2 Corinthians 9:6-15

Read 2 Corinthians 9:6-15

Helpful Background Information: 

• In our primary text this week, Jesus teaches about the kind of devotion and generosity that God is looking for (Mark 12:38-44). To do so, He contrasts two kinds of people. First, Jesus talks about the scribes—the people who dressed really nice, held social standing, and offered lengthy prayers in public places (Mark 12:41-44). Next, Jesus describes a widow—one who didn’t have much to live on but gave generously out of what she did have (Mark 12:41-44). To the surprise of those listening, Jesus elevates the widow as an example of the kind of giver God is actually looking for. 

• In 2 Corinthians, Paul provides some instruction for how and why the people of God are to give. One of the things that he talks about is the way that sowing and reaping tend to go hand-in-hand (2 Corinthians 9:6). Generally speaking, if a person sows sparingly, they’ll also reap sparingly. If they sow generously, however, they’ll also reap generously. Generosity is supposed to characterize the way we give because it reflects the generosity of the God we worship. The reason why believers can give freely is because God has first freely given. 

• Paul also says the generous giving of a believer is to be done cheerfully (2 Corinthians 9:7). When you have been enriched by the Lord and by His people, you should not need to be coerced into giving out of what you have received. The kind of giving that glorifies God goes beyond the minimum standard with a sense of joy.

Reflection Questions: 

• Based on what Paul says in 2 Corinthians, what two words should characterize the way that the people of God give? (Hint: reread verses 6-8) 

• What makes it hardest to give “cheerfully” and “generously” like Paul describes? Name some specific concerns or fears.

• Viewing what Paul says in 2 Corinthians 9 alongside what Jesus says in Mark 12, what would you say is the difference between looking generous and being generous? Try to explain using your own words.