The child of God and his spirit of giving are discussed in chapter 9.

Paul's instruction concerning the gift for the Jerusalem Saints is found in verses 1-5.  Paul declares it is in excess of being necessary that he write unto them concerning the gift that he has referred to in chapter 8. The opening part of the ninth chapter ties in so well with the eighth chapter that we have a continued subject here. The saints at Jerusalem were under sore trial for their faith, and a legitimate cause had arisen. Paul now continues on the subject of the offering to be taken up for those brethren in need. Paul had boasted of the willingness of the Corinthian believers to help their sorely pressed brethren to the Macedonian Christians (verse 2). When told of the need, these people had been willing and eager to do their part and more. As Paul preached and ministered among the Macedonian believers, he set before them the good example of the attitude of those Christians at Corinth. For a year now there had been talk of and support for this project at Corinth. Their example had stimulated the majority of those in Macedonia to do the same. Paul was sending ahead men to help in the collecting of the promised gift, and he hoped that the gift might be ready when he arrived (verse 3). Think how embarrassed both Paul and Corinthian believers would be if when he came, the gift had not been received yet. To many, it would seem that his boasting had been hollow and empty. Some would even accuse Paul of lying in order to get a large collection. Some people in our day have all kinds of stories and almost cry for the people to give to uphold their reputation as one who is able to bring in a good offering. Paul took this practical approach so that they would be ready as he said they would be when he came. A little common sense and good business procedures are not unspiritual. In fact, in many cases, it might bring more harmony among the saints if properly practiced. When those you trust let you down, it is humiliating; and Paul took some steps to avoid this (verse 4). If after talking as he had about these Corinthian Christians and one of the Macedonian Christians had come and there was no money, Paul would have been quite humiliated. Both Paul and Christians at Corinth would have been in the same boat, however. So these practical steps were taken to avoid such a thing. It is good to be practical as well as positive. Paul has sent these brethren ahead to gather the love offering before his arrival (verse 5). Paul wanted this gift in readiness when he arrived, and the men he was sending ahead were to take up the task and the job done. This was done so when Paul arrived, it would not have to be taken up in such a manner as to give the impression that it had been wrung out of them. The thought is also set forth as not to be thought of in the light of an extortion but rather as a generous and willing gift given from hearts of love.

The principle of spiritual giving set before the child of God is found in verses 6-9. You reap as you sow (verse 6). The farmer is brought to our attention to illustrate this divine principle. If one were to sow sparingly, he/she would reap the same way. If one were to sow bountifully as to the need, then he/she would profit from a good harvest. As Christians we are to be aware of the sparingly or grudgingly giving which shall reap the same. Giving is a personal responsibility before God (verse 7). As a man purposeth in his heart means his heart consents as to what is to be given. The person who is living a day by day surrendered life will not go wrong here. This giving is not to be done reluctantly or sorrowfully because we have to. God does not reward this type of giving; thus, it does the giver no good. God loveth a cheerful giver- quoted from Proverbs 22:9. God takes delight in the joyous giver. Unless we feel it is an honor and a joy to give, God does not accept the offering. Be careful how much law you try to impose on your people to whom God sends you to ministry. Remember when the people are taught proper giving and spiritual things are right, there will be little need in the treasury. God is able to make it possible for you to give (verse 8). Notice with care those words, "God is able." Here is the source of our ability to give; and as we trust Him, He will provide. God is able to make every earthly blessing come to you in abundance. From this it would appear that the liberal and cheerful giver will always have something to give. In fact, the good giver is here promised that he will not need aid but will possess enough to take care of himself and help others besides. Surely the cup is full and running over. This type of spiritual giving if followed will follow one forever (verse 9). The promise to the one who disperses abroad and gives from a liberal heart is of eternal reward. Here from Psalms 112 we have a divine principle set before us to follow. As this person disperses with a full and open hand, the God of heaven will be his/her supplier. In more ways than one, God works through His people. Speaking forth the gospel is one, and doing deeds of kindness must not be overlooked.

The wonderful reward and praise to God that comes to the life of one who follows spiritual standards in his/her giving is discussed in verses 10-15. God is our supplier (verse 10). This verse is a declaration of what God will do and not some far-fetched dream. God is our supplier, and He is able to give as only a Deity can afford. A song writer expressed it simply and clearly, "He giveth and He giveth and He giveth again." God will not only supply but multiply the substance of the faithful child of God. Beginning with Gen. 1:22, the word multiply holds real meaning. The fruits of our righteousness manifest themselves in the harvest of good works seen in our lives. They could be mentioned as active goodness and kindness. Our lives, when lived on a liberal plane, can result in bringing praise to God from others (verse 11). The more one gives properly before the Lord, the richer one becomes. Remember this involves far more than just money; the giving of comfort and understanding are also important. People are brought into the position of praising God as the result of the help we have been to them. Remember, regardless of how you are assisting any person, keep their attention focused upon Jesus Christ. It is well for us to keep in mind as we represent Jesus Christ here on earth of the way He gave. Should we His servants exhibit any other attitude or philosophy? Liberal giving not only meets the needs of the present but brings praise to God (verse 12). Through the generous giving of these Christians, the blessings would be overflowing. Again the thanksgiving of the saints is brought to our attention as the result of the liberal attitude of fellow saints. Apparently, these Christians were exhorted to do as much as possible, not as little as they could get away with. Standing true to Christ and obeying His commands will cause others to rejoice before God as they witness your testimony (verse 13). These Corinthian believers could prove by the simple test of obedience in this manner the reality of their faith to others. This results in a good witness before the heathen. Also, the brethren in Christ will glorify God as the result of their loyalty. In this particular case the saints in Jerusalem would praise God for their liberal distribution. A key to the spiritually filled spirit and the directed giving believer is indicated in those words "your liberal distribution" or "liberal hearted liberality." Hearts knit together in the bond of love before Christ will produce mutual benefit (verse 14). Upon being the recipient of the goods of fellow Christians in the time of need, prayer on behalf of the giver will be offered. One does not give without being the receiver of something in return, and often times it is far better. How often have you seen God praised because of the liberality of one of His Children? Next time you have reason to be the receiver of blessings, remember not only to thank but to pray for the one by whom you were blessed. This should come and be in behalf of those in a special way who impart special blessings to you. God's wonderful gift sets the example for giving (verse 15). This verse is one of the well known and beloved verses of God's word. He breathes out a prayer of thanks be to God for His precious gift. This free gift of God to man is indescribable as to its nature or comprehension.