Chapter 9
The
reason for sending Titus to collect their alms
|
1–5
|
The
Corinthians to be liberal and cheerful, The apostle thanks God for his
unspeakable gift
|
6–15
|
Verses 1–5
When we
would have others do good, we must act toward them prudently and tenderly, and
give them time. Christians should consider what is for the credit of their
profession, and endeavour to adorn the doctrine of God their Saviour in all
things. The duty of ministering to the saints is so plain, that there would
seem no need to exhort Christians to it; yet self-love contends so powerfully
against the love of Christ, that it is often necessary to stir up their minds
by way of remembrance.
Verses 6–15
Money
bestowed in charity, may to the carnal mind seem thrown away, but when given
from proper principles, it is seed sown, from which a valuable increase may be
expected. It should be given carefully. Works of charity, like other good
works, should be done with thought and design. Due thought, as to our
circumstances, and those we are about to relieve, will direct our gifts for
charitable uses. Help should be given freely, be it more or less; not
grudgingly, but cheerfully. While some scatter, and yet increase; others
withhold more than is meet, and it tends to poverty. If we had more faith and
love, we should waste less on ourselves, and sow more in hope of a plentiful
increase. Can a man lose by doing that with which God is pleased? He is able to
make all grace abound towards us, and to abound in us; to give a large increase
of spiritual and of temporal good things. He can make us to have enough in all
things; and to be content with what we have. God gives not only enough for
ourselves, but that also wherewith we may supply the wants of others, and this
should be as seed to be sown. We must show the reality of our subjection to the
gospel, by works of charity. This will be for the credit of our profession, and
to the praise and glory of God. Let us endeavour to copy the example of Christ,
being unwearied in doing good, and deeming it more blessed to give than to
receive. Blessed be God for the unspeakable gift of his grace, whereby he
enables and inclines some of his people to bestow upon others, and others to be
grateful for it; and blessed be his glorious name to all eternity, for Jesus
Christ, that inestimable gift of his love, through whom this and every other
good thing, pertaining to life and godliness, are freely given unto us, beyond
all expression, measure, or bounds.
Excerpt from:
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary on the Bible
Matthew Henry (1662 - 1714)
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