2 CORINTHIANS 8
16 But thanks be to God, who put into the heart of Titus the same earnest care I have for you. 17 For he not only accepted our appeal, but being himself very earnest he is going to you of his own accord. 18 With him we are sendingthe brother who is famous among all the churches for his preaching of the gospel. 19 And not only that, but he has been appointed by the churches to travel with us as we carry out this act of grace that is being ministered by us, for the glory of the Lord himself and to show our good will. 20 We take this course so that no one should blame us about this generous gift that is being administered by us, 21 for we aim at what is honorable not only in the Lord’s sight but also in the sight of man. 22 And with them we are sending our brother whom we have often tested and found earnest in many matters, but who is now more earnest than ever because of his great confidence in you. 23 As for Titus, he is my partner and fellow worker for your benefit. And as for our brothers, they are messengersof the churches, the glory of Christ. 24 So give proof before the churches of your love and of our boasting about you to these men. – 2 Corinthians 8:16-24
2 CORINTHIANS 8 GIVE PROOF OF YOUR LOVE
A poem by ILMA inspired by these verses
As we serve and hold our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ
We continue to walk in the grace and love he showed us
Let us outdo one another in proving our love for the Lord
It is how we spread the truth that comes from his word
Let us aim to do only what glorifies God and what’s honorable
We press on to be the light that bears the likeness of our Creator.
In this letter, Paul commends Titus to the Corinthian church. He mentioned to them how Titus, not only accepted his appeal, but earnestly did it. Paul wants them to see the living proof of the work of Christ in Titus’ faithful and generous service for the gospel. He reminds them to remain honorable in their giving and to be messengers of the Lord. This way, the Lord Almighty is glorified. John 14:21 reiterates Paul’s letter since it says that the proof of our love for the Lord is to obey his commands and keep them. John 13:34 also says that whoever loves God must love his brothers as well.
REFLECTION
- How can you prove that you love God? How should it manifest in your life?
