“God Loveth a Cheerful Giver”

CFM: September 18–24

2 Corinthians 8–13

Videos and Podcasts

Video/ Podcast	​Lesson Extension	​Additional Materials
Scripture Central	2 Corinthians 8-13	Study Guide
Follow Him	2 Corinthians 8-13 Part 1, Part 2	Transcripts
Line Upon Line	2 Corinthians 8-13	​FHE Lesson
Teaching with Power	2 Corinthians 8-13
Don't Miss This	2 Corinthians 8-13
​CFM New Testament	2 Corinthians 8-13
​Unshaken	2 Corinthians 8-13 (Part 1, Part 2)
​The Interpreter Foundation	2 Corinthians 8-13	​Study helps by Jonn Claybaugh
​Teaching Helps with John Hilton	2 Corinthians 8-13
​Ponderfun	2 Corinthians 8-13 (not yet posted)
​Talking Scripture	2 Corinthians 8-13	Show Notes
​Hurricane Utah Adult Religion Class, New Testament	The Epistles of Paul, 2 Corinthians: Notes, Slides, Handout arnt22_presentation .ppsx Download PPSX • 2.39MB

Resources and Insights for this Week's Lesson

This week, we complete Paul's second letter to the Corinthians. This letter was written around 55-56 AD from Macedonia, about a year after his first letter. Be sure to review the Corinthian Cultural Insights in our previous lessons and the Supplemental info for Understanding the Epistles of Paul and Others, as this lesson builds from these foundations.

Paul speaks quite a bit about Macedonia in the sections we are studying this week, particularly commenting on the generosity they offered to support Paul's ministry and to help with a collection that the Saints were gathering to support the Church in Jerusalem. A little context pertaining to this history can be helpful for one to get a better understanding of Paul's letter.

In previous lessons we discussed the political tensions that were rising in Jerusalem between the Romans and the Jewish/ Christian populations in Jerusalem (The Fall of Jerusalem;A Temple in Flames The Final Battle for Jerusalem, and the Destruction of the Second Temple; Did Jesus really predict the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem?;The Flight to Pella). We also discussed some of the historical timelines of Paul's ministry in Acts 16-21 and Acts 22-28. This may be helpful information to review as we examine Paul's letters, as it was during this time that those tensions were escalating. Many in Jerusalem were struggling with significant poverty and persecution.

The Macedonian community provided substantial aid and support during these difficult times and Paul reflects on their example in his letter to the Corinthians. Macedonia was historically a region in northern Greece, see map below. Under the rule of King Philip II and his son Alexander the Great, Macedonia gained prominence during the 4th & 3rd century BC, spreading Hellenistic culture and influence throughout the Ancient world. By the time of Paul's missionary journeys, Greek culture, language, and religion held significant cultural and political sway. Macedonia's diverse economy, driven by agriculture, mining, and trade, played a pivotal role in supporting various cultural and religious activities.

Paul's interaction with Macedonia began with a vision that prompting his journey to Philippi, where he established the first Christian community in Europe (Acts 16:9-10). This was where Paul met Lydia, a seller of purple cloth and a worshiper of God (probably from Jewish-Phoenician descent). Through Paul's faithful missionary efforts, Lydia became the first European Christian convert. Additionally, in Philippi, Paul and his companions encountered a demon-possessed girl who was being cruelly exploited.

At that time, women were frequently considered expendable and they were used and abused for various purposes. One such purposes involved heavily drugging these women to the point of intoxication. Their owners would market them as "priestesses," describing their inebriated state as a form of Πύθωνος (pythonos) "divination". Tragically, these individuals would frequently be poisoned to the point of insanity or death. In reality, this was a highly disturbing and immoral practice, but it was very lucrative and it held traditional cultural significance, so the practitioners and communities mysticized and glamorized the abuse to the point of idolatry, so much so that many women and families even aspired to these positions. Similar situations are described in Delphi, where a Pythian Priestesses would be exposed to gasses or other types of intoxicating substance. (Note the etymological relationship between the Pythian priestess and the Greek pythonos that is intentionally used in the Greek. This word was used to describe a branch of divination that was attributed to the legends of Apollo and the Python) The intoxicating agent that was used would typically cause the oracle to babble incoherently. The "Priests" would then "translate" the woman's incoherent chatter as "divine revelation" and they would exchange the message for substantial profit. (The Oracle of Delphi- Was she Really Stoned?)

