[1] It is indeed unnecessary for me to write to you concerning the service
to the saints, [2] for I know your readiness, of which I boast on your
behalf to them of Macedonia, that Achaia has been prepared for a year past.
Your zeal has stirred up very many of them. [3] But I have sent the
brothers, that our glorying on your behalf may not be made void in this
respect, that, even as I said, you may be prepared, [4] so that I won`t by
any means, if there come with me any of Macedonia and find you unprepared,
we (to say nothing of you) should be put to shame in this confident
boasting. [5] I thought it necessary therefore to entreat the brothers that
they would go before to you, and arrange ahead of time the generous gift
that you promised before, that the same might be ready as a matter of
generosity, and not of greediness. [6] Remember this: he who sows sparingly
will also reap sparingly. He who sows bountifully will also reap
bountifully. [7] Let each man give according as he has determined in his
heart; not grudgingly, or under compulsion; for God loves a cheerful giver.
[8] God is able to make all grace abound to you, that you, always having
all sufficiency in everything, may abound to every good work. [9] As it is
written, "He has scattered abroad, he has given to the poor. His
righteousness remains forever." [10] Now may he who supplies seed to the
sower and bread for food, supply and multiply your seed for sowing, and
increase the fruits of your righteousness; [11] you being enriched in
everything to all liberality, which works through us thanksgiving to God.
[12] For this service of giving that you perform not only makes up for lack
among the saints, but abounds also through many givings of thanks to God;
[13] seeing that through the proof given by this service, they glorify God
for the obedience of your confession to the gospel of Christ, and for the
liberality of your contribution to them and to all; [14] while they
themselves also, with supplication on your behalf, yearn for you by reason
of the exceeding grace of God in you. [15] Thanks be to God for his
unspeakable gift!
