Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift - Some contend that Christ only is here intended; others, that the almsgiving is meant. After all the difference of commentators and preachers, it is most evident that the ανεκδιηγητος δωρεα, unspeakable gift, is precisely the same with the ὑπερβαλλουση χαρις, superabounding grace or benefit, of the preceding verse. If therefore Jesus Christ, the gift of God s unbounded love to man, be the meaning of the unspeakable gift in this verse, he is also intended by the superabounding grace in the preceding. But it is most evident that it is the work of Christ in them, and not Christ himself, which is intended in the 14th verse (Co2 9:14); and consequently, that it is the same work, not the operator, which is referred to in this last verse. A Few farther observations may be necessary on the conclusion of this chapter. 1. Jesus Christ, the gift of God's love to mankind, is an unspeakable blessing; no man can conceive, much less declare, how great this gift is; for these things the angels desire to look into. Therefore he may be well called the unspeakable gift, as he is the highest God ever gave or can give to man; though this is not the meaning of the last verse. 2. The conversion of a soul from darkness to light, from sin to holiness, from Satan to God, is not less inconceivable. It is called a new creation, and creative energy cannot be comprehended. To have the grace of God to rule the heart, subduing all things to itself and filling the soul with the Divine nature, is an unspeakable blessing; and the energy that produced it is an unspeakable gift. I conclude, therefore, that it is the work of Christ in the soul, and not Christ himself, that the apostle terms the superabounding or exceeding great grace, and the unspeakable gift; and Dr. Whitby's paraphrase may be safely admitted as giving the true sense of the passage. "Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift: i.e. this admirable charity (proceeding from the work of Christ in the soul) by which God is so much glorified, the Gospel receives such credit, others are so much benefited, and you will be by God so plentifully rewarded." This is the sober sense of the passage; and no other meaning can comport with it. The passage itself is a grand proof that every good disposition in the soul of man comes from God; and it explodes the notion of natural good, i.e. good which God does not work, which is absurd; for no effect can exist without a cause; and God being the fountain of good, all that can be called good must come immediately from himself. See Jam 1:17. 3. Most men can see the hand of God in the dispensations of his justice, and yet these very seldom appear. How is it that they cannot equally see his hand in the dispensations of his mercy, which are great, striking, and unremitting? Our afflictions we scarcely ever forget; our mercies we scarcely ever remember! Our hearts are alive to complaint, but dead to gratitude. We have had ten thousand mercies for one judgment, and yet our complaints to our thanksgivings have been ten thousand to one! How is it that God endures this, and bears with us? Ask his own eternal clemency; and ask the Mediator before the throne. The mystery of our preservation and salvation can be there alone explained.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
his unspeakable gift--the gift of His own Son, which includes all other inferior gifts (Co2 8:9; Rom 8:32). If we have received from God "His unspeakable gift," what great thing is it, if we give a few perishing gifts for His sake? Next: 2 Corinthians Chapter 10
John Gill Bible Commentary
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, who is to be sure "the unspeakable gift" of God; who, though his Son, his own Son, his only begotten Son, the Son of his love, his Son and heir, yet he gave him to be a covenant to the people, the head of his church, the Saviour of sinners, and to be a sacrifice in their room and stead: none can tell how great this gift is, which is so suitable and seasonable, so large and comprehensive, nor declare the love both of the Father and the Son, expressed in it. Thankful we should be for it; and our thankfulness should be shown by highly prizing and valuing this gift; by laying the whole stress of our salvation on Christ; by ascribing all the glory of it to him; by giving up ourselves to him, and to his interest; by walking worthy of him in all well pleasing, and by communicating to the support of his cause, and the supply of his poor ministers and members. And thus the apostle tacitly suggests one of the strongest arguments that can be used, to stir up the saints to generosity and liberality, taken from the wonderful grace of God in the gift of his Son; for if he of his free grace, and unmerited love, has given his Son to, and for his people, and with him all things freely, both the riches of grace and glory, then they ought freely and bountifully to communicate temporal good things to the poor members of Christ, for whom God and Christ have an equal love, as for themselves. Next: 2 Corinthians Chapter 10
God Loves a Cheerful Giver
14And their prayers for you will express their affection for you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you.15Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Fit or Misfit? (Part 9): The Gift of Giving
By Richard Sipley97354:51JHN 12:3ROM 12:82CO 6:22CO 9:112CO 9:132CO 9:15JAS 4:14In this sermon, the preacher discusses the motivational gift of giving, as mentioned in Romans 12:8. He shares a personal experience of encountering a church member with the gift of giving, who was wealthy and successful in his business. The preacher emphasizes the importance of giving with generosity, as instructed by God. He also references a parable told by Jesus about a man with the gift of giving, who showed compassion and took care of a wounded man. The sermon highlights the significance of recognizing and utilizing the gift of giving in serving others.
