2 Corinthians 9:5
Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and make up before hand your bounty, whereof ye had notice before, that the same might be ready, as a matter of bounty, and not as of covetousness.
2 Corinthians 9:5 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse, the apostle Paul is explaining to the brethren the importance of being prepared and willing to give generously. He exhorts them to make arrangements ahead of time so that their gifts can be given freely and willingly, without any sense of coercion or greed. By encouraging the brethren to prepare in advance, Paul emphasizes the idea of giving out of a sense of bounty and abundance, rather than out of a desire for personal gain. The act of giving should be done with a generous and open heart, reflecting the selfless love and grace that we have received from God. This verse serves as a reminder to believers to be intentional and thoughtful in their giving, ensuring that it is a genuine expression of love and compassion towards others.
Theological Overview
Paul, in this verse from 2 Corinthians, emphasizes the importance of being prepared for giving generously. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the significance of being intentional and proactive in our giving, rather than giving out of selfish motives. The word "bounty" in the text refers to a generous and abundant gift, emphasizing the idea of giving with a willing and joyful heart. The exhortation to go before and make up a bounty beforehand speaks to the idea of planning and preparing for generosity, showing careful consideration in the act of giving. Additionally, the mention of covetousness underscores the importance of giving with a pure and selfless heart, rather than out of a desire for personal gain or recognition. This verse serves as a reminder for believers to give generously and cheerfully, following the example of Christ's sacrificial love.
2 Corinthians 9:5 in other translations
American Standard Version
I thought it necessary therefore to entreat the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and make up beforehand your aforepromised bounty, that the same might be ready as a matter of bounty, and not of extortion.
World English Bible
I thought it necessary therefore to entreat the brothers that they would go before to you, and arrange ahead of time the generous gift that you promised before, that the same might be ready as a matter of generosity, and not of greediness.
Douay-Rheims
Therefore I thought it necessary to desire the brethren that they would go to you before and prepare this blessing before promised, to be ready, so as a blessing, not as covetousness.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Wherefore, I thought it necessarie to exhort the brethren to come before vnto you, and to finish your beneuolence appointed afore, that it might be readie, and come as of beneuolence, and not as of niggardlinesse.