springs from a truly noble, generous spirit, a spirit of bountifulness and liberality; and is given cheerfully and freely, and according to a man's ability; the quantity matters not, whether it be more or less: it is accepted ; both of God and man: according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not . The widow's mite was as acceptable, and more so, than all the rich men cast into the treasury; a cup of cold... read more

Adam Clarke

Adam Clarke's Commentary on the Bible - 2 Corinthians 8:12

According to that a man hath - According to his real property; not taking that which belongs to his own family, and is indispensably necessary for their support; and not taking that which belongs to others; viz. what he owes to any man. read more

Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - 2 Corinthians 8:1-24

These two chapters (8 and 9) form an independent section of the Epistle. The plural alone ("we") is used throughout; participial and unfinished constructions abound; the style is a little embarrassed; and various words, such as "grace," "blessing," "righteousness," "simplicity," occur in somewhat unusual shades of meaning. All this arises: 1 . From St. Paul's natural delicacy in alluding to pecuniary subjects. 2 . From a desire to conciliate the Corinthians, while at the same... read more

Spence, H. D. M., etc.

The Pulpit Commentary - 2 Corinthians 8:12

For if there be first a willing mind, etc. "For if the readiness is forth- coming, it is acceptable," etc. In other words, God considers not quantum, but ex quanto; not the magnitude of the gift, but the proportion which it bears to the means of the giver. read more

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Whole Bible - 2 Corinthians 8:12

For if there be first a willing mind - If there is a “readiness” (προθυμία prothumia), a disposition to give; if the heart is in it, then the offering will be acceptable to God, whether you be able to give much or little. A willing mind is the first consideration. No donation, however large, can be acceptable where that does not exist; none, however small, can be otherwise than acceptable where that is found. This had relation as used by Paul to the duty of almsgiving; but the principle is as... read more

Joseph Benson

Joseph Benson's Commentary of the Old and New Testaments - 2 Corinthians 8:10-12

2 Corinthians 8:10-12. And herein In this matter; I give my advice That to finish your collection immediately is for your reputation, who have formerly begun, not only to make the collection, but also to manifest a remarkable willingness; even a year ago When Titus was with you. Now, therefore, perform, &c. Speedily finish the business, agreeably to your former resolution; that as there was a readiness to will And undertake this charitable work; so there may be a performance, ... read more

Donald C. Fleming

Bridgeway Bible Commentary - 2 Corinthians 8:1-15

8:1-9:15 COLLECTION FOR THE POOR IN JERUSALEMAbout a year earlier Paul had given instructions to the Corinthians about the collection of money he was organizing for the poor Christians in Jerusalem (1 Corinthians 16:1-4). The Corinthians had made a start (see 9:2), but in the meantime they became so concerned with their own difficulties that they neglected their responsibilities in the matter. Now that they have cleared up their local troubles, Paul reminds them of the importance of this... read more

E.W. Bullinger

E.W. Bullinger's Companion Bible Notes - 2 Corinthians 8:12

if . App-118 . be first = is set forth, or set before. Greek. prokeimai. Occ, elsewhere, Hebrews 6:18 ; Hebrews 6:12 , Hebrews 6:1 , Hebrews 6:2 .Jude 1:7 . willing mind . Same as "readiness", 2 Corinthians 8:11 . accepted . Greek. euprosdektos. See Romans 15:16 . that = whatsoever. read more