2 Corinthians 9 12

2 Corinthians 9:12 kjv

For the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God;

2 Corinthians 9:12 nkjv

For the administration of this service not only supplies the needs of the saints, but also is abounding through many thanksgivings to God,

2 Corinthians 9:12 niv

This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord's people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God.

2 Corinthians 9:12 esv

For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God.

2 Corinthians 9:12 nlt

So two good things will result from this ministry of giving ? the needs of the believers in Jerusalem will be met, and they will joyfully express their thanks to God.

2 Corinthians 9 verses

2 Corinthians 9 12 Meaning

This verse emphasizes that the generosity shown by the Corinthians to the poor saints in Jerusalem will result in God's abundant provision and thanksgiving directed towards Him. It highlights the cyclical nature of giving and receiving blessings, rooted in a divine economy.

2 Corinthians 9 12 Context

Second Corinthians chapter 9 is part of Paul's extended discussion about the collection for the needy saints in Jerusalem. Following his exhortation in chapter 8, Paul here continues to encourage the Corinthian believers. He reassures them of God's faithfulness in response to their liberality and emphasizes the spiritual benefits of their generosity. This passage is set against the backdrop of economic disparity between the church in Jerusalem and the Gentile churches, such as Corinth. Paul is fostering unity and mutual responsibility within the body of Christ across different cultural and economic lines.

2 Corinthians 9 12 Word Analysis

• "For" (Greek: hoti) - Introduces the reason or basis for the statement that follows; here, it explains why the Corinthian ministry of assistance is commendable.
• "the ministering" (Greek: diakonia) - Refers to service, ministry, or contribution. It's a broad term encompassing practical service and charitable work.
• "of this service" (Greek: tēs logēs tautēs) - Specifically points to the collection being taken up for the saints. Logē means a collection or bringing together.
• "not only" (Greek: ou monon) - Indicates that the following benefit is not the only outcome.
• "For" (Greek: alla kai) - But also; introduces an additional, perhaps more significant, consequence.
• "furthermore" (Greek: alla kai) - Continues the amplification of benefits.
• "supply" (Greek: epixeō) - Literally, "to work upon," "to contribute to," meaning to supply, to provide for, to fulfill a need.
• "the want" (Greek: ten chreian) - The need, the necessity.
• "of the saints" (Greek: tōn hagiōn) - The holy ones, referring to believers, set apart by God.
• "yea, and [also] abundant" (Greek: polla) - Greatly, in abundance, so that there is more than enough.
• "thanksgiving" (Greek: eucharistias) - Expressing gratitude.
• "unto God" (Greek: tōi theōi) - Directed towards God.
• "in the time" (Greek: en tōi chronōi) - During the time, at the time.
• "of this administration" (Greek: tēs leitourgias tautēs) - Referring to the entire process and act of ministry and distribution of the relief. Leitourgia implies a public service or duty, often religious.

Grouped Analysis:

• "the ministering of this service": This phrase encapsulates the act of the Corinthians participating in the relief efforts. It's a concrete demonstration of their love and unity.
• "supply the want of the saints": The primary, practical purpose of their giving—meeting the material needs of the believers.
• "yet the rather abound unto God": This signifies that the spiritual results of their generosity—increased thanksgiving to God—are even more significant.
• "abundant thanksgiving unto God": The generosity itself is a cause for profound gratitude and praise directed toward the source of their ability to give.
• "through Jesus Christ": While not explicitly in this verse, all true ministry and spiritual blessings flow through Christ. The "thanksgiving unto God" is ultimately enabled and mediated by Jesus. (Implied context of Paul's letters)
• "by the experience of this ministration": The act of ministering, through their tangible support, becomes the vehicle through which God is glorified and thanks are offered. The "experience" here refers to their participation and its results.

2 Corinthians 9 12 Bonus Section

The verse highlights that genuine Christian ministry (giving) is not merely a human transaction but a divine activity that brings glory to God. The "thanksgiving unto God" is a direct consequence and witness to God's goodness, demonstrated through His people. This echoes the Old Testament principle of bringing offerings with thanksgiving (Ps 96:8, 95:2). Paul, in his writings, consistently links giving with spiritual enrichment and God's glory, showing it as a vital expression of faith and fellowship. The "experience of this ministration" suggests that participation in the act of giving and serving offers tangible proof of God's work and prompts a responsive gratitude.

2 Corinthians 9 12 Commentary

This verse outlines a dual benefit of generous giving: fulfilling the needs of others and increasing thanksgiving to God. When believers share their resources, they directly address the practical needs of fellow saints, thereby living out the principles of Christian love. However, the impact extends beyond the temporal. This act of love inspires immense gratitude, not only in the recipients but also among the givers as they recognize God's hand enabling and blessing their generosity. It illustrates that Christian charity is a spiritual exercise that promotes God's glory by fostering thankfulness and acknowledging His providence in the lives of His people. The Corinthians’ giving is presented as a means through which God’s blessings overflow, leading to greater worship.

Practical Usage Examples:

• A church freely sharing resources with a neighboring community after a natural disaster.
• Individuals contributing to missions, enabling ministry to flourish and leading to thankfulness among supporters.
• Members pooling resources to help a family facing financial hardship, which then inspires collective praise to God for their ability to assist.