Venice church of Christ4d ago
For I do not say this so there would be relief for others and suffering for you, but as a matter of equality. At the present time, your abundance will meet their need, so that one day their abundance may also meet your need, and thus there may be equality (2 Corinthians 8:13-14).
Show threadVenice church of Christ4d ago

#Paul addressed possible apprehensions and reservations which might exist among the Corinthian #Christians regarding #giving.

They might worry about giving to others while they are in the midst of some affliction at the moment or perhaps in the face of affliction to come. 

Show threadVenice church of Christ4d ago

Paul encouraged them to understand the matter in terms of #equality and #reciprocity: yes, at the moment, they abound and can meet the need of the Judean Christians. 

But the time might come when they will be in need and their need might well be met by the abundance of the Judean Christians. 

Show threadVenice church of Christ

Christian giving should never be unctuous, patronizing, and presumptuous, vainly imagining we are always going to be the one with the largesse to bestow upon the lesser. 

Instead, we give as God has given us, recognizing the time will come when we will need to receive from others as God has given to them. 

We are equal in Christ, not greater or lesser than.

Apr 10 at 6:00pmPostBoost
Show threadVenice church of Christ4d ago
Why is it so important for Christian giving to be shared as equals and in reciprocity, a sharing in the grace of God?