(a) Explain the concept of 'Giving' as outlined in Paul's second letter to the Corinthians.
(b) In what two ways can a Christian provide relief for the suffering of others?
Explanation
(a) Paul commended the Corinthians for their readiness to contribute to support the saints in Jerusalem. Following their contributions, he boasted to the Macedonians that the Corinthians had been ready with their relief materials since the previous year. Their action motivated some of the Macedonians to act accordingly. Paul, therefore, sent ahead of his arrival some people to ensure that their gifts were made ready for dispatch in order not to be embarrassed or humiliated with his boasting. He told them that whoever sowed sparingly would also reap sparingly, while those who sowed generously would also reap generously.
Therefore, they should individually contribute willingly, (not under compulsion) what each had originally proposed in his mind, for God loves a cheerful giver. God is always ready to release to cheerful givers His blessings in abundance so that they may have enough of everything for their own sustenance and more to spare for others and the poor. God who supplies seed to the sowers and bread for food will supply and multiply their resources, thus increasing the harvest of their righteousness.
By so doing, they will receive unlimited enrichment and blessing from God for their good works, enrich the saints physically and multiply their thankfulness to God. It is, therefore, a test of their Christian life and the acceptance of the gospel of Christ which will reflect God's glory. And, as for the saints, i.e, the recipients, their prayers for the Corinthians would be boundless. In conclusion, Paul gave thanks to God for His gift of Jesus which is beyond human experience and a demonstration of God's supreme example of giving to all.
(b) Some ways by which a Christian can provide relief for the suffering of others include:
(i) collecting cloths as charity to old peoples Homes, Charity Homes, etc.
(ii) sale/purchase of Red Cross poppies for the rehabilitation of ex-servicemen, families of fallen soldiers, etc.
(iii) collecting money through projects such as bob-a-job exercises to provide toys, little sweaters, baby dresses for motherless babies in Charity Homes.
(iv) sponsorship of the course of the poor by well-to-do Christians.
(v) Setting up special funds for the needy in the society.
