What happensPermalink
Paul points to the Macedonian churches, who gave generously out of deep poverty, as an example of God’s grace at work. He urges the Corinthians, rich in faith and knowledge, to excel also in generosity. Their giving will mirror Christ himself, who became poor so that through his poverty believers might become rich. God’s design is fairness—just as with the manna in the wilderness, those who have much share with those who have little.
Why it mattersPermalink
Paul connects God’s provision in the wilderness to the sharing of resources in the church. Christ’s self-giving makes generosity both natural and necessary for the unity of believers.
Key versePermalink
Your abundance at the present time should supply their need, so that their abundance may supply your need, that there may be fairness.