NOW concerning the contribution for the saints, it is superfluous for
me to write unto you. (2)For I know your readiness of mind, for which I
boast of you to the Macedonians, that Achaia had made preparation a
year ago; and your zeal hath stirred up very many. (3)But I have sent
the brethren, that our glorying in you might not be vain in this
matter; that as I have said, ye may be prepared. (4)Lest haply if the
Macedonians come with me, and find you unprepared, we (not to say, you)
may be confounded in this confidence of boasting. I (5)have thought it
necessary therefore to exhort the brethren, that they would go before
unto you, and prepare before your promised bounty, that it may be ready
as a matter of bounty, and not as _extorted_ of covetousness.
(6)But this I add, He that soweth sparingly, shall reap also sparingly,
and he that soweth bountifully, shall reap also bountifully. (7)Let
every man, as he hath purposed in heart, give, not with reluctance or
of necessity; for God loveth a cheerful giver. (8)And God is able to
make all grace abound towards you; that in every case having always all
sufficiency, ye may abound unto every good work: (9)as it is written,
"He hath scattered abroad, he hath given to the poor, his righteousness
abideth for ever[107]." (10)Now he that supplieth seed to the sower,
shall also supply bread for food, and multiply your seed sown, and
increase the fruits of your righteousness, (11)being in every thing
enriched unto all liberality, which _causeth_ by us thanksgiving to
God. (12)For the ministration of this _charitable_ service not only
abundantly supplies the deficiencies of the saints, but also overflows
with many thanksgivings to God; (13)(while by the evidence of this
ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection to the
gospel of Christ, and for your liberality towards them, and towards all
men;) (14)and with their prayers for you, greatly longing after you, on
account of the transcendent grace of God in you. (15)Thanks be to God
for his inexpressible gift.