Paul is concerned about being humiliated for being so confident about the generous gift the Corinthians will be giving. Paul used the Corinthians as an example to stir up the faith of others to give. He seems to be concerned they aren’t going to have a gift, or a generous gift, to give when he arrives.

What I would want to say to Paul is that if he spoke out of what he believed was true and not out of exaggeration or any other heart, then he can trust God to not let his word fail. God keeps his servants. He won’t let Paul be a liar if he was honestly speaking what he believed was true.

Paul is laying it on again about giving. I really hate when churches lay it on heavy with the giving verses. It feels manipulative. It makes me think they are feeling a need and they are looking to us to meet it instead of looking to the Lord.

These chapters are much quoted. Now, Paul’s not going “prosperity gospel” in preaching these things. He’s not preaching these things out of greed, wanting to get for himself and his ministry. He’s collecting money for those in need.

God used Paul’s concern of everyone being humiliated to teach us some principles of giving.

It’s to be willing, not extracted.

God loves a cheerful giver.

God is able to make sure you have what you need for the good works He has put on your heart.

Giving glorifies God and produces overflowing thanksgivings to God.

And finally from this chapter, you reap what you sow. But we don’t sow money to reap money. We sow for a harvest of righteousness. We’re after the Kingdom. That’s why we give. We give for love of God and love of others. Giving for the love of money will destroy your heart and lead to evil.