Keep the Promise of Giving

[전승훈2]

Summary
Paul explains that although the Corinthians are already willing to give for the support of the saints, he is sending the brothers ahead to ensure that their promised gift is ready. This preparation is meant to prevent embarrassment for both Paul and the Corinthians and to ensure that the offering is given willingly rather than under pressure. Paul emphasizes readiness and intentionality so that the gift may truly reflect generosity and sincerity.
 
Teaching:
A generous gift, or an offering, is not merely a matter of money; it is an expression‎ of faith, grace, worship, service, and fellowship.

Unlike the Old Testament, the New Testament speaks of offering money, yet even then it is not simply a financial issue. In particular, the Corinthian church’s support of the Jerusalem church represents the unity between Gentile believers and Jewish believers, and, more broadly, an act of worship offered to God. If giving is viewed only as a financial matter, then the church itself ends up being driven by money.

In conclusion, although the collection had been prepared for a year, the Corinthian church had not yet completed the offering. Paul therefore urges them to promptly and properly prepare what they had promised.

Rather than being troubled or tested because of giving, I hope that through giving you will worship God, serve the church, share fellowship among the holy people of God, and experience God’s grace.

Excerpt from the sermon by Pastor Lee, Jan 15, 2026
2 Corinthians 9:1-5

<참 많은 생각을 하게 만든 가우디 성당의 천장>

[전승훈2]

저 웅장한 성당 또한 누군가 하나님과 약속한 헌금으로 2036년까지 건축한다고 하는데 (온전함의 여부를 떠나서),

세상의 기준을 옆으로 두고, 금액의 크기가 아닌 금액의 경중의 기준으로 나는 하나님과 약속한 것이 있나 오늘 말씀을 들으며 생각해봅니다.

[최은정]

어지러울 정도로 화려한 천장이네요..!