How can we apply Paul's financial principles in 2 Corinthians 11:8 to our giving? Paul’s Remarkable Statement “I robbed other churches by accepting their support in order to serve you.” (2 Corinthians 11:8) What Paul Meant • “Robbed” is vivid language. He took funds from other assemblies so the Corinthians could receive the gospel free of charge. • He safeguarded the message from accusations that he preached for money. • He honored the right of gospel workers to receive wages (1 Corinthians 9:13-14) while personally foregoing that right in Corinth. Principle 1: Gospel Work Deserves Financial Support • Scripture states plainly: “The worker is worthy of his wages.” (1 Timothy 5:17-18) • Those who teach should be supplied: “The one who receives instruction in the word must share all good things with his instructor.” (Galatians 6:6) • Giving is a partnership in ministry (Philippians 4:15-18). When we give, we share in the fruit. Principle 2: Voluntary Sacrifice Removes Obstacles • Paul declined Corinthian money to silence critics (2 Corinthians 11:9-12). • At times believers today may waive legitimate financial rights to advance the gospel’s credibility. • Generosity can look like bearing personal cost so others hear Christ without hindrance. Principle 3: Inter-Church Partnership • Macedonian churches funded Paul’s work in Achaia; resources flowed across regional lines. • Modern application: – Support missionaries serving where the local body cannot yet give. – Assist small or struggling congregations. – Pool resources for church plants and relief efforts. Principle 4: Cheerful, Intentional Giving • “Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give… for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7) • Planned generosity reflects thoughtfulness, not impulse. • Joy marks Spirit-led giving, not reluctance or pressure. Practical Ways to Live It Out • Set aside a specific portion of income first, echoing Proverbs 3:9-10. • Budget line items for: – Local church operations – Global missions and church planting – Benevolence for believers in need (Acts 11:29-30) • Regularly review ministry reports so giving stays connected to real people and real gospel impact. • When receiving spiritual nourishment, share material resources—honoring both teacher and teaching. • Stay open to one-off opportunities the Spirit highlights: a missionary furlough, a seminary student, a disaster relief team. Biblical Encouragements for Generous Hearts • “Give, and it will be given to you.” (Luke 6:38) • “He who sows generously will also reap generously.” (2 Corinthians 9:6) • “God is able to bless you abundantly.” (2 Corinthians 9:8) Summing Up Paul’s approach in 2 Corinthians 11:8 teaches that believers willingly supply gospel workers, sometimes sacrifice rights for the gospel’s sake, and join hands across congregations. Cheerful, planned, sacrificial giving channels resources where they serve Christ’s kingdom best and keeps the good news free of charge for those yet to hear. |
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