Words Associated With The “Money Ministry” (9:1-15)
Neal Pollard
Paul hasn’t changed the subject from what we have just read in chapter eight. He builds on his confidence in Corinth’s readiness and zeal to give, encouraging them to follow through. His encouragement includes some integral components of our contribution which should encourage us to be generous and cheerful givers.
“GOD” SHOULD MOTIVATE US IN THIS MINISTRY
With such a spiritual service as contributing from our means, you would expect a heavy dose of language pointing to God. So, Paul mentions Him seven times in chapter 9 (7-8, 11-15). God loves a cheerful giver (7). God is able to give us an abundance as we properly use it (8). God receives thanks when we are liberal givers (11-12). God is glorified when we are obedient to His command to give generously (13). God’s grace shines through our generous giving (14). God gives indescribable gifts (15). What relentless encouragement for us to reciprocate!
“GRACE” SHOULD MOTIVATE US IN THIS MINISTRY
As already noted, our contribution partners with one of the most essential, powerful qualities of God. We often restrict our thinking about God’s grace to the cross and salvation, and there is no greater example of undeserved favor. God gives grace through us in giving (8) and shows grace in us by giving (14). Isn’t it powerful to think of our free and abundant sharing supplying others with a taste of God’s grace?!
“GIVING” SHOULD MOTIVATE US IN THIS MINISTRY
Paul reminds them of their promise, warning against covetousness interrupting their giving (5). Paul exhorts, “He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully” (6). God loves a cheerful giver (7). Quoting the psalmist, Paul says that God gave to the poor and thereby proves His eternal righteousness (9) by supplying and multiplying seed for our righteous harvest (10). God is a giver (John 3:16). I want to be like God, and that is the most powerful motivator!
“GENEROSITY” SHOULD MOTIVATE US IN THIS MINISTRY
“Generosity” (ESV) or “liberality” is touted by Paul as the reason for our giving (11), the reason for others thanking God (11), the reason others glorify God (13), the reason why others will be motivated to pray for us (14) and yearn for us (14). We don’t give for men’s praise (Mat. 6:1-4); we must discipline ourselves not to seek the honor and glory of man. But, it is often a consequence of contributions made with pure, clear motives. I don’t know about you, but the thought that God might see me as generous fuels my desire to try and be more generous. Listen to this: “For the ministry of this service is not only fully supplying the needs of the saints, but is also overflowing through many thanksgivings to God” (12). Don’t forget the fruit of your generosity. It can bring joy to know that you’re needed because you’re meeting needs.
At times, we all struggle with giving as we should. A lot of obstacles crop up–fear, doubt, greed, ignorance, selfishness, apathy, and probably many others. Maybe we see the whole discussion of giving as negative and guilt-inducing. If so, perhaps we’re looking at this wrong. It is a privilege to give to the One who gave us everything material and spiritual. It is divine to act like the Great Giver. It is helpful and useful. It is enjoyable. When we approach this “ministry” as positive and joy-inducing, it will transform our effectiveness not only in worship (1 Cor. 16:1-2) but in life (1 John 3:16-17). Remember that “God loves a cheerful giver” (7).
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