Verse
Context
God Loves a Cheerful Giver
6Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver.8And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things, at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Not grudgingly, or of necessity - The Jews had in the temple two chests for alms; the one was של תובה of what was necessary, i.e. what the law required, the other was של נרבה of the free-will offerings. To escape perdition some would grudgingly give what necessity obliged them; others would give cheerfully, for the love of God, and through pity to the poor. Of the first, nothing is said; they simply did what the law required. Of the second, much is said; God loves them. The benefit of almsgiving is lost to the giver when he does it with a grumbling heart. And, as he does not do the duty in the spirit of the duty, even the performance of the letter of the law is an abomination in the sight of God. To these two sorts of alms in the temple the apostle most evidently alludes. See Schoettgen.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
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).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Every man according as he purposeth in his heart,.... Which is not to be understood of the quantity, or any set sum he has fixed upon in his mind to give; but of the quality or nature of giving; or of the manner in which he is to give: so let him give; of his own will and free choice, from his very heart; not as directed and forced by others, but according to his own counsel and determination: not grudgingly; or not of grief; with pain and uneasiness of mind, grieving at parting with what is given, reflecting on the persons that move him to it, or on the objects moved for. The Jews (g) reckon this the lowest degree of all in giving alms; "when a man gives to anyone" "with grief", to which the apostle seems to refer: who adds, or of necessity; of force, by coaction, being obliged to it by the influence, example, or commands of superiors; or through the powerful motives, or prevailing entreaties of others; for without these, men, according to their abilities, should give of themselves freely and liberally: for God loveth a cheerful giver; or one that gives , "with a cheerful countenance", as the Jews (h) say; or as elsewhere (i), "with a cheerful heart": their rule is this, "he that doth the commandment, i.e. alms, let him do it , "with a cheerful heart".'' Who looks pleasantly on the person or persons that move him to it, or on the object to whom he gives; who parts with his money willingly, and takes delight in doing good to others; such givers God loves: not that their cheerful beneficence is the cause of his special peculiar love to them in his own heart, which arises from nothing in man, or done by him; but the meaning is, that God does well to such persons; shows his love to them; he lets them know how kindly he takes such acts of theirs, by prospering and succeeding them in their worldly affairs. In the Septuagint in Pro 22:8 are these words, "God blesses a cheerful man, and a giver", which the apostle refers to. (g) Maimon. Mattanot Anayim, c. 10. sect. 14. (h) Maimon. Mattanot Anayim, c. 10. sect. 13. (i) Vajikra Rabba, fol. 174. 1. Parash. 34.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
9:7 It is the spirit of giving that counts, “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” Cheerfulness in giving is contrasted with giving reluctantly (literally out of sorrow) or in response to pressure.
God Loves a Cheerful Giver
6Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver.8And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things, at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Basics) 17. Dead Works
By Zac Poonen5.6K13:01DEU 28:47ISA 64:5MAL 3:10ROM 14:172CO 9:7In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of being a cheerful giver in the eyes of God. He references 2 Corinthians 9:7, which states that God loves a cheerful giver. The preacher also highlights a lesser-known verse in Isaiah 64:5, which emphasizes that God meets with those who rejoice in doing righteousness. The sermon then delves into the concept of dead works, which are works done without love. The preacher explains that love for God should be the foundation of all our actions, as Jesus commanded us to love God with all our heart, soul, and strength. He warns against doing good works out of fear or for personal gain, as God values works done out of love and obedience.
A Widow Who Becomes a Channel of God's Power
By Otto Koning2.8K1:08:30Faith and ProvisionPower Of GodSacrifice for the GospelPRO 11:25MAL 3:10MAT 6:33MAT 10:39LUK 6:38JHN 12:24ACT 20:352CO 9:7PHP 4:191TI 6:18Otto Koning shares a powerful testimony about a widow who, despite her poverty, becomes a channel of God's blessings by committing to give everything above her basic needs to support missionaries. Through her faith and prayers, she experiences miraculous provisions as businessmen in her community prosper due to her intercession, leading her to give even more to missions. Koning emphasizes the principle that those who lose their lives for Christ's sake will find true life, illustrating this through the widow's story and his own experiences in the mission field. He challenges listeners to consider their own willingness to sacrifice for the sake of the Gospel and to trust in God's provision.