Into the All Sufficiency of Christ #4 - Ministry
By Ed Miller92255:48GEN 1:1JER 23:18MAT 6:332CO 8:92CO 9:62CO 9:15In this sermon, the Apostle Paul emphasizes the principle that ministry must flow out of poverty. He uses the example of the Macedonians, who gave generously despite their own poverty. The main point is not about money or stewardship, but about illustrating the principle of giving and overflow. The sermon also highlights the ultimate example of giving in the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, who became poor so that we might become rich. The passage in 2 Corinthians 8-9 emphasizes that in real ministry, only God and Jesus are the true givers.
Thanks Be to God for His Indescribable Gift
By Richard Sipley87937:31MAT 6:33ROM 8:322CO 9:15EPH 2:8JAS 1:17In this sermon, the speaker begins by emphasizing the true meaning of Christmas as the worship of Christ. He encourages the congregation to open their Bibles to 2nd Corinthians 9:15, which states, "Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift." The speaker reminisces about his childhood and how, despite having little money, his family celebrated Christmas with joy. He shares a favorite memory of receiving a small truck as a gift and the excitement it brought. The sermon highlights the joy and wonder of receiving gifts, but ultimately emphasizes that the greatest gift of all is God's indescribable gift of Jesus Christ.
He Is
By Michael Koulianos3320:48Identity of ChristJesusRelationship with JesusMAT 3:17JHN 10:9JHN 11:25JHN 14:6JHN 15:1ACT 5:302CO 9:15COL 3:4HEB 10:5REV 1:8Michael Koulianos passionately proclaims the multifaceted identity of Jesus Christ, emphasizing His roles as the suffering Savior, the great evangelist, and the living Word. He reflects on the profound significance of Christ's sacrifice and resurrection, urging the church to return to its first love and recognize Jesus as the ultimate source of life and truth. Koulianos highlights that Jesus is not only our mediator and offering but also the embodiment of God's love and the fulfillment of Scripture. He calls believers to embrace the reality of Christ's presence within them, encouraging a deeper relationship with the Lord who is both the way and the truth. Ultimately, he reminds the congregation that Jesus is the answer to every need and the foundation of their faith.
"Look . . . and Live" (Numbers 21:8)
By Anne Ortlund1NUM 21:8MAT 11:28MRK 5:36JHN 3:142CO 9:151TI 2:5HEB 10:221PE 3:18Anne Ortlund preaches about the powerful symbolism of Jesus being lifted up like the bronze snake in the desert, emphasizing that by believing in Him, we receive eternal life. She highlights the approachable and tender nature of Jesus, inviting us to come to Him without fear but with faith. Anne encourages us to fix our eyes on Jesus, the ultimate Healer and Savior, who brings us closer to God and offers us the gift of salvation through His sacrifice.
