READ: 2 Kor. 8: 1-15
Now you Philippians know also that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church shared with me concerning giving and receiving but you only. For even in Thessalonica you sent aid once and again for my necessities. Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that abounds to your account. Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God. – Phil. 4:15-18
Paul reminds the congregation of their previous acts of love in action. They were an exception among other churches. Only Philippi ensured that he did not lack anything when his income fell short. They stood with him in both prosperity and adversity. They even supported him while he was working in Thessalonica.
In verse 17, Paul emphasizes again that their gifts are not indispensable to him, but he considers them an offering of gratitude to the Lord. These are spiritual fruits that God will recognize as the work of the Holy Spirit in them. These good works, worked by God, will also be crowned with a reward of grace (Eph. 2:10).
Paul does not seek the gift for his own benefit but desires the fruit that increases in their account. Is this just spiritualizing? How do we view our own offerings and gifts?
The key question is: what is the state of your heart? If you give to the church or charity out of obligation because it is expected, then it is not a true fruit of faith. But if you give with a thankful, compassionate, and loving heart, God sees that act as His fruit and will reward it. Paul finds this attitude in the Philippians.
In 2 Cor. 8:1-5, Paul mentions the voluntary contributions from Macedonia for the collection in Jerusalem. He highlights how they gave even in their poverty and presents them as an example of true love and gratitude.
What do you learn from this for yourself?
Sing: Ps. 112:3