1   For concerning the ministry, that is done towards the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you.

2   For I know your forward mind: for which I boast of you to the Macedonians. That Achaia also was ready a year ago, and your emulation hath provoked very many.

3   Now I have sent the brethren, that what we boast of concerning you, be not made void in this behalf, that

(as I have said) you may be ready:

4   Lest, when the Macedonians shall come with me, and find you unprepared, we (not to say ye) should be ashamed in this matter.

5   Therefore I thought it necessary to desire the brethren that they would go to you before, and prepare this blessing before promised, to be ready, so as a blessing, not as covetousness.

6   Now this I say: He who soweth sparingly, shall also reap sparingly: and he who soweth in blessings, shall also reap of blessings.

7   Every one as he hath determined in his heart, not with sadness, or of necessity: For God loveth a chearful giver.

8   And God is able to make all grace abound in you: that ye always having all sufficiency in all things may abound to every good work,

9   As it is written: He hath dispersed abroad, he hath given to the poor: his justice remaineth for ever.

10   Now he that ministreth seed to the sower, will both give you bread to eat, and will multiply your seed, and increase the growth of the fruits of your justice:

11   That being enriched in all things you may abound unto all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.

12   For the administration of this service doth not only supply the want of the saints, but aboundeth also by many thanksgivings in the Lord,

13   While by the proof of this ministry they glorify God for the obedience of your confession to the gospel of Christ, and for the liberality of your communicating to them, and to all,

14   And by their praying for you, being desirous of you because of the excellent grace of God in you.

15   Thanks be to God for his unspeakable gift.

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