2 Corinthians 8:21 - Exposition

Honest things. The word "honest" means "honourable" ( Romans 12:17 ; Proverbs 3:4 , LXX .). Not only in the sight of the Lord. Such precautions would be unnecessary if others were not concerned, for God knows our honesty ( 2 Corinthians 5:11 ). But also before men. Although the text "avoid all appearance of evil" should be rendered "avoid every species of evil," the mistranslation conveys a wise lesson. "In a field of melons," says the Chinese proverb. "do not stoop to tie your shoe;" for that will look as if you wanted to steal one of the melons.