Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and make up beforehand your bounty, whereof ye had notice before, that the same might be ready, as a matter of bounty, and not as of covetousness.

2 CORINTHIANS 9:5KJV
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2 Corinthians 9:5 (KJV)

What does 2 Corinthians 9:5 mean?

2 Corinthians 9:5 describes Paul arranging for some fellow believers to visit the Corinthian church ahead of his own arrival, so they could organize the collection of a promised gift. Paul wants this gift to be given freely and generously, not reluctantly or as if it were forced.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth about a financial offering they had previously agreed to send to help believers in need elsewhere. He sends trusted companions ahead to make sure the collection is ready, emphasizing that their giving should be a genuine act of generosity ("bounty") rather than something done out of pressure or greed. This careful preparation helps avoid any misunderstanding about their motives.

The Greek behind 2 Corinthians 9:5

  • "Bounty" (εὐλογία, eulogia): This word is often understood as "blessing" or "generous gift." Paul uses it to highlight that the collection should be seen as a positive, willing act, not just a duty.
  • "Covetousness" (πλεονεξία, pleonexia): This word means greed or grasping for more. Paul contrasts true generosity with any hint of selfishness or reluctance, making clear that the gift should not feel extracted or grudging.
  • "Exhort" (παρακαλέω, parakaleō): This word means to encourage or urge. Paul’s tone is gentle but firm, showing he wants the Corinthians to act willingly, not under compulsion.

Why 2 Corinthians 9:5 matters

  • This verse clears up that Paul is not trying to pressure the Corinthians or embarrass them, but wants their giving to be thoughtful and sincere.
  • The emphasis on "bounty" versus "covetousness" highlights the importance of motivation in giving—Paul cares about the heart behind the gift, not just the amount.
  • In the wider passage, this verse sets the stage for Paul’s teaching on cheerful giving, showing that preparation and intention matter as much as the act itself.

Where else these words appear

“before” Greek G4293 · used in 4 verses

  • Acts 3:18 But those things, which God before had shewed by the mouth of all his prophets, that Christ should suffer, he hath so fulfilled.
  • Acts 3:24 Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow after, as many as have spoken, have likewise foretold of these days.
  • Acts 7:52 Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers:

“necessary” Greek G316 · used in 8 verses

  • Acts 10:24 And the morrow after they entered into Caesarea. And Cornelius waited for them, and had called together his kinsmen and near friends.
  • 1 Corinthians 12:22 Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary:
  • Philippians 2:25 Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labour, and fellowsoldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants.

“before” Greek G4281 · used in 9 verses

  • Matthew 26:39 And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.
  • Mark 14:35 And he went forward a little, and fell on the ground, and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him.
  • Acts 12:10 When they were past the first and the second ward, they came unto the iron gate that leadeth unto the city; which opened to them of his own accord: and they went out, and passed on through one street; and forthwith the angel departed from him.

“covetousness” Greek G4124 · used in 10 verses

  • Mark 7:22 Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness:
  • Ephesians 4:19 Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.
  • 1 Thessalonians 2:5 For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness: