Avoiding this, that no man should blame us in this abundance which is administered by us:

2 CORINTHIANS 8:20KJV
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What does 2 Corinthians 8:20 mean?

2 Corinthians 8:20 describes Paul’s effort to prevent anyone from blaming him or his companions for how they handle the generous financial gift being collected. Paul wants to make sure that no one can accuse them of mismanaging or misusing the abundance entrusted to them.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth about a collection being gathered for believers in need. He explains that he and others are taking careful steps to avoid any suspicion or criticism about how the money is managed. This verse highlights Paul’s concern for transparency and accountability in handling resources given for ministry.

The Greek behind 2 Corinthians 8:20

  • The word "blame" (μωμήσηται, mōmēsētai) means to find fault or accuse. Paul is focused on avoiding any grounds for accusation regarding the funds.
  • "Abundance" (ἁδρότης, hadrotēs) refers to the generous sum or wealth being collected, emphasizing the significant responsibility involved.
  • "Administered" (διακονεῖται, diakoneitai) comes from a word meaning to serve or manage, showing that Paul sees the handling of the gift as a form of service, not just a transaction.

Why 2 Corinthians 8:20 matters

  • This verse clears up any idea that Paul was careless or secretive with money; he is intentionally open and careful to avoid any appearance of wrongdoing.
  • It connects to the wider passage by showing that integrity in financial matters is a key part of Christian leadership and ministry.
  • The verse emphasizes the importance of trust and accountability, especially when dealing with resources meant to help others.

Where else these words appear

“Avoiding” Greek G4724 · used in 2 verses

  • 2 Thessalonians 3:6 Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us.

“blame” Greek G3469 · used in 2 verses

“administered” Greek G1247 · used in 32 verses

  • Matthew 4:11 Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.
  • Luke 8:3 And Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod's steward, and Susanna, and many others, which ministered unto him of their substance.
  • Romans 15:25 But now I go unto Jerusalem to minister unto the saints.

“this” Greek G5026 · used in 119 verses

  • Matthew 10:23 But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come.
  • Luke 18:5 Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.
  • Acts 23:1 And Paul, earnestly beholding the council, said, Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day.