When Paul healed the woman in Philippi, in the name of Jesus, it freed her from her captivity, much to the chagrin of her owners who had profited significantly from her fortune-telling abilities. This resulted in severe persecution for Paul, and it even landed him in prison where he and his companion Silas were beaten. Many incredible miracles came out of these trials, causing several individuals to be converted to Christ and his doctrine. These profound encounters in Philippi deeply impacted the individuals and communities of Macedonia, and because of their gratitude and love for the Savior, the community made significant sacrifices to support Paul and his ministry efforts. (Paul & Silas: Preaching in Philippi, What we learn from Paul/Silas prison in Phillipi Greece.) This story and history offers valuable perspective as we consider our motivations for giving, whether that is financially or through service. Generosity motivated by gratitude and love is far more powerful and rewarding than serving because one feels guilty or obligated

Despite the many challenges that Paul faced, his ministry in Macedonia laid the foundation for Christianity's growth. The Epistle to the Philippians reflects the strong bond between Paul and the Philippian church in Macedonia, and he describes the significant financial support that the community provided, enabling him to help others. It is important to recognize that while Paul was receiving financial assistance from the Macedonians, he was not using it for himself, he worked as tentmaker in Corinth to provide for his needs, and he likely contributed much of his own earnings as well. Other notable Macedonian cities, including Thessalonica and Berea, were also visited by Paul, resulting in the establishment of core Christian centers in Europe. References in Paul's letters, such as 2 Corinthians, highlights the generosity and partnership of the Macedonian churches in supporting his missionary and humanitarian efforts, contributing significantly to the spread of the Gospel in the Roman world. (Where is Ancient Philippi?)

Overview:

In this chapter, Paul addresses the topic of financial generosity and giving, particularly in the context of a collection for the impoverished saints in Jerusalem.

Scripture	Major Topics/ Themes	​Summary	​Cross-References, Videos & Resources
2 Corinthians 8			​INT
​Verse 1-5	​The Generosity of the Macedonian Churches	Paul begins by commending the generosity of the Macedonian churches (Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea). These churches, despite their own poverty and affliction, demonstrated a wealth of generosity. Paul emphasizes that this community gave themselves to the Lord, and the fellowship of their ministry was voluntary, rooted in a deep love for the Lord and their fellow believers.	​HistoryofMacedonia.org, The Doctrine of Belonging
​Verse 6-7	​The Corinthians' Participation Encouraged	Paul encourages the Corinthians to follow this example, to excel in the grace of giving, just as the Macedonians had done. He reminds them that have been abundantly blessed, abounding in faith, utterance, knowledge, and diligence, and they should abound in grace also.	​Helping the Poor and Distressed, Are We Not All Beggars
​Verse 8-9	​The Example of Christ's Giving	Paul points to the ultimate example of giving: Jesus Christ. He highlights that Jesus, though rich, became poor for the sake of humanity's salvation. Paule advises that Christ's example is a powerful motivation for all believers to be generous.	​Consider the Goodness and Greatness of God
​Verse 10-12	​Willingness and Equality	Paul emphasizes that willingness to give is expedient, but it should not be coerced. He suggests that giving should be done according to the readiness of one's will, one's means, and it should be done with the purpose of promoting opportunity and equality among believers.	​The Responsibility for Welfare Rests with Me and My Family
​Verse 13-15	​Sharing Abundance and Avoiding Hardship	Paul explains that the goal is not to burden some while easing others but to achieve a fair distribution, one that is beneficial to both the giver and the receiver. Paul argues for a sense of fairness in this collection. The Corinthians' abundance can help those in need/want in Jerusalem, thus preventing hardship among the saints there. In verse 15, he quotes from Exodus 16:18, illustrating that God's provision is designed to result in a sharing of resources.	​The Sanctifying Work of Welfare,
​Verse 16-24	​The Trusted Messengers	Paul introduces Titus, Paul's companion who served as a Bishop (Titus 1:7). Titus was assigned the responsibility of collecting and delivering the Corinthians' contributions to Jerusalem. Paul speaks highly of the Corinthians' character and reliability. This section underscores the importance of handling financial matters with honesty, diligence, integrity, and transparency.	​Act in All Diligence

Chapter 9 continues the theme of generosity and giving introduced in the previous chapter (2 Corinthians 8). It provides further insights into the principles of cheerful and purposeful giving and the blessings associated with it.

