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"I do not mean that others should be eased and you burdened..."

Text: 2 Corinthians 8:13

MAKING THINGS CLEAR

Matters involving finance tend to be more fraught with difficulties than other issues. Thus, Paul took great pains to explain things carefully.

“For I do not mean that others should be eased and you burdened;
but by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may supply their lack,
that their abundance also may supply your lack- that there may be an equality.”
2 Corinthians 8:13-14

1. A quick review

a) Giving is a grace that may be learned (2 Corinthians 8:6-7).

i) The spirit of giving by Macedonian churches was hailed as exemplary.

ii) They had learned how to give “beyond their ability”.

b) Paul’s word is best understood as “advice” (2 Corinthians 8:10).

c) There was no coercion at any time.

2. “For I do not mean that others should be eased and you burdened”

a) The Corinthians must not feel that they are burdened by the call to give.

i) The word “burden” is sometimes translated elsewhere as “tribulation”.

ii) Giving is never “tribulation!”

b) Paul was not saying that other churches may ease up on their giving if the Corinthians gave.

i) The word “ease” may be translated as “relief”.

ii) Not giving must not be understood as “relief”.

c) There must be no misunderstanding on this matter.

3. “An equality”

a) This word may be understood as “fairness”.

b) Those who have abundance should consider giving to relieve needs.

c) All may participate in providing relief to those who are in need.

d) Everyone ought to do his part.

4. “Abundance”

a) There are some who have been blessed much.

b) There are some who are obviously in need.

c) It is surely right that there should be a sense of practical care and concern shown by those who have been blessed with abundance to give to those who are in obvious need.