Today's passage: 2 Corinthians 8:16-24
Helpful thoughts:
- After encouraging the church to give toward the needs of the church in Jerusalem, Paul lets them know who is coming to minister to them as a part of the collection of this gift.
- The men going were Titus and two others (At least 3 total):
- One of them was a great preacher of the gospel.
- With all that is being discussed in this passage, the church needed gospel-centered ministry!
- One of them had been tested and was earnest for the ministry.
- One of them was a great preacher of the gospel.
- The goal was to bring ministry to the church at Corinth (And others) while asking for help on behalf of the church in Jerusalem. They were going out raising support.
- The number of men traveling together also provided accountability and safety for the amount of money that would be traveling across the region back to Jerusalem.
- Churches were working together to accomplish this ministry (Verse 19).
- Individual local churches were to decide for themselves what they might give.
- An example of the autonomy of local churches, while still cooperating in fellowship.
- The men going were Titus and two others (At least 3 total):
Questions to consider:
- In what ways does what we read in this passage remind you of missions/ministry support raising still today? In what ways is this kind of giving still done?
- This passage certainly doesn't forbid individual giving toward missions, churches or other ministries, but what are some special benefits of giving toward ministries together as a church (For the church and for the one(s) receiving the gift?
- In what ways can churches be strengthened when they work together? What are the benefits of a fellowship of churches?