[1] Now it is superfluous for me to write to you about the offering for the
saints, [2] for I know your readiness, of which I boast about you to the
people of Macedo'nia, saying that Acha'ia has been ready since last year;
and your zeal has stirred up most of them. [3] But I am sending the
brethren so that our boasting about you may not prove vain in this case, so
that you may be ready, as I said you would be; [4] lest if some
Macedo'nians come with me and find that you are not ready, we be
humiliated--to say nothing of you--for being so confident. [5] So I thought
it necessary to urge the brethren to go on to you before me, and arrange in
advance for this gift you have promised, so that it may be ready not as an
exaction but as a willing gift. [6] The point is this: he who sows
sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also
reap bountifully. [7] Each one must do as he has made up his mind, not
reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. [8] And
God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that you
may always have enough of everything and may provide in abundance for every
good work. [9] As it is written, "He scatters abroad, he gives to the poor;
his righteousness endures for ever." [10] He who supplies seed to the sower
and bread for food will supply and multiply your resources and increase the
harvest of your righteousness. [11] You will be enriched in every way for
great generosity, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God; [12]
for the rendering of this service not only supplies the wants of the saints
but also overflows in many thanksgivings to God. [13] Under the test of
this service, you will glorify God by your obedience in acknowledging the
gospel of Christ, and by the generosity of your contribution for them and
for all others; [14] while they long for you and pray for you, because of
the surpassing grace of God in you. [15] Thanks be to God for his
inexpressible gift!