Why Church God's Purpose
By Francis Chan1.9K22:47PRO 19:17MAT 6:3LUK 6:38ACT 20:352CO 9:7GAL 6:2PHP 2:4HEB 13:16JAS 2:141JN 3:17This sermon highlights the importance of community and missions, focusing on the impact of supporting and serving others selflessly. It shares stories of partnership with churches in Mexico, the power of collective giving to organizations like Children's Hunger Fund, and the miraculous provision and blessings experienced when prioritizing generosity and missions.
The Hitchhiking Story
By Otto Koning1.9K38:25TestimonyPSA 23:1PSA 37:4PRO 11:25MAT 7:7LUK 6:382CO 9:7PHP 4:19In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of hitchhiking and relying on God's provision. He recounts how he was stranded in Columbus and prayed for a ride to continue his journey. Eventually, a man picked him up and even offered to buy him a meal. The speaker reflects on how God often waits until the last minute to test our faith and see if we will trust Him. He also emphasizes the importance of taking action and being obedient to God's calling.
Encouraging Each Other at the End of the Age
By John Piper1.8K43:04DEU 10:12PSA 100:2ISA 35:10MAT 5:11MAT 13:442CO 9:71TH 4:13This sermon emphasizes the importance of believers coming together in small groups for mutual ministry, encouragement, and prayer. It highlights the need for Christians to stir up one another to love and good works, recognizing that God's commandments are always for our good. The speaker urges the congregation to embrace the joy and blessings found in community, where spiritual gifts are discovered and supernatural blessings are channeled through one another.
Some Things I Have Learnt in 50 Years Part 1
By Zac Poonen1.8K52:21LEV 19:32JOB 36:5JHN 17:232CO 9:7JAS 1:26JAS 3:91PE 2:171PE 3:151JN 2:6This sermon emphasizes four key lessons learned over 50 years as a believer: 1. Understanding God's immense love for us, equal to His love for Jesus, provides security and eradicates insecurity. 2. Embracing honesty before God, acknowledging failures without pretense, is vital for true repentance. 3. Recognizing that God desires cheerful, voluntary obedience, not compelled actions, fosters genuine worship. 4. Treating every human being with dignity, honoring all as made in God's image, reflects true reverence for God and transforms our interactions.
Ephesians (Part 3)
By Les Wheeldon1.5K1:02:01ExpositionalISA 6:8ACT 4:322CO 9:7EPH 1:16COL 1:91TI 5:223JN 1:9In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the recent General Election and the impact it had on the defeated candidate. He emphasizes that in the church, power and authority should not be sought after like in the political realm. The speaker then references the third letter of John in the Bible, highlighting the importance of serving God and living a clean life. He discusses the corruptible nature of human desires and emphasizes the need for a transformation through Jesus Christ. The sermon concludes with a call to discover Christ and allow Him to change and manifest in one's spirit.
The Joys of Christian Giving
By Peter Aceti1.1K1:04:02GivingLUK 6:38ACT 20:322CO 9:7In this sermon, the speaker discusses four parables from Matthew 25 that emphasize the importance of being faithful and responsible in our service to the Lord. The first principle highlighted is the need to plan ahead and think about the future. The speaker also emphasizes the significance of giving to our homes and families, as it reflects our priorities and heart's desires. Additionally, the sermon explores eight areas of Christian giving, including the motive, measure, and method of giving. The overall message encourages believers to develop a plan for giving and to have a mature understanding of receiving and giving in the context of our relationship with God.
The Trumpet Solo
By James A. Stewart1.0K48:12Christian LifeJDG 6:331SA 7:12MAT 6:33ROM 12:12CO 9:71PE 2:9In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Gideon from the book of Judges. He begins by describing how the Midianites, Amalekites, and the children of the East gathered together and pitched in the valley of Jezreel. However, the Spirit of the Lord came upon Gideon, and he blew a trumpet, gathering people to him. The preacher then goes back to the opening verses to provide background on Gideon's calling. He mentions the story of William Carey, an agitator for revival, and Charles Finney, who wrote extensively on revivals of religion. The sermon also includes a personal story of a man who was moved by God to give a generous gift for the Lord's work. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the power of the Holy Spirit and the importance of being obedient to God's calling.