Detailing the "Everything"
By A.W. Tozer0GratitudeAcknowledging GodPSA 100:4PSA 107:1PSA 136:1LUK 17:152CO 9:15EPH 5:20PHP 4:6COL 3:171TH 5:18JAS 1:17A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of tracing our blessings back to their true source, God, rather than expressing vague gratitude. He reflects on an old couple who, despite not being Christians, showed genuine thankfulness for their lives, yet their gratitude lacked a direct recipient. Tozer contrasts this with modern individuals who express joy without acknowledging God, highlighting a common fear of openly directing gratitude to Him. He suggests that many people, like Adam, hide from God due to shame or fear of judgment, leading to a generalization of their thankfulness instead of a personal acknowledgment. Ultimately, Tozer calls for a more intentional and personal expression of gratitude towards God.
God's Gift of His Son
By Andrew Murray0God's LoveThe Gift of JesusMAT 11:28JHN 3:16JHN 14:6ROM 8:322CO 9:15EPH 1:3PHP 4:19COL 2:9HEB 7:251JN 5:12Andrew Murray emphasizes the profound love of God in giving His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, to humanity. This gift is not merely a blessing but the very essence of life and salvation, as Jesus embodies all that we need for forgiveness, guidance, and eternal life. Murray encourages believers to fully embrace and possess this gift, reminding them that Jesus is always available to meet their needs and strengthen their faith. He urges young Christians to recognize the importance of daily receiving and relying on Jesus, who is their wisdom, light, and king. Ultimately, the sermon celebrates the unspeakable gift of Jesus, urging believers to take Him into their lives wholeheartedly.
Christ, Gods Best Gift to Man.
By Edward Payson0The Gift of ChristGratitudeJHN 3:16ROM 5:82CO 9:15EPH 2:8Edward Payson emphasizes the profound significance of Jesus Christ as God's greatest gift to humanity, urging believers to reflect on their gratitude towards this unspeakable gift. He contrasts the indifference of modern Christians with the fervent appreciation of early believers, highlighting that even in dire circumstances, one should find reasons to thank God for Christ. Payson argues that Christ's worth is immeasurable and that His gift is freely given, without any obligation on God's part, making it a true expression of divine love. He calls for a heartfelt response of gratitude, reminding the congregation that acknowledging this gift is essential for spiritual fulfillment and joy. Ultimately, he encourages all to embrace and celebrate the gift of Christ, leading to a life of continuous thanksgiving.
Letters: Mrs. Manson (1)
By Andrew Bonar0Waiting On GodContentment in MinistryPSA 27:14ISA 40:31ROM 8:282CO 9:15PHP 4:11Andrew Bonar writes to Mrs. Manson, expressing gratitude for her letter and sharing thoughts on the nature of ministerial work. He encourages Mr. Manson to find contentment in waiting on the Lord, emphasizing that even in inactivity, one can serve God. Bonar reminds them that God's love should be judged by His eternal gift rather than by fluctuating feelings. He draws a parallel between Mr. Manson's situation and historical figures like Wycliffe and Luther, suggesting that there is purpose in their current circumstances. Bonar concludes with a light-hearted note about Mr. Manson's lack of communication and requests prayer for their ministry.
Living in God's Presence
By Mary Wilder Tileston0PSA 91:1PSA 112:32CO 9:15JAS 4:81JN 3:2Mary Wilder Tileston preaches about the significance of dwelling in the secret place of the Most High and abiding under the shadow of the Almighty, emphasizing the need to be in God's presence continually. Charles Wesley's hymn expresses the surrender of one's soul and all powers to God, dedicating every moment to Him. William R. Huntington encourages seeking God's guidance and following His convictions faithfully, leading to a deep realization of His love and a sense of duty. Charles H. Brent highlights the importance of consciously being with God to become more like Him by seeking His face and presence.
