2 Corinthians 8:21
Verse
Context
Sermons




Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Providing for honest things - Taking care to act so as not only to be clear in the sight of God, but also to be clear in the sight of all men; avoiding even the appearance of evil. I wish the reader to refer to the excellent note on Co1 16:4 (note), which I have extracted from Dr. Paley.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
The Septuagint (Pro 3:4; Rom 12:17). The oldest manuscripts read, "For we provide." honest things--"things honorable."
John Gill Bible Commentary
And we have sent with him our brother,.... This is a third person sent about this business. The apostle, in this, conformed to the customs of his nation; at least if he did not purposely do it, it agrees with the Jewish canons, which require three persons for the distribution of alms. "The alms dish, (they say (x)) is by three; nor do they appoint "overseers" of it "less than three".'' Again, they say (y), "the poor's chest is collected by two, "but distributed by three"; it is collected by two, because they do not appoint governors over a congregation less than two, and it is distributed by three, even as pecuniary judgments; but the alms dish is collected by three, and distributed by three; for the collection and distribution are alike:'' who this brother was, sent by the apostle with Titus and the other person, is as uncertain as the former. Some think it was Luke, others Apollos, others Timothy, others Sosthenes, others Epaenetus, others Silas, others Zenas the lawyer; a brother he was, and a very considerable character is given of him: whom we have oftentimes proved diligent in many things; he was a very diligent and industrious man, and so fit for this service; he had been tried and proved, and was found to be so, not only once or twice, but oftentimes; and that not in a few instances, but in many; and in nothing did he ever show more diligence than in this matter: but now much more diligent; than ever he had been in anything before: upon the great confidence which I have in you; what doubled and increased this brother's diligence, and made him so eager for, and forward to this work, was, his observing the great confidence the apostle expressed of the very great readiness and liberality of the Corinthians; and which tacitly carries in it an argument exciting them thereunto: or this last clause may be read, "which he hath in you"; and so regards the confidence this brother had in them, which made him so ready to engage with, and join the other messengers. (x) T. Hieros. Peah, fol. 21. 1. (y) Misn. Peah, c. 8. sect. 7. & Jarchi, Maimonides & Bartenora, in ib. T. Bab. Bava Bathra, fol. 8. 2. Maimon. Mattanot Anayim, c. 9. sect. 5.
2 Corinthians 8:21
Titus Commended
20We hope to avoid any criticism of the way we administer this generous gift.21For we are taking great care to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord, but also in the eyes of men.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
1 Peter 2:12
By John Gill0Witnessing to Non-BelieversChristian ConductMAT 5:16ROM 12:172CO 8:21PHP 2:15COL 4:51TH 4:121TI 3:7TIT 2:7HEB 13:181PE 2:12John Gill emphasizes the importance of living an honest and upright life among non-believers, as instructed in 1 Peter 2:12. He explains that Christians, particularly Jewish converts, must conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the Gospel, especially when surrounded by those who may accuse them of wrongdoing. By demonstrating good works, believers can counteract false accusations and ultimately glorify God, whether in times of judgment or mercy. Gill highlights that the integrity of a Christian's life can lead others to recognize God's goodness and grace.
A Different Man in the Pulpit
By A.W. Tozer0IntegrityAuthenticity in MinistryPRO 10:9MAT 5:162CO 8:21EPH 4:1PHP 2:15COL 3:231TH 2:101TI 3:2JAS 1:221PE 5:2A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of integrity in the life of a pastor, arguing that a true servant of God should not change his character or demeanor when entering the pulpit. He warns against the hypocrisy of being a different person in ministry than in everyday life, advocating for a consistent spirit of reverence and authenticity. Tozer calls for pastors to embody the same values and behaviors in all aspects of their lives, ensuring that their public ministry reflects their private character.
Homily 46 on the Acts of the Apostles
By St. John Chrysostom0MAT 5:16ACT 21:201CO 11:192CO 8:21GAL 1:10GAL 2:11John Chrysostom preaches on Paul's actions in Acts 21, highlighting his humility and willingness to accommodate Jewish customs to avoid unnecessary offense. Paul's actions demonstrate the importance of considering others' sensitivities without compromising core beliefs. Despite facing false accusations and threats, Paul remains steadfast in his faith and mission, showing resilience in the face of adversity. Chrysostom emphasizes the need to prioritize God's approval over human opinions and to navigate situations with wisdom and discernment to avoid causing unnecessary stumbling blocks. The sermon underscores the balance between accommodating others for the sake of peace and standing firm in one's convictions for the sake of truth.
The Progress of Error
By William Cowper0PRO 27:12ROM 12:142CO 8:21PHP 2:41TI 5:8Greek Word Studies for aid_number 35414 delves into the concept of 'respect' (pronoeo), which means to think before, observe in advance, and plan carefully. It involves giving careful thought and consideration to respond appropriately, especially in caring for others and meeting their needs. The idea is to have continuous responsibility and an attitude that motivates one to do the right thing, as seen in Paul's writings to Timothy and the Corinthians.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Providing for honest things - Taking care to act so as not only to be clear in the sight of God, but also to be clear in the sight of all men; avoiding even the appearance of evil. I wish the reader to refer to the excellent note on Co1 16:4 (note), which I have extracted from Dr. Paley.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
The Septuagint (Pro 3:4; Rom 12:17). The oldest manuscripts read, "For we provide." honest things--"things honorable."
John Gill Bible Commentary
And we have sent with him our brother,.... This is a third person sent about this business. The apostle, in this, conformed to the customs of his nation; at least if he did not purposely do it, it agrees with the Jewish canons, which require three persons for the distribution of alms. "The alms dish, (they say (x)) is by three; nor do they appoint "overseers" of it "less than three".'' Again, they say (y), "the poor's chest is collected by two, "but distributed by three"; it is collected by two, because they do not appoint governors over a congregation less than two, and it is distributed by three, even as pecuniary judgments; but the alms dish is collected by three, and distributed by three; for the collection and distribution are alike:'' who this brother was, sent by the apostle with Titus and the other person, is as uncertain as the former. Some think it was Luke, others Apollos, others Timothy, others Sosthenes, others Epaenetus, others Silas, others Zenas the lawyer; a brother he was, and a very considerable character is given of him: whom we have oftentimes proved diligent in many things; he was a very diligent and industrious man, and so fit for this service; he had been tried and proved, and was found to be so, not only once or twice, but oftentimes; and that not in a few instances, but in many; and in nothing did he ever show more diligence than in this matter: but now much more diligent; than ever he had been in anything before: upon the great confidence which I have in you; what doubled and increased this brother's diligence, and made him so eager for, and forward to this work, was, his observing the great confidence the apostle expressed of the very great readiness and liberality of the Corinthians; and which tacitly carries in it an argument exciting them thereunto: or this last clause may be read, "which he hath in you"; and so regards the confidence this brother had in them, which made him so ready to engage with, and join the other messengers. (x) T. Hieros. Peah, fol. 21. 1. (y) Misn. Peah, c. 8. sect. 7. & Jarchi, Maimonides & Bartenora, in ib. T. Bab. Bava Bathra, fol. 8. 2. Maimon. Mattanot Anayim, c. 9. sect. 5.