Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have.

2 CORINTHIANS 8:11KJV
Know the Bible

2 Corinthians 8:11 (KJV)

What does 2 Corinthians 8:11 mean?

2 Corinthians 8:11 urges the Corinthians to follow through on their earlier intention to give, encouraging them to actually complete the act of giving with what they have, just as they were eager to start. Paul is emphasizing that their willingness should be matched by real action, using the resources they currently possess.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth about a collection for believers in need, likely in Jerusalem. He reminds them that they had previously expressed a strong desire to help, and now he encourages them to finish what they started. The verse highlights the importance of not just having good intentions, but also carrying them out in practical ways.

The Greek behind 2 Corinthians 8:11

  • "Readiness" (προθυμία, prothymia): This word points to an eagerness or willingness of mind. Paul is recognizing that the Corinthians had the right attitude from the start, which is important in the context of giving.
  • "Will" (θέλω, thelō): This verb means to wish or desire. Paul is connecting their inner desire with the need for outward action.
  • "Performance" (ἐπιτελέω, epiteleo): This word means to complete or finish. Paul is urging them to bring their intentions to completion, not just to leave them as good ideas.
  • "Of that which ye have" (ἐκ τοῦ ἔχειν, ek tou echein): This phrase emphasizes giving according to what they actually possess, not beyond their means. Paul is not asking for more than they are able to give.

Why 2 Corinthians 8:11 matters

  • This verse clarifies that good intentions alone are not enough; follow-through is essential, especially in acts of generosity or service.
  • Paul’s instruction to give "out of what you have" shows sensitivity to each person’s situation, making clear that the expectation is not for equal amounts, but equal willingness and completion.
  • The verse connects to the larger context of chapters 8–9, where Paul teaches about genuine generosity, the importance of keeping promises, and the practical side of Christian giving.

Where else these words appear

“readiness” Greek G4288 · used in 5 verses

  • Acts 17:11 These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.
  • 2 Corinthians 8:12 For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.
  • 2 Corinthians 8:19 And not that only, but who was also chosen of the churches to travel with us with this grace, which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and declaration of your ready mind:

“perform” Greek G2005 · used in 10 verses

  • Luke 13:32 And he said unto them, Go ye, and tell that fox, Behold, I cast out devils, and I do cures to day and to morrow, and the third day I shall be perfected.
  • 2 Corinthians 8:6 Insomuch that we desired Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace also.
  • Hebrews 8:5 Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount.

“as” Greek G2509 · used in 13 verses

  • Romans 4:6 Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works,
  • 2 Corinthians 3:13 And not as Moses, which put a vail over his face, that the children of Israel could not stedfastly look to the end of that which is abolished:
  • 1 Thessalonians 3:12 And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you:

“Now” Greek G3570 · used in 21 verses

  • Romans 3:21 But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets;
  • 1 Corinthians 5:11 But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.
  • Colossians 1:21 And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled