"But as you abound in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all diligence, and in your love for us—see that you abound in this grace also" (2 Cor. 8:7).
One of the great privileges and duties of the Christian church is to care for the poor. This service to society and especially to other Christians should not be left to government programs or to philanthropists, but it should be maintained and executed by the church. Neither should this duty be left to the wealthier churches, although they may have a greater responsibility because of the abundance God has given them. But it is a duty for the poor as well. The churches of Macedonia, once hearing of the great need of the Jerusalem church, decided without any prodding from the apostles to send money. The Macedonian churches were in the midst of affliction, persecution, and poverty, but they were not selfish. They did not have much to give, but they still gave. Like the old woman whom Jesus praised, they gave out of their poverty.
Paul wanted the Corinthians to follow the example of the Macedonians. They saw a need and they did what they could to meet that need. The Macedonians were motivated to do so because they realized that their service was rendered to the Lord. They consecrated their entire lives to the Lord, not only in word but in deed. In giving to others, they were giving to the Lord and bringing glory to Him.
The apostle attributes this extraordinary service not to the inherent goodness of the Macedonians but to the grace of God. We would never serve or sacrifice for another human being unless God enabled us to do so. Therefore, in all things we should give the praise and glory to God, not to man.
We should be motivated to give to the poor, not because it is some hard task we must perform, but because we love the Lord. Paul also gives some other motives for us to consider. We should give because this service is an outworking of our Christian profession. If we are sincere in our Christian profession, giving to others is proof of that sincerity. We should also give because Christ Himself gave up all things for us. Can we do any less for fellow brothers and sisters? Paul did not give the Corinthians a set amount, but he asked them to give out their means. Is this too much to ask of those for whom Christ gave up everything? Let us emulate the Macedonians who did not think the sacrifice too great.
Gather your family together this weekend and talk about the importance of giving to the poor. Have everyone contribute something, and then give that money to your church, designating it to a ministry for the poor. If you are single, give above and beyond your normal offering this week, designating it for the poor.