Scripture	Major Topics/ Themes	​Summary	​Cross-References, Videos & Resources
2 Corinthians 9			​INT
​Verse 1-5	​Paul's "Boasting" about the Corinthians	In the opening verses, Paul expresses his fondness and confidence towards the Corinthians', and their willingness to give, their readiness to participate in the collection for the saints in Jerusalem. He mentions how he has boasted to other churches about the Corinthians' eagerness to help, which serves as a motivating factor for the Corinthian believers. The Hebrew word translated to "boasting" in the Septuagint is הָלַל, meaning to "sing one's praise." This is where we get Hallelujah, Hallel "praise" + Yah "Yahweh or Jehovah." Paul does not use this word in a negative light but rather to highlight the Corinthians as an example of those who find joy, strength, and light in Jesus Christ. (Alma 26:10-12, 2 Corinthians 7:13–16)
​Verse 6-7	​ Principles of Cheerful Giving	Paul emphasizes the principles of sowing and reaping. He suggests that those who sow sparingly will reap sparingly, while those who sow generously will reap generously (ἐπ εὐλογίαις). He encourages believers to give cheerfully and not grudgingly, under compulsion or reluctantly, for God loves a cheerful giver.	​The Law of Abundance, Why Giving Matters
​​Verse 8-11	​God's Abundant Provision	Paul assures the Corinthians that God is able to provide sufficiently and abundantly for them in every way, so they can be generous in all circumstances. He refers to God's bountiful blessings and the overflow of grace, which enables believers to have all they need and to excel in every good work. The chapter underscores that generosity leads to thanksgiving and glorification of God.	​Earthly Debts, Heavenly Debts
Verse 12-15	​The Impact of Generosity	Paul emphasizes that the collection for the saints in Jerusalem not only supplies their material wants and needs, but their service also results in thanksgiving to God. Believers' experimentation with generosity in their ministering and obedience to the Gospel can lead others to glorify God. This act of giving is not only about supplying the needs of the saints but also about fostering unity and love among believers.	​Overcome the World and Find Rest

Chapter 10 contains important themes related to Paul's authority as an apostle, his approach to spiritual warfare, and his concern for the Corinthian church.

Scripture	Major Topics/ Themes	​Summary	​Cross-References, Videos & Resources
2 Corinthians 10			​INT
​Verse 1-2	​Paul's Meekness and Boldness	Paul begins by addressing his critics in Corinth who accused him of being bold and forceful in his letters but weak in person. He expresses his desire to exhibit meekness when he is with the Corinthians while reserving his boldness for those who question his authority.
​Verse 3-6	​Spiritual Warfare and Divine Weapons	Paul introduces the concept of spiritual warfare, explaining that though he walks in the flesh, he does not wage war according to worldly standards. He asserts that the weapons of his warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power for demolishing the strongholds of the adversary: these include casting down prideful imaginations that separate us from the knowledge of God, controlling our thoughts and actions to live in obedience, preparing oneself to protect and defend themselves against disobedience and to help others when they have mastered obedience in those principles. The passage emphasizes the importance of spiritual discernment and obedience to Christ, taking every thought captive to obey Him.	​Winning the War against Evil, Build a Fortress of Spirituality and Protection
​Verse 7-11	​Authority and Boasting	Paul responds to those who measure themselves by human standards and outer appearances, those who boast about their own accomplishments. He states that his authority, given by the Lord, is for building up the church, not for tearing it down. Paul promises that when he arrives in Corinth, he will prove his apostolic authority through deeds, not just words.	​ On Being Genuine, The Powers of Heaven
​Verse 12-18	​Boasting in the Lord	Paul questions the wisdom of comparing and boasting about one's own accomplishments. He contrasts this behavior with the glory, commendation, and approval that Christ offers those who stretch beyond themselves and reach for Him, describing the magnifying power of Christ. Paul emphasizes that our praise should be in the Lord, not in human achievements. Paul hopes that the Corinthians will recognize that those who boast of themselves are not approved, but those whom the Lord commends have genuine authority.	​Alma 26:10-12, Spiritual Eclipse, Drawing the Power of Jesus Christ into Our Lives

​In this chapter, Paul continues to address the challenges and criticisms he faces from some in the Corinthian church. He discusses themes related to his apostolic authority, his concern for the spiritual well-being of the Corinthians, and the false apostles who are misleading them.

