Commentary on 2 Corinthians 8:6

Verse: "So we urged Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also complete this grace in you as well."

This verse is part of a larger discourse by the Apostle Paul concerning the collection for the impoverished church in Jerusalem. The Apostle emphasizes not only the importance of the act but also the grace involved in such charitable works, a recurring theme in his letters.

Overview of Paul’s Objective

Paul's primary objective in this passage is to encourage the Corinthian church to actively participate in the collection. He uses Titus, a respected leader in the early church, as a conduit for this message. To understand the richness of this verse, we must examine key themes and contextual elements found in public domain commentaries.

Insights from Matthew Henry

Grace Defined: Matthew Henry emphasizes that grace is not merely a static concept but is active and dynamic in the life of believers. In this context, Paul speaks of grace as a gift from God that enables believers to give generously.

The Role of Titus: Henry notes that Titus had already made strides in initiating the collection, and Paul’s exhortation reflects both confidence in Titus' leadership and his desire for unity among the churches in their support of one another.

Completion of Grace: The notion of completing grace suggests that giving is an ongoing act of faith that matures over time. Believers are called to persevere in their acts of charity, signifying growth in their understanding of God's grace.

Insights from Albert Barnes

The Importance of Completion: Albert Barnes directs attention to the concept of 'completion'. He argues that Paul urges the Corinthians to fulfill their initial promise of giving, thus underscoring their integrity and commitment to charitable deeds.

Encouragement to Action: Barnes elaborates on the importance of not just intending to give but following through with action. He affirms that good intentions must lead to actual practices of faith, revealing the true nature of Christian virtue.

Collective Responsibility: Barnes speaks of a collective responsibility to assist the wider Christian community, highlighting that the act of giving is not just an individual endeavor but a communal expression of faith.

Insights from Adam Clarke

Encouragement through Example: Adam Clarke emphasizes the role of example in teaching. Paul’s message is shaped by the example of Titus, who serves as a model for the Corinthians. Clarke highlights that leaders must embody the virtues they encourage in their followers.

Nurturing Generosity: Clarke points out that Paul’s communication involves an admonition to nurture their hearts towards generosity. He perceives giving not just as a duty but as a natural overflow of a heart attuned to God’s grace.

Spiritual Growth: He also notes that engaging in acts of grace leads to spiritual growth. The process cultivates a character reflective of Christ, as giving is intimately connected to the nature of God Himself, who is described as a giver.

Theological Themes

This verse encapsulates several theological themes that are pivotal for understanding Christian stewardship and communal support:

• The Nature of Grace: Grace is central to giving, for it is God’s grace that motivates and enables believers to respond in generosity.
• Faith and Action: Paul connects faith with action. Genuine faith produces tangible results, evidenced in the act of giving.
• Christian Community: The mutual assistance among the churches showcases the unity that should characterize the body of Christ. It reflects the principle of bearing one another's burdens.
• Perseverance in Good Works: The challenge to complete the undertaking suggests a call to perseverance in good works, reflective of James 1:22—being doers of the word, not hearers only.

Practical Applications for Believers

As the church reflects on this verse, several practical applications emerge:

• Commitment to Generosity: Believers are encouraged to commit to ongoing acts of service and generosity within their communities.
• Following Leadership: Members of the church should look to their leaders as examples in faith-filled generosity and actions.
• Assessing Intentions: Christians are called to align intentions with actions, ensuring their faith is lived out in practical ways.
• Fostering Community Support: Engage in initiatives that encourage communal responsibility and mutual aid within the body of Christ.

Conclusion

2 Corinthians 8:6 serves as a vital reminder of the intertwining relationship between grace, faith, and action within the Christian life. Through the insights of Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, we glean a deeper understanding of Paul’s intent in urging the Corinthians to fulfill their desired support for one another. This passage not only calls for action but also highlights the transformative nature of grace that compels believers to reflect Christ's love through generous giving.