2 Corinthians 9 1

2 Corinthians 9:1 kjv

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

2 Corinthians 9:1 nkjv

Now concerning the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you;

2 Corinthians 9:1 niv

There is no need for me to write to you about this service to the Lord's people.

2 Corinthians 9:1 esv

Now it is superfluous for me to write to you about the ministry for the saints,

2 Corinthians 9:1 nlt

I really don't need to write to you about this ministry of giving for the believers in Jerusalem.

2 Corinthians 9 verses

2 Corinthians 9 1 Meaning

The Apostle Paul states that he finds it "superfluous" to write to the Corinthian believers regarding their participation in the collection for the "saints" in Jerusalem. This verse marks a rhetorical transition where Paul, despite declaring the unnecessity of writing, proceeds to provide further instructions and encouragement about the offering. His expression of redundancy serves to commend their known eagerness and preparation, motivating them to fulfill their promise of generous giving without needing exhaustive instruction.

2 Corinthians 9 1 Context

This verse stands at the beginning of 2 Corinthians chapter 9, following chapter 8, which introduced the example of the generous Macedonian churches and presented theological motivations for giving. Chapters 8 and 9 together constitute Paul's comprehensive appeal for the "collection for the saints," an offering designated for the impoverished Christians in Jerusalem. Paul's initial plan was for Titus to organize this collection, as mentioned in 2 Cor 8:6. The immediate historical context involves significant economic hardship for the Jewish Christians in Judea, likely compounded by famine and persecution, necessitating support from the predominantly Gentile churches like Corinth. Paul’s strategy here is persuasive, using rhetoric to commend and inspire, rather than strictly command, the Corinthians to fulfill a promise they had made a year prior.

2 Corinthians 9 1 Word analysis

• Now concerning (Περὶ μὲν γὰρ - Peri men gar): This phrase functions as a common Pauline transition, introducing a new but related subject or emphasizing a continuation of the preceding discussion. "Now concerning" indicates that Paul is elaborating on a matter he assumes the Corinthians are already familiar with and committed to, creating an anticipation for further details.
• the ministering (τῆς διακονίας - tēs diakonias): This refers to the act of "service" or "ministry." In this specific context, it denotes the tangible financial aid or charitable contribution for the saints. Diakonia encompasses a broader meaning than mere financial transaction, emphasizing humble, loving service rendered to others, elevating the act of giving beyond a simple donation to a sacred act of fellowship and mutual support within the body of Christ.
• to the saints (τῶν ἁγίων - tōn hagiōn): This refers to the believers in Jerusalem, the fellow members of God's church. The term "saints" (hagioi) identifies them not by their perfection but by their consecration and setting apart by God for His purposes, signifying a sacred bond among all believers that transcends geographical and ethnic boundaries. This designation reminds the Corinthians of the spiritual family they are supporting.
• it is superfluous (περισσόν ἐστίν - perisson estin): The Greek perisson means "more than enough," "excessive," or "unnecessary." Paul employs a masterful rhetorical device, expressing that it is unnecessary for him to write about this matter, even as he proceeds to do precisely that. This pretense of unnecessity aims to flatter the Corinthians, affirming their known eagerness and readiness, and thus encourages them to live up to that reputation.
• for me to write to you (μοι γράφειν ὑμῖν - moi graphein hymin): This indicates Paul's personal agency in communication, underscoring his pastoral care and direct involvement in the logistics and spiritual principles of the collection. The phrase emphasizes the personal relationship and direct expectation Paul has for the Corinthian believers regarding this shared ministry.

Words-group by words-group analysis:

• "Now concerning the ministering to the saints": This sets the specific topic—the act of service, likely financial, directed towards their fellow believers in Jerusalem. It underscores the spiritual nature of this benevolent act, framing it as more than just money transfer but a sacred duty within the community of faith. The use of "saints" connects the recipients to their shared identity in Christ.
• "it is superfluous for me to write to you": This phrase reveals Paul's rhetorical approach. He begins by stating he doesn't need to write, subtly commending their past commitment and known eagerness to participate. This technique avoids a direct command, instead appealing to their honor and love for other believers, encouraging them to freely complete their promised offering out of self-motivation rather than compulsion.

2 Corinthians 9 1 Bonus section

Paul's rhetorical maneuver here showcases his deep understanding of human psychology and pastoral care. He acknowledges their known good intentions and past pledges, thereby tapping into their sense of honor and identity. This approach fosters willingness and eagerness, avoiding any perception of obligation or legalism in giving. The very act of declaring writing "superfluous" ironically reinforces the importance of the subject matter by positioning it as something they, as mature believers, should already fully embrace and embody. This introductory verse effectively sets a positive and encouraging tone for the further exhortations on cheerful giving in 2 Corinthians 9:6-15.

2 Corinthians 9 1 Commentary

2 Corinthians 9:1 serves as a masterful piece of apostolic persuasion. Paul uses an apologetic, almost understated, tone to re-engage the Corinthians on the sensitive subject of their pledged financial contribution to the Jerusalem saints. By claiming it's "superfluous" to write, he doesn't actually mean he has nothing more to say, but rather he expresses his confidence in their readiness and character. This rhetorical strategy aims to reinforce their commitment, affirm their reputation for generosity (which he will then leverage by mentioning his boasting to the Macedonians in subsequent verses), and gently nudge them towards completion of the collection without resorting to blunt commands. The term "ministering" highlights the sacredness and relational aspect of giving, transcending mere philanthropy to become an act of grace and shared service within the Christian community. It also implicitly connects back to the theme of "grace" (charis) explored in the preceding chapter. This verse subtly builds an atmosphere of commendation and high expectation, setting the stage for further exhortations regarding the blessings of cheerful and proportional giving.