Don't Keep It to Yourself
By Jim Cymbala92717:50Christian LifeECC 3:1ISA 55:11MRK 16:15LUK 24:47ACT 1:81CO 13:42CO 9:7In this sermon, Pastor Symbola encourages believers to be bold in sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes the importance of not keeping the message to ourselves but actively proclaiming it to others. The pastor urges the congregation to be alert and ready to share the gospel at all times, asking God to bring verses to their minds as they speak. He uses the story of four lepers who discovered abundance in a besieged city to illustrate the urgency of sharing the good news. The sermon concludes with a call to prayer for breakthroughs in people's lives and for the raising up of laborers filled with the Holy Spirit to spread the message of Jesus.
May 11, 2003 Pm
By Stephen Fenton82338:19ROM 8:82CO 9:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of generosity and giving in the context of belonging to the Lord. He encourages listeners to let the spirit of Jesus direct them in how to use their money. The speaker shares a personal story about visiting a sick woman in the hospital and how even a short visit made a significant impact on her. He highlights the need for transparency in church giving and references the example of Jesus' generosity and sacrifice.
Financial Crisis
By George Verwer7681:28:58PRO 4:23MAT 6:331CO 16:22CO 9:7EPH 6:12PHP 4:19JAS 1:17The video is a sermon transcript discussing the financial struggles faced by Operation Mobilization (OM), a missionary organization. The speaker shares his personal struggles and questions regarding OM's financial policy and practice. He emphasizes the need for prayer and counsel from listeners. The speaker mentions a recent Area Leaders Conference where issues were discussed and decisions were made for the future of OM.
The Harvest Is Now (Dutch)
By K.P. Yohannan7411:00:21MAT 4:19MAT 9:36MAT 10:16ROM 10:152CO 9:7PHP 2:3JAS 1:271JN 3:18REV 7:9This sermon emphasizes the call to follow Jesus and live a life of compassion and service, focusing on the urgency of reaching the lost and suffering in the world. It challenges listeners to pray earnestly for unreached nations, live simply, consider dedicating their lives to missions, and support native missionaries in sharing the gospel in difficult regions.
Freedom From Serving Money
By Zac Poonen56040:00MAT 1:21MAT 6:19MAT 6:24LUK 16:13JHN 3:16ACT 17:302CO 9:7EPH 2:8PHP 4:19This sermon emphasizes the importance of not letting money become a master in our lives, but rather to view it as a servant. It addresses the deception in some preachers who prioritize money over true spiritual growth, highlighting the need to seek God's kingdom and righteousness above all else. The message stresses the significance of being saved from sin, not just forgiven, and encourages believers to live in a way that glorifies God and builds a testimony of faithfulness.
(Christian History) 13. the Reformation in Germany
By David Guzik47400:00MAT 6:33ROM 3:232CO 9:7EPH 2:81TI 6:10JAS 2:151PE 5:2In this sermon, the speaker discusses the early life of Martin Luther and his role as a university lecturer and parish priest in Wittenberg, Germany. However, it was Luther's heart as a pastor and Bible teacher that sparked the controversy that led to the Reformation. The controversy centered around the sale of indulgences, which were believed to absolve the spiritual penalty of sin but not the temporal penalty. The speaker explains the Roman Catholic doctrine of purgatory and how it was seen as a way to reconcile the discrepancy between those who followed the sacraments but lived ungodly lives.
More & More 10.7.1988
By George Verwer45841:59Christian LifeMAT 6:33ROM 12:21CO 16:142CO 9:7PHP 1:6PHP 1:91TH 5:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the need for more discipline in the lives of believers. He encourages the audience to have more love, more vision, and more discipline in their faith and actions. The speaker also highlights the lack of generous giving among God's people and calls for a visionary and sacrificial approach to giving. He urges the audience to consider dedicating two years of their lives to serving God and mentions specific needs for accountants and motor mechanics in their ministry work.