Scripture	Major Topics/ Themes	​Summary	​Cross-References, Videos & Resources
2 Corinthians 11			​INT
​Verse 1-3	​Concern for the Corinthians' Faithfulness	Paul expresses his deep concern for the Corinthians, fearing that they may be led astray by the folly of those who come preaching infidelity regarding the covenant. Paul uses the covenant of marriage and chastity as a metaphor, stressing the importance of fidelity to God, just as one should be faithful to their spouse. He describes the sadness and jealousy the Lord feels when we turn to worldly idols and carnal behaviors. Paul refers to the story of the Garden of Eden and describes the serpent that beguiled Eve. He explains that through subtle and crafty means, the adversary corrupted the pure simplicity and integrity of the true gospel that was centered on Jesus Christ and his doctrine, replacing it with a counterfeit form of Priestcraft, thereby confusing the minds of the people.	"The Great Imitator"
​Verse 4-6	​The Danger of False Apostles	Paul warns the Corinthians about the presence of false apostles and messiahs who preach a different gospel. He acknowledges that he may not be as eloquent as these false apostles in speech but asserts that his knowledge of Christ is genuine. Paul emphasizes that he does not consider himself in any way inferior to these "super-apostles".	​A Framework for Personal Revelation, Beware of False Prophets and False Teachers
​Verse 7-15	​Paul's Apostolic Sacrifices and Suffering	Paul defends his apostolic authority by recounting his sacrifices and sufferings for the sake of the Gospel. He highlights that he worked to support himself and his companions, refusing financial support from the Corinthians to avoid being a burden. Paul mentions his sufferings, including beatings, imprisonment, and near-death experiences, to demonstrate his dedication to Christ's mission.
​Verse 16-21	​Boasting in Weakness and Folly	Paul employs a tone of irony, comparing himself to those who boast in human terms. He boasts in his weaknesses and acknowledges that he may not measure up to the standards of these false apostles. He declares that he will continue boasting in his weaknesses to emphasize the power of Christ.
​Verse 22-33	​Paul's Credentials and Perseverance	Paul lists his credentials, including his Hebrew/Israelite/ Abrahamic heritage, his sufferings, and his numerous experiences and encounters with danger. He shares an account of being lowered in a basket to escape from danger in Damascus. This section underscores Paul's determination to preach the Gospel regardless of the hardships he faces.

Corinthians 12 continues the themes of Paul's apostolic authority, personal experiences, and his emphasis on God's grace in the midst of weakness. It also includes Paul's famous reference to the "thorn in the flesh."

Scripture	Major Topics/ Themes	​Summary	​Cross-References, Videos & Resources
2 Corinthians 12			​INT
​Verse 1-6	​Paul's Vision and Revelations	Although not explicitly stated, Paul begins referring to himself in 3rd person, mentioning a man who had a remarkable spiritual experience, being caught up to the "third heaven" (paradise, Celestial Kingdom, Degrees of Glory). Paul emphasizes that the man saw and heard "inexpressible words/ things" that were not lawful to utter, emphasizing the extraordinary nature of his revelations.	​The Throne Theophany and Prophetic Commission
​Verse 7-10	​Paul's Thorn in the Flesh	In these verses, Paul refers to a "thorn in the flesh" that was given to him lest he should be exalted above measure. While Paul doesn't specify the nature of this thorn, he indicates that it was a source of suffering and he pleaded with the Lord three times to have it removed. However, the Lord's response was that His grace was sufficient, and His power is made perfect in weakness. Paul then declares that he will take pleasure in his infirmities, necessities, reproaches, persecutions, and distresses gladly because through these weaknesses he can be strengthened in Christ.	​A Crown of Thorns, a Crown of Glory
​Verse 11-13	​Paul's Concern for the Corinthians	Paul expresses concern that the Corinthians might think less of him due to his weakness or his reluctance to boast about his spiritual experiences. He reminds them that he has not been a burden to them and asks for their forgiveness if he has wronged them in any way.
​Verse 14-18	​Paul's Challenging Relationship with the Corinthians	Paul speaks affectionately about his relationship with the Corinthians, likening it to a parent's care for their children. Paul expresses his desire to come to them a third time, emphasizing that he does not seek their possessions but them as believers. He expresses that he has spent and been spent on their behalf, and the more abundantly he loves them, the less he is loved. (How many parents can relate to that!) Paul reminds the community that he never sought financial gain from them, nor did he exercise craftiness or guile. Paul highlights the sending of Titus and another brother as evidence of his sincerity in his dealings with them	​Courageous Parenting, Loving Others and Living with Differences, Jesus Christ Is the Strength of Parents
​Verse 19-21	​Concerns about Division and Sin	Paul expresses concern that when he visits them, he may find divisions, jealousy, anger, tribalism, and other sinful behaviors among the Corinthians. He warns that he may have to confront these issues, and it would be a source of sorrow for him.	​Love Your Enemies (The Threat of Tribalism quoted by Elder Oaks)

Second Corinthians 13 is the final chapter in the Second Epistle to the Corinthians, authored by the Apostle Paul. In this concluding chapter, Paul addresses several themes, including his authority as an apostle, the need for self-examination and spiritual maturity among the Corinthians, and his desire for the church to live in harmony.

