Tithing vs Generous Giving in 2 Corinthians 9
Understanding Tithing vs Generous Giving in 2 Corinthians 9
Paul's discussion of giving in 2 Corinthians 9 provides insight into the early Christian understanding of generosity and its distinction from traditional practices like tithing. The passage begins with Paul's encouragement to the Corinthian church to prepare their gift for the Jerusalem church ahead of time, so that it might be given willingly and not reluctantly [1]. This sets the tone for a discussion on the nature of giving that is cheerful and voluntary.
The literary context of 2 Corinthians 8-9 is crucial. Paul is discussing a collection for the saints in Jerusalem, emphasizing the importance of generosity and the blessings that come from it. The surrounding chapters highlight the example of the Macedonian churches, who gave generously despite their poverty, and the theological basis for giving, rooted in the grace of God as seen in Christ's self-giving [5].
Historically, this passage is part of Paul's broader effort to foster unity between Gentile and Jewish Christians through acts of charity. The collection for Jerusalem was a significant gesture of solidarity and support, demonstrating the interconnectedness of the early Christian communities [9].
Key terms in 2 Corinthians 9 include "generous gift" (εὐλογία, eulogia) and "cheerful giver" (ἱλαρός, hilaros). The term "generous gift" emphasizes the positive and gracious nature of giving, while "cheerful giver" underscores the attitude with which giving should be done [1, 3]. The original language highlights the importance of the giver's disposition.
A major exegetical decision in this passage involves understanding the nature of the "service of giving" (διακονία τῆς λειτουργίας, diakonia tēs leitourgias) mentioned in 2 Corinthians 9:12. This service is not just about meeting the needs of the saints but also about abounding in thanksgiving to God. Interpreters like John Gill see this as a demonstration of God's grace both to the givers and the receivers [2, 6].
The range of interpretations on 2 Corinthians 9 reflects various traditions. Some, like the Protestant academics at Tyndale House, emphasize the connection between generous giving and the blessings of God, citing the principle that "the one who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully" (2 Cor 9:6) [4]. Others, like Jamieson, Fausset & Brown, highlight the importance of the giver's intention and attitude, stressing that giving should be done "according as he purposeth in his heart" and not grudgingly or out of necessity [8].
This passage has functioned significantly in Christian tradition, particularly in discussions around giving and generosity. It has been used to encourage voluntary and cheerful giving, contrasting with a more legalistic or obligatory approach to financial giving, such as tithing. While tithing is not directly mentioned in 2 Corinthians 9, the passage's emphasis on generosity and the grace of giving has influenced Christian thought on the matter, suggesting that giving should be motivated by a desire to honor God and support the community of believers, rather than merely fulfilling a legal or traditional obligation [7].
The impact of 2 Corinthians 9 on Christian practice is evident in its encouragement of a generous and unified church. Paul envisioned a worldwide Christian community where Gentile and Jewish believers were united in Christ, demonstrating their unity through acts of charity and mutual support [9]. This vision continues to shape Christian understanding of giving and community.
Sources
- 2 Corinthians “I thought it necessary therefore to entreat the brothers that they would go before to you, and arrange ahead of time the generous gift that you promised before, that the same might be ready as a matter of generosity, and not of greediness. -- 2 Corinthians 9:5”
- 2 Corinthians “For this service of giving that you perform not only makes up for lack among the saints, but abounds also through many givings of thanks to God; -- 2 Corinthians 9:12”
- 2 Corinthians “Let each man give according as he has determined in his heart; not grudgingly, or under compulsion; for God loves a cheerful giver. -- 2 Corinthians 9:7”
- Proverbs (Protestant academic) “Tyndale House on Proverbs 11:24: 11:24-26 Generous people who give freely to others will prosper, but those who hoard their money will lose it (see 28:27; 2 Cor 9:6-9).”
- 2 Corinthians (Protestant academic) “Tyndale House on 2 Corinthians 8:9: 8:9 The model for generous giving is the Lord himself, who was rich in the Father’s presence (John 17:5, 24) yet became poor by accepting a human existence and death on the cross (see Phil 2:6-11). By that self-giving sacrifice, he could make people rich with the blessings of salvation.”
- 2 Corinthians (Baptist/Reformed) “John Gill on 2 Corinthians 9:15: Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift. Meaning either the goodness of God, both to the giver and receiver; for that the one gave so liberally, and the other received so largely, was from the grace of God, who so powerfully inclines the hearts of his children to do good, and offer so willingly of what he has given them, and who so wonderfully provides for the supply of the poor and needy; or else that exceeding grace of God which was so eminently, largely, and freely bestowed on the Corinthians in their effectual calling; or, as some think, Christ himself,”
- 2 Corinthians (Protestant academic) “Tyndale House on 2 Corinthians 8:7: 8:7 This is the key verse in Paul’s exposition on Christian giving (8:1–9:15). The Corinthians had a reputation for spiritual gifts (1 Cor 1:5-7; 14:12). Now, they must be leaders in this gracious act of giving, which is a hallmark of true spirituality (cp. 1 Cor 13:1-13). God had been lavish in his goodness to the Corinthians, so they should be generous to the Jewish believers in their need (2 Cor 9:13). This would be recognized as a sign of unity in Christ.”
- 2 Corinthians (Presbyterian) “Jamieson, Fausset & Brown on 2 Corinthians 9:7: according as he purposeth in his heart--Let the full consent of the free will go with the gift [ALFORD]. Opposed to "of necessity," as "grudgingly" is opposed to "a cheerful giver" (Pro 22:9; Pro 11:25; Isa 32:8).”
- 2 Corinthians (Protestant academic) “Tyndale House on 2 Corinthians 9:10: 9:10-14 The Corinthians’ generosity would be matched by God’s generosity (9:10-11). It would also meet the needs of Jewish Christians (9:12), honor God (9:13), show believers in Jerusalem that their Gentile brothers and sisters were genuine believers (9:13), and result in the Jewish believers’ intercessory prayer and affection for the Gentile believers (9:14). Paul envisioned a united, worldwide Christian church, composed of believing Jews and Gentiles who are all one in Christ Jesus (Gal 3:28; Eph 2:11-22), which would become a powerful witness to the Lord”