Biblical Principles of Christian Giving
By Colin Peckham02CH 31:21MAT 6:3MAT 25:21MRK 12:441CO 4:21CO 16:22CO 5:102CO 8:122CO 9:72CO 9:15EPH 5:3Colin Peckham emphasizes that Christian giving is an act of worship and thanksgiving to God, reflecting the believer's devotion and loyalty. The sermon highlights the importance of giving systematically, proportionately, individually, cheerfully, wholeheartedly, sacrificially, willingly, purposefully, faithfully, responsibly, generously, secretly, honestly, gratefully, and accountably, stressing the need for genuine motives and heartfelt surrender to Christ in stewardship.
His Hand Is Always in His Purse
By Thomas Brooks0Divine GenerosityThe Purity of Christ's GiftsPSA 84:11ISA 61:3MAT 7:11JHN 10:10ROM 8:322CO 9:15EPH 1:3PHP 4:19JAS 1:171PE 5:7Thomas Brooks emphasizes the contrast between the gifts of Christ and those of the world, noting that while the world gives infrequently and often with impurities, Christ continuously bestows pure and royal favors upon His people. He reassures the troubled with peace, the guilty with pardon, and the mourners with comfort, illustrating that His generosity is constant and abundant. Brooks highlights that Christ's gifts are of the highest quality, free from the dross and poison found in worldly offerings, making them truly valuable and pure.
Of Thankfulness to God.
By John Gill0Gratitude to GodThankfulnessPSA 68:19PSA 100:3MAT 11:25LUK 17:15ROM 1:82CO 9:15EPH 5:20PHP 4:61TH 5:181PE 1:3John Gill emphasizes the vital role of thankfulness in the life of a believer, asserting that true thankfulness stems from a heart of contentment and godliness. He explains that thankfulness should be directed towards God for both temporal and spiritual mercies, highlighting the importance of recognizing God's grace in all circumstances, whether in prosperity or adversity. Gill encourages believers to express gratitude for the gift of life, health, and the blessings of grace, including redemption and adoption, as well as the means of grace such as the gospel and the ministry. He concludes that thankfulness is not only a command from God but also a reflection of our relationship with Him, urging believers to cultivate a habit of gratitude in every aspect of their lives.
Homily 12 on Matthew
By St. John Chrysostom0GEN 3:19MAT 3:14JHN 13:7ACT 2:21CO 14:222CO 9:15John Chrysostom preaches on the baptism of Jesus, emphasizing the humility and exaltation displayed by Christ in being baptized by John. He explains how the heavens opened, the Spirit descended like a dove, and a voice proclaimed Jesus as the beloved Son of God, highlighting the significance of this event. Chrysostom urges believers to live a life worthy of their heavenly citizenship, focusing on storing up treasures in heaven rather than on earth, to avoid the punishment of clinging to worldly possessions. He warns against the folly of prioritizing earthly wealth over spiritual riches, emphasizing the need to break free from the chains of greed and set our sights on eternal blessings.