7 Types of Eternal Rewards
By Mike Bickle1959:39Heart ResponsesEternal RewardsMAT 6:20MAT 25:211CO 3:81CO 15:412CO 9:7JAS 1:121PE 1:7REV 2:10REV 3:5REV 3:12Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of eternal rewards in his sermon '7 Types of Eternal Rewards,' explaining that our choices and actions in this life directly impact the rewards we will receive in the age to come. He highlights that Jesus spoke extensively about these rewards, which include various forms of glory, authority, and praise from God, and that they are based on our heart responses rather than our abilities. Bickle encourages believers to consider their daily decisions and acts of righteousness, as these will be recognized and rewarded by God, ultimately leading to a deeper communion with Him. He reassures that every small act of service and humility matters and will be remembered, urging listeners to live with an eternal perspective.
What Does Consecration Mean?
By Andrew Murray3StewardshipConsecration1CH 29:14PSA 24:1ROM 12:12CO 9:7JAS 1:17Andrew Murray explores the profound meaning of consecration, emphasizing that it is a divine privilege to return to God what is inherently His. He reflects on David's prayer in I Chronicles 29:14, highlighting that all we possess comes from God, and our ability to give back is a miracle of grace. Murray outlines four key insights: God's ownership of all, our dependence on Him, the honor of giving back, and the joy God experiences when we return what He has given us. He encourages believers to apply these truths to their lives, encompassing their wealth, property, and entire being.
Owe No Man Anything
By William MacDonald2Christian LoveFinancial ResponsibilityPRO 22:7MAT 6:24LUK 14:28ROM 1:14ROM 13:82CO 9:7PHP 4:191TI 6:10HEB 13:51JN 3:16William MacDonald emphasizes the importance of financial responsibility in his sermon 'Owe No Man Anything,' interpreting Romans 13:8 to mean that while some debts are unavoidable, Christians must avoid unnecessary debt and live within their means. He warns against the dangers of overspending, borrowing for depreciating assets, and the consequences of financial irresponsibility, which can harm one's testimony as a Christian. MacDonald highlights that the only debt Christians should maintain is the obligation to love one another, which fulfills the law and strengthens community bonds.
A Few Good Women Luke 8:1-3; 10:38-42
By David Servant2PRO 3:9MAT 6:21MRK 12:41LUK 8:2LUK 10:38LUK 16:132CO 9:7COL 3:231TI 2:12David Servant preaches about the diverse group of women who were among the first recruits for Jesus' army, highlighting their past struggles, deliverance, and dedication to supporting Christ's cause financially. He emphasizes the importance of true followers of Christ giving generously to support His work, using examples of Joanna and Mary Magdalene. David Servant also discusses the story of Mary and Martha, illustrating the significance of prioritizing spiritual food over physical tasks, especially in the presence of God Himself.
On the Danger of Increasing Riches
By John Wesley1StewardshipWealthPSA 62:10PRO 11:24ECC 5:10MAT 6:19MAT 19:24LUK 12:152CO 9:71TI 6:9JAS 5:11JN 2:15John Wesley warns about the spiritual dangers associated with increasing wealth, emphasizing that riches can lead to a heart that is set on material possessions rather than on God. He explains that true riches are not merely about monetary wealth but about the ability to do good and help others. Wesley urges individuals to examine their hearts and ensure that their increasing wealth does not lead to covetousness or a false sense of security. He encourages generosity and warns against hoarding wealth, reminding listeners that they are stewards of God's gifts. Ultimately, Wesley calls for a life of giving and serving, rather than one focused on accumulating wealth.
Consecration
By Andrew Murray1Surrender to GodConsecration1CH 29:14PSA 24:1MAT 6:33LUK 6:38ROM 12:12CO 8:122CO 9:7PHP 4:19JAS 1:171PE 4:10Andrew Murray emphasizes the profound mystery of consecration, illustrating that all we have comes from God, and thus, we are called to willingly give back to Him what is already His. He outlines four key thoughts: God is the ultimate Owner and Giver, we are designed to be receivers of His grace, it is our privilege to return what we receive, and God delights in our offerings. Murray encourages believers to recognize their dependence on God, to live in a state of continual receiving, and to joyfully surrender all aspects of their lives to Him. The sermon culminates in a call to consecrate not just our lives but everything we possess, trusting that God will bless our surrender and use it for His Kingdom.
