2 Corinthians 8:16 - Meaning and Application

In these verses, the apostle speaks well of the brothers who were sent to collect the offering. In a sense, he gives them letters of recommendation, so that if anyone asked about them, or was suspicious, it would be clear who they were and that they could be trusted (2 Corinthians 8:23).

He first commends Titus. Titus had a deep concern for the Corinthians and wanted to help them in every way. Paul speaks of this with thanks to God (2 Corinthians 8:16), because it is a reason for gratitude when God puts it in someone’s heart to do good for us or for others. Titus was also ready for this work. He accepted the task and was eager to take up this good mission (2 Corinthians 8:17). Asking for money to help others is often seen as an unpleasant duty, but it is a good service, and we should not shrink from it when God calls us to it.

Paul then commends another brother who was sent with Titus. Many think this was Luke. He is praised as a man whose service in the gospel was known and respected among all the churches (2 Corinthians 8:18). He had shown himself worthy in the work he had done. He was also chosen by the churches and joined with Paul in this ministry (2 Corinthians 8:19). Most likely, this was done at Paul’s own suggestion, so that no one could blame him for the way he handled this generous gift (2 Corinthians 8:20). Paul was careful to avoid any chance that evil-minded people might use to attack him.

He would not give anyone reason to accuse him of dishonesty or favoritism in this matter. He knew it was his duty, as it is the duty of all Christians, to do what is right, not only before the Lord but also before people. In other words, we should act wisely so far as we can, to avoid unfair suspicion and scandal. We live in a world quick to judge, so we should remove any excuse from those who want to speak badly of us. If people criticize us without cause, that is their fault. But if we give them a cause when there is no real reason, that is at least our carelessness.

Paul also commends another brother who was joined with the first two in this matter. Many think this was Apollos. Whoever he was, he had already shown himself faithful in many tasks, and so he was fit for this work. He also strongly desired to take part in it because he had confidence in the Corinthians, or a good opinion of them (2 Corinthians 8:22). It is a comfort to see people used in good works who have already proved themselves diligent.

Paul ends this section with a general commendation of them all (2 Corinthians 8:23). They were his fellow workers for the Corinthians’ good, messengers from the churches, and a credit to Christ. They brought honor to Christ as his servants, and Christ had honored them by counting them faithful and using them in his service. So Paul urges the Corinthians to show generosity equal to the high expectation others had of them. Then these messengers, and the churches that sent them, would see a full proof of the Corinthians’ love to God and to their suffering brothers and sisters, and Paul would not have boasted about them in vain (2 Corinthians 8:24). The good opinion others have of us should encourage us to do what is right.