Paul had been under attack lead by false teachers in Corinth who debated the apostle's plan for the church's giving. In this section of his letter to the believers in Corinth, Paul reminds them giving is a blessing, which shows faith and obedience in giving back to God what is His to begin with. Now the apostle addresses the manner by which the Corinthians' offering should be handled and taken to its destined purpose, to the impoverished and famished believers in Jerusalem. "16 But thanks be to God who puts the same earnest care for you into the heart of Titus. 17 For he not only accepted the exhortation, but being more diligent, he went to you of his own accord." (2 Corinthians 8:16-17) Paul gives praise to God for Titus, a fellow laborer in Christ, who elected of his own accord and at his own expense to travel to Corinth where he would be entrusted with the church's offering. "18 And we have sent with him the brother whose praise is in the gospel throughout all the churches, 19 and not only that, but who was also chosen by the churches to travel with us with this gift, which is administered by us to the glory of the Lord Himself and to show your ready mind, 20 avoiding this: that anyone should blame us in this lavish gift which is administered by us— 21 providing honorable things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men." (2 Corinthians 8:18-21) Along with Titus was another laborer in Christ, appointed to perform such duties as travel with offerings and see the church's blessings be poured out upon reaching its destination. Paul wanted to share the tremendous joy felt upon sharing the church's collection entrusted to appointed individuals within the body of Christ. "22 And we have sent with them our brother whom we have often proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, because of the great confidence which we have in you." (2 Corinthians 8:22) Who is the brother? Paul does not mention his name in this letter but it safe to assume the fellow laborer was well known to the Corinthians and other churches. "23 If anyone inquires about Titus, he is my partner and fellow worker concerning you. Or if our brethren are inquired about, they are messengers of the churches, the glory of Christ. 24 Therefore show to them, and before the churches, the proof of your love and of our boasting on your behalf." (2 Corinthians 8:23-24) The apostle clearly lays out the plan for the gathering of the Corinthians' offering, to be handled with utmost care by appointed, trusted individuals within the church. Anyone curious as to the individuals involved in or the purpose of the offering should be told the truth, that each brother is laboring to advance the gospel of Jesus Christ fulfilling God's perfect plan for their lives. Such is the model we follow to this day, though not always motivated by God's glory. Believers then, just as today should be well informed as to the way their offerings are managed. Let us pray! Father God; Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles, God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope May your will be done We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day. Praise God, This message was written by Rev. Daniel St.Pierre
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