What a Happy Year It Will Be
By Zac Poonen1LEV 25:8DEU 25:1MAT 10:8LUK 6:36JHN 7:382CO 9:7EPH 4:32COL 3:13Zac Poonen preaches about the significance of the Sabbath years and the year of jubilee in the Old Covenant, emphasizing the joy and blessing that came from the cancellation of debts and the release of debtors. Under the new covenant, every day is to be celebrated as a Sabbath day and every year as a year of jubilee, where we are called to release and forgive others just as God has forgiven us, living a life of gratitude for the forgiveness received through Calvary's cross.
Consecration -- All or None
By George Kulp1GEN 19:26EXO 10:26PSA 119:130PRO 3:9MAT 6:24JHN 20:31ROM 15:42CO 9:7PHP 4:192TI 3:16George Kulp preaches on the importance of not compromising one's principles or truth, drawing lessons from history to emphasize the dangers of compromising. He highlights the need for complete and total prohibition of sin, using examples from the past to show that moral questions must be settled right. Kulp encourages believers to trust in God's timing and to resist the temptation to compromise, stressing the significance of complete consecration to God in every aspect of life.
What Makes a Man Truly Spiritual?
By Zac Poonen1PSA 73:25ISA 6:1MAT 5:23LUK 10:30ACT 10:38ACT 24:162CO 4:102CO 9:71TH 5:211TI 6:5Zac Poonen preaches on what makes a man truly spiritual, emphasizing the importance of looking upward in worship and devotion to God, inward in acknowledging and repenting of unChristlikeness, and outward in seeking to help and bless others. A spiritual man longs for fellowship with God more than anything else, humbles himself constantly, and seeks to do good deeds hidden from man's eyes. He judges himself, keeps his conscience clear, and dies inwardly daily to hindrances. Additionally, a spiritual man forgives readily, is filled with compassion for others, and seeks to serve and bless without expecting anything in return.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Not grudgingly, or of necessity - The Jews had in the temple two chests for alms; the one was של תובה of what was necessary, i.e. what the law required, the other was של נרבה of the free-will offerings. To escape perdition some would grudgingly give what necessity obliged them; others would give cheerfully, for the love of God, and through pity to the poor. Of the first, nothing is said; they simply did what the law required. Of the second, much is said; God loves them. The benefit of almsgiving is lost to the giver when he does it with a grumbling heart. And, as he does not do the duty in the spirit of the duty, even the performance of the letter of the law is an abomination in the sight of God. To these two sorts of alms in the temple the apostle most evidently alludes. See Schoettgen.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
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).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Every man according as he purposeth in his heart,.... Which is not to be understood of the quantity, or any set sum he has fixed upon in his mind to give; but of the quality or nature of giving; or of the manner in which he is to give: so let him give; of his own will and free choice, from his very heart; not as directed and forced by others, but according to his own counsel and determination: not grudgingly; or not of grief; with pain and uneasiness of mind, grieving at parting with what is given, reflecting on the persons that move him to it, or on the objects moved for. The Jews (g) reckon this the lowest degree of all in giving alms; "when a man gives to anyone" "with grief", to which the apostle seems to refer: who adds, or of necessity; of force, by coaction, being obliged to it by the influence, example, or commands of superiors; or through the powerful motives, or prevailing entreaties of others; for without these, men, according to their abilities, should give of themselves freely and liberally: for God loveth a cheerful giver; or one that gives , "with a cheerful countenance", as the Jews (h) say; or as elsewhere (i), "with a cheerful heart": their rule is this, "he that doth the commandment, i.e. alms, let him do it , "with a cheerful heart".'' Who looks pleasantly on the person or persons that move him to it, or on the object to whom he gives; who parts with his money willingly, and takes delight in doing good to others; such givers God loves: not that their cheerful beneficence is the cause of his special peculiar love to them in his own heart, which arises from nothing in man, or done by him; but the meaning is, that God does well to such persons; shows his love to them; he lets them know how kindly he takes such acts of theirs, by prospering and succeeding them in their worldly affairs. In the Septuagint in Pro 22:8 are these words, "God blesses a cheerful man, and a giver", which the apostle refers to. (g) Maimon. Mattanot Anayim, c. 10. sect. 14. (h) Maimon. Mattanot Anayim, c. 10. sect. 13. (i) Vajikra Rabba, fol. 174. 1. Parash. 34.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
9:7 It is the spirit of giving that counts, “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” Cheerfulness in giving is contrasted with giving reluctantly (literally out of sorrow) or in response to pressure.