Able to Save
By J.C. Ryle0Assurance of SalvationIntercession of ChristPSA 23:4JHN 14:6ROM 8:342CO 9:15EPH 3:19COL 1:192TI 1:12HEB 7:251JN 2:1REV 1:18J.C. Ryle emphasizes the centrality of Jesus Christ in the Christian faith, particularly focusing on His intercessory role. He describes true Christians as those who come to God through Christ, highlighting that Jesus continually intercedes for believers, ensuring their salvation and comfort. Ryle reassures that Christ's intercession is a source of strength against sin, weakness, and trials, and that it guarantees believers' perseverance and ultimate salvation. He encourages readers to approach God with confidence, knowing that Christ's sacrifice and ongoing intercession secure their relationship with the Father. The sermon concludes with a call to recognize the living Christ who intercedes for us, providing hope and assurance for the future.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift - Some contend that Christ only is here intended; others, that the almsgiving is meant. After all the difference of commentators and preachers, it is most evident that the ανεκδιηγητος δωρεα, unspeakable gift, is precisely the same with the ὑπερβαλλουση χαρις, superabounding grace or benefit, of the preceding verse. If therefore Jesus Christ, the gift of God s unbounded love to man, be the meaning of the unspeakable gift in this verse, he is also intended by the superabounding grace in the preceding. But it is most evident that it is the work of Christ in them, and not Christ himself, which is intended in the 14th verse (Co2 9:14); and consequently, that it is the same work, not the operator, which is referred to in this last verse. A Few farther observations may be necessary on the conclusion of this chapter. 1. Jesus Christ, the gift of God's love to mankind, is an unspeakable blessing; no man can conceive, much less declare, how great this gift is; for these things the angels desire to look into. Therefore he may be well called the unspeakable gift, as he is the highest God ever gave or can give to man; though this is not the meaning of the last verse. 2. The conversion of a soul from darkness to light, from sin to holiness, from Satan to God, is not less inconceivable. It is called a new creation, and creative energy cannot be comprehended. To have the grace of God to rule the heart, subduing all things to itself and filling the soul with the Divine nature, is an unspeakable blessing; and the energy that produced it is an unspeakable gift. I conclude, therefore, that it is the work of Christ in the soul, and not Christ himself, that the apostle terms the superabounding or exceeding great grace, and the unspeakable gift; and Dr. Whitby's paraphrase may be safely admitted as giving the true sense of the passage. "Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift: i.e. this admirable charity (proceeding from the work of Christ in the soul) by which God is so much glorified, the Gospel receives such credit, others are so much benefited, and you will be by God so plentifully rewarded." This is the sober sense of the passage; and no other meaning can comport with it. The passage itself is a grand proof that every good disposition in the soul of man comes from God; and it explodes the notion of natural good, i.e. good which God does not work, which is absurd; for no effect can exist without a cause; and God being the fountain of good, all that can be called good must come immediately from himself. See Jam 1:17. 3. Most men can see the hand of God in the dispensations of his justice, and yet these very seldom appear. How is it that they cannot equally see his hand in the dispensations of his mercy, which are great, striking, and unremitting? Our afflictions we scarcely ever forget; our mercies we scarcely ever remember! Our hearts are alive to complaint, but dead to gratitude. We have had ten thousand mercies for one judgment, and yet our complaints to our thanksgivings have been ten thousand to one! How is it that God endures this, and bears with us? Ask his own eternal clemency; and ask the Mediator before the throne. The mystery of our preservation and salvation can be there alone explained.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
his unspeakable gift--the gift of His own Son, which includes all other inferior gifts (Co2 8:9; Rom 8:32). If we have received from God "His unspeakable gift," what great thing is it, if we give a few perishing gifts for His sake? Next: 2 Corinthians Chapter 10
John Gill Bible Commentary
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, who is to be sure "the unspeakable gift" of God; who, though his Son, his own Son, his only begotten Son, the Son of his love, his Son and heir, yet he gave him to be a covenant to the people, the head of his church, the Saviour of sinners, and to be a sacrifice in their room and stead: none can tell how great this gift is, which is so suitable and seasonable, so large and comprehensive, nor declare the love both of the Father and the Son, expressed in it. Thankful we should be for it; and our thankfulness should be shown by highly prizing and valuing this gift; by laying the whole stress of our salvation on Christ; by ascribing all the glory of it to him; by giving up ourselves to him, and to his interest; by walking worthy of him in all well pleasing, and by communicating to the support of his cause, and the supply of his poor ministers and members. And thus the apostle tacitly suggests one of the strongest arguments that can be used, to stir up the saints to generosity and liberality, taken from the wonderful grace of God in the gift of his Son; for if he of his free grace, and unmerited love, has given his Son to, and for his people, and with him all things freely, both the riches of grace and glory, then they ought freely and bountifully to communicate temporal good things to the poor members of Christ, for whom God and Christ have an equal love, as for themselves. Next: 2 Corinthians Chapter 10