Devine Scripture

2 Corinthians 9:2

What does 2 Corinthians 9:2 mean?

A plain-English look at 2 Corinthians 9:2 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What 2 Corinthians 9:2 means

Paul knows their eagerness to give and has proudly told the Macedonians that Achaia (their region) was ready a year ago. Their enthusiasm sparked others to join in. Their example became contagious; zeal begets zeal. By reminding them of this, Paul both encourages them and gently holds them accountable to complete what inspired others. He frames generosity as a witness that stirs the wider church. Their early readiness now needs follow-through, not only for the relief of the saints but also to confirm the good reputation that has already encouraged many believers beyond Corinth.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

for I know your readiness, of which I glory on your behalf to them of Macedonia, that Achaia hath been prepared for a year past; and your zeal hath stirred up very many of them.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

For I know the forwardness of your mind, for which I boast of you to them of Macedonia, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal hath provoked very many.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

for I know your readiness, of which I glory on your behalf to them of Macedonia, that Achaia hath been prepared for a year past; and your zeal hath stirred up very many of them.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

For I have before made clear to those of Macedonia my pride in your ready mind, saying to them that Achaia has been ready for a year back; and a great number have been moved to do the same by your example.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

for I have known your readiness of mind, which in your behalf I boast of to Macedonians, that Achaia hath been prepared a year ago, and the zeal of you did stir up the more part,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

For I know your forward mind: for which I boast of you to the Macedonians, that Achaia also is ready from the year past. And your emulation hath provoked very many.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

For I know your readiness, which I boast of as respects you to Macedonians, that Achaia is prepared since a year ago, and the zeal [reported] of you has stimulated the mass [of the brethren].

Context

Having affirmed their knowledge of the ministry, Paul recalls how their readiness influenced the Macedonians. This praise establishes why the upcoming arrangements matter: public confidence has built around Corinth’s promise. The next verses explain Paul’s practical steps to ensure their intention matures into a timely, orderly gift. He will send brethren ahead to help finalize the collection, so that neither he nor the Corinthians are embarrassed if visitors from Macedonia see them unprepared. Thus, the narrative moves from commendation to coordination.

v.1For as touching the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you:

v.2This passage

v.3But I have sent the brethren, that our glorying on your behalf may not be made void in this respect; that, even as I said, ye may be prepared:

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • 2 Corinthians 8:8

    I speak not by way of commandment, but as proving through the earnestness of others the sincerity also of your love.

  • 1 Corinthians 16:15

    Now I beseech you, brethren (ye know the house of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have set themselves to minister unto the saints),

  • 2 Corinthians 8:24

    Show ye therefore unto them in the face of the churches the proof of your love, and of our glorying on your behalf.

  • Hebrews 10:24

    and let us consider one another to provoke unto love and good works;

  • 2 Corinthians 8:10

    And herein I give my judgment: for this is expedient for you, who were the first to make a beginning a year ago, not only to do, but also to will.

  • 2 Corinthians 1:1

    Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus through the will of God, and Timothy our brother, unto the church of God which is at Corinth, with all the saints that are in the whole of Achaia:

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