2 Corinthians 8:16-

I. Giving had accountability and cooperation. Vs 16-23

-Paul makes it clear that this was not a Paul’s Pet Project

-Paul could be trusted by the churches, that is not the point

-The Point is that Paul’s opponents could not be trusted.

-So Paul demonstrated accountability and cooperation

-VS 16-17, TITUS is involved in the collect for the saints in Jerusalem .

-Titus’ involvement as a high respected man in Corinthian robbed Pauls accusers

-And he is involved, not becuase his arm has been twisted, but because he believes in the work…it is of his own accord

-Vs 18 Not only Titus, but also an unnamed brother who is famous for preaching the Gospel

-THere is speculation among scolas about who this unnamed bother is, but we cannot be sure.

-The Corinthians knew him…and the implication is that they knew him as a preacher and that he could be trusted.

-This is accountability...

-BUt this is also cooperation

-VS 19 this person has been appointed by all the church for this task...

-THAT IS, THE CHUCH HAS COMMISSIONED HIM FOR THIS RELIEF WORK IN EXTENDING GRACE TO THE SAINTS.

-”There are no lone ranger Christians”

-There are also no lone ranger ministers or missionaries.

-The biblical model is that missionaries, pastors, evangelists are send, commissioned, prayed for…by the church.

-We find out something about this wok of grace..

-It was for the Glory of God

-It was to show our good will....

Vs20-23 Safeguards in place...

2 Giving had LOVE as its motivating factor 24-9:4

3. Giving gives and expects nothing in return 9:5