Scripture	Major Topics/ Themes	​Summary	​Cross-References, Videos & Resources
2 Corinthians 13			​INT
​Verse 1-4	​Paul's Authority and the Witnesses	Paul cites the principle from the Law of Moses that requires the testimony of multiple witnesses to validate the law, proclaiming that in the mouth of two or three witnesses, every word would be established. He clarifies that he will not be lenient with those who have sinned and not repented, even as he did during his previous visits. Paul addresses the Corinthian's desires for proof that Christ is indeed speaking through Paul.	​Scriptural Witnesses
​Verse 5	​Self-Examination and Faith	Paul urges the Corinthians to examine themselves to see whether they are in the faith. He encourages them to test and prove themselves to ensure they are walking in accordance with the teachings of Christ and they are not reprobates. This verse highlights the importance of self-reflection and self-examination in the context of Christian faith and discipleship.	​"Doubt your doubts..." Come Join with Us, We Will Prove Them Herewith
​​Verse 6-10	​Paul's Desire for Spiritual Maturity	Paul expresses his hope that the Corinthians will do what is right, hoping that he can come to edify the community, and he will not have to exercise his apostolic authority in a sharp manner. He emphasizes his desire for their spiritual growth and maturity. Paul acknowledges that he writes these things while absent but warns that when he arrives, he will not hesitate to use his authority to chastise and potentially dismantle the church.	​And Nothing Shall Offend Them
Verse 11-14	​Living in Harmony and Peace	Paul concludes by urging the Corinthians to live in peace and unity with one another. He offers a greeting and benediction, invoking the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit. This passage highlights the importance of unity and reconciliation within the Christian community.

Church Videos & Resources

• The Cheerful Giver

Scripture Central

• Study Guide

Reading Guide

2 Corinthians 8–13

Lynne Hilton Wilson, "2 Corinthians 7-13," Come Follow Me: The New Testament, 2019.

Jared W. Ludlow, “Paul’s Use of Old Testament Scripture,” in How the New Testament Came to Be: The Thirty-fifth Annual Sidney B. Sperry Symposium, ed. Kent P. Jackson and Frank F. Judd Jr. (Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University; Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 2006), 227–242.

Serving the Poor and the Needy and Cheerful Giving

• Gérald J. Caussé, “Caring for the Poor and Needy in the Growing International Church,” in Lengthening Our Stride: Globalization of the Church, ed. Reid L. Neilson and Wayne D. Crosby (Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center; Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 2018), 27–38.

• John K. Carmack, “Bless the Poor and Needy,” BYU Speeches February 2004.

• Dallin H. Oaks, “Why Do We Serve?” General Conference October 1984.

• Arthur C. Brooks, “Why Giving Matters,” BYU Speeches February 2009.

False Prophets

• M. Russell Ballard, “Beware of False Prophets and False Teachers,” General Conference October 1999.

Personal Faithfulness in the Gospel

• M. Russell Ballard, “How Elder Ballard Responded When a Member Told Him He Was a False Prophet,” LDS Living.

• Carolyn J. Rasmus, “Weak Things Made Strong,” in Fourth Nephi, From Zion to Destruction, ed. Monte S. Nyman and Charles D. Tate Jr. (Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 1995), 251–262.

The Third Heaven

• Monte S. Nyman, “Six Visions of Eternity,” in Sperry Symposium Classics: The Doctrine and Covenants, ed. Craig K. Manscill (Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 2004), 198–201.

Two or Three Witnesses

• Gaye Strathearn, “‘Jesus Christ, and Him Crucified’: Paul’s Testimony of Christ,” in Jesus Christ: Son of God, Savior, ed. Paul H. Peterson, Gary L. Hatch, and Laura D. Card (Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 2002), 334–357.2 Corinthians 1–7
  

The Bible Project

• Book of 2 Corinthians Summary: A Complete Animated Overview

BYU’s RSC

• Paul's Use of Old Testament Scripture

• Caring for the Poor and Needy in the Growing International Church

• “Weak Things Made Strong”

Additional Videos & Insights

• New Testament Minute: 2 Corinthians

• What is the Story of Ancient Corinth?

• Paul: Ministry in Corinth

• Ancient Corinth in 3-D

• Paul, Apostle of Christ (full movie available for purchase or rental on YouTube)

• New Testament History, Culture, and Society

• Early Church History Timeline 0 to 500 AD (PDF version, download)