2Cor 8:1 We want you to know, brothers, about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia
The sample of Christian giving, I trust, is set for us in 2Cor 8 and 9. The teaching on giving every so often leaves a bad taste on believers’ mouths, ordinarily due to the fact of the abuse, guilt, legalistic methods it is presented to the people. And what is to be a delight turns to become a burden with the feeling of having to as an alternative than the desire to.
Paul right here takes occasion from the proper example of the Macedonian churches, (Philippi, Thessalonica, Berea, and others), to exhort the Corinthians and the Christians in Achaia to the true work of giving (charity). We see this definitely with his call to Macedonia, Act 16:9-10.
Macedonia (extended land) was a large and celebrated country which received the gospel directly from Paul. The character of the Christians of Macedonia were very favorable, the Bereans were highly commended in Act 17:11 for their diligence in searching and studying scriptures. Great work was happening, the evidence was their fruit displayed in loving God and serving His people all credited to the grace of God. To be continued…