2 Corinthians 8:7 - Exposition

Therefore ; rather, but . In the following verses to 2 Corinthians 8:15 he tells them his wishes about this collection. He desires them to show generosity among their other graces ( 2 Corinthians 8:7 ), not by way of command, but that they may emulate others and show their love ( 2 Corinthians 8:8 ) by following the example of Christ ( 2 Corinthians 8:9 ). And by acting thus they would prove the sincerity of their former promises ( 2 Corinthians 8:10 , 2 Corinthians 8:11 ), especially as he did not wish them to give more than they could justly spare by way of reciprocity ( 2 Corinthians 8:12-15 ). As ye abound in every thing, in faith, etc. Perhaps "by faith," etc., "St. Paul," says Grotius, "knew the art of the orators to move by praising." This method of conciliating attention is technically called proparaitesis . The praise was, of course, sincere, though, no doubt, it was expressed with the generosity of love (see 1 Corinthians 1:5 ). And in your love to us. The Greek is more emphatic," and by the love from you in us;" i.e. by the love which streams from you, and which I feel in myself. In this grace also; namely, the grace of Christian liberality.