As Paul encouraged those at Corinth to willingly follow through on the giving they had earlier committed to (2 Corinthians 9:1-5) for the purpose of helping needy saints in Judea (1 Corinthians 16:1-3; 2 Corinthians 9:1), he ultimately noted — as a foundation for generosity — what they had received by the willing gift of another. That is the gift they had received by Christ’s giving of Himself on the cross on their behalf.
We read. . .
“(12) For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God. (13) By their approval of this service, they will glorify God because of your submission that comes from your confession of the gospel of Christ, and the generosity of your contribution for them and for all others, (14) while they long for you and pray for you, because of the surpassing grace of God upon you. (15) Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift!” (2 Corinthians 9:12-15 ESV)
In the receiving of their gift, overflowing thanks would be given to God. This was to naturally stem from their own thanksgiving for the surpassing grace of God.
As we remember grace is not something earned — otherwise it would not be grace (Romans 11:6) — but is God’s gift to us through Christ, do we find it difficult to fully express our thanks for it? Jesus emptied Himself (Philippians 2:7-8) and became poor so that through Him we could become rich (2 Corinthians 8:9) in the blessings that are ours through Him. Though our own generosity can be a means of giving thanks, it does not even come close to the gift we have received in Christ! That provision of the Son is to encourage a trust in God for all else He is willing to provide. (i.e. Romans 8:32) Therefore, though we might not be able to adequately verbally express our thanks for the awesome gift of redemption by grace, the confession of the good news of Jesus by the manner in which we live compelled by it (i.e. Titus 2:11-14) can powerfully express how thankful we truly are. May our life be lived in thanksgiving for this inexpressible gift!
Have a great day THANKFUL FOR THE MOST ADEQUATE GIFT!
Carl
