2 Corinthians 8:20 (ESV) — We take this course so that no one should blame us
about this generous gift that is being administered by us, …
NOTE: Paul mentions
two people, not by name, as well as other men who will be taking the gift to
Jerusalem. Paul is being especially careful, probably because of charges from
others that might occur if there was even an appearance of evil. The men apparently
had been selected by the churches for the job. Additionally, some of the men
who traveled with Paul and were well known to the churches would also accompany
the gift. While the world might want to find some evidence to condemn Paul as a
greedy man, his history and character is anything but greedy. He worked, he
sacrificed, he gave of himself again and again. He did not have to act in the
way that he did. He could have expected, even demanded support, but he never
availed himself of that authority. He traveled without a family and so his
expenses were meager. And yet, he takes pain to ensure that there is not even
the slightest hint of impropriety.
PRAYER: Father, you
know our heart and you know our motives, but we must still be careful not to
bring the gospel into disrepute. Help us to go the extra mile to make sure that
everything is done above board, and in a manner worthy of servants of the most
high God.
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