2 Corinthians 9: Group Study Handout

How to use: read 2 Corinthians 9 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Paul begins by noting the readiness of the Corinthians to support the service to the saints (vv. 1-2). He boasts about their zeal to the Macedonians, urging them to be prepared in their generosity (vv. 3-5). He emphasizes the principle that those who sow sparingly will also reap sparingly, and those who sow bountifully will reap bountifully (vv. 6-7). Each person should give what they have decided in their heart, not reluctantly or out of obligation, for God loves a cheerful giver.

Key verse

“Let each man give according as he has determined in his heart; not grudgingly, or under compulsion; for God loves a cheerful giver.”
2 Corinthians 9:7 (WEB)

Outline

2 Corinthians 9:1–2 Preparation for Generous Giving
2 Corinthians 9:3–5 Ensuring Readiness and Generosity
2 Corinthians 9:6–7 Principle of Sowing and Reaping
2 Corinthians 9:8–11 God's Provision and Enrichment
2 Corinthians 9:12–14 Impact of Generous Giving
2 Corinthians 9:15 Thankfulness for God's Gift

Discussion questions

In v6, what does Paul mean by 'sows sparingly'?
What does Paul refer to in v13 when he mentions 'the proof given by this service'?
In v11, what does Paul mean by 'enriched in everything to all generosity'?
Why does Paul emphasize that God loves 'a cheerful giver' in v7?
When has your 'generosity' made a difference in someone's life?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 2 Corinthians 9: Ecclesiastes 11, Philippians 4, Ephesians 3.

Before next time: read 2 Corinthians 10.