The Heart of Generosity
Election season has passed, and I can’t remember ever hearing a political candidate suggest that the poor pay more taxes. Such a move would be career suicide. Strategists would be beside themselves and pundits in the media would have a field day. Why we all know, good citizen, that helping the poor means giving them more. What other option could even be possible?
This article isn’t to discuss taxation in contemporary America. The Bible is pretty clear on the matter (Matt. 22:21; Mark 12:17; Luke 20:25; Rom. 13:6-7). Scripture also shows that generosity is a matter of the heart, not the wallet.
Jesus emphasized this truth. He told of a widow with two mites who had enough to out-give the wealthy donor class because she gave sacrificially (Mark 12:42; Luke 21:2).
Similarly, Paul challenges the Corinthians to contribute to a collection for the poor in Jerusalem, showing that generosity transcends economic status. Written during Paul’s third missionary journey (A.D. 55-56), Second Corinthians offers a message about someone who wouldn’t have been considered among the “haves.” Paul was in Macedonia, encouraged by news from Titus about the Corinthians’ growth. In chapters 8 and 9, Paul focuses on a collection for the poor believers in Jerusalem, likely suffering from famine and persecution. This call to action reflects a broader principle: generosity is not just an obligation but a reflection of faith and gratitude.
Paul draws attention to the contrast between two regions: Macedonia and Achaia. Macedonia, though economically poorer, was richer in giving, as evidenced by the giving spirit of cities like Philippi and Thessalonica. Conversely, Achaia, home to Corinth—a bustling, affluent trade hub—was called to match Macedonia’s example. Paul’s challenge to the Corinthians was clear: a lower economic class can teach the wealthier how to give!
Paul commends the Corinthians for their willingness to give, noting that their zeal had inspired others. However, he also reminds them to fulfill their promise, emphasizing that preparedness in giving prevents last-minute reluctance or feelings of obligation. Generosity, Paul argues, should flow from a joyful heart, not from grudging duty. Generosity is about willingness, not abundance.
In Second Corinthians 9:6-9, Paul introduces the analogy of sowing and reaping. Just as a farmer reaps according to the seed sown, so too does the giver experience blessings proportionate to his generosity. Importantly, Paul highlights that God loves a cheerful giver, and His grace ensures that no act of giving leaves us lacking.
Paul attributes the ultimate source of all provision to God, “who supplies seed to the sower” (9:10). I once heard a public prayer where the man asked God to bless us in giving, even ones who were unable to give. But everyone can give. God-required giving not only meets the immediate needs of others but also results in thanksgiving and glorification of God. Moreover, generosity serves as tangible proof of faith, aligning actions with the confession of the gospel.
Paul concludes this passage by pointing to the foundation of all Christian giving: God’s “indescribable gift” of salvation through Christ. This gift, too vast for words, serves as the ultimate model of sacrificial generosity.
Giving reveals the depth of our faith. As Paul reminds us in Galatians 6:10, we are called to do good, especially to fellow believers. In giving, we reflect God’s provision, encourage others, and glorify Him. May we, like Barnabas, be known as encouragers, willing to give not just our resources but also our hearts in service to God.
“Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” (2 Cor. 9:15)
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