2 Corinthians 9:1

New Testament Epistle (Pauline) ASV (1901)

What does 2 Corinthians 9:1 say?

The American Standard Version records this verse as: “For as touching the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you:” Read the surrounding verses and the named sources below before drawing broader conclusions.

The verse

For as touching the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you:
2 Corinthians 9:1 — American Standard Version

Context — 2 Corinthians 9

American Standard Version (1901) — public domain. Click any verse for its study page.
1For as touching the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you:

What do historical commentaries say?

John Gill's Exposition
John Gill (1697–1771) · Exposition of the Old and New Testament · 18th-century historical commentary
“For as touching the ministering to the saints, etc..] It looks at first sight as if the apostle was entering upon a new subject, though by what follows it appears to be the same; for by “ministering to the saints”, he does not mean the ministry of the Gospel to them; nor that mutual assistance members of churches are to give each other; but either the fellowship of ministering to the saints, which the churches had entreated him, and his fellow ministers, to take upon them, namely, to take the charge of their collections, and distribute them to the poor saints at Jerusalem; or rather these collections themselves, and their liberality in them: with respect to which he says, it is superfluous…”
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Jamieson, Fausset & Brown
Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset & David Brown · Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible · 19th-century historical commentary
“REASONS FOR HIS SENDING TITUS. THE GREATER THEIR BOUNTIFULNESS, THE MORE SHALL BE THE RETURN OF BLESSING TO THEM, AND THANKSGIVING TO GOD. (Co2 9:1-15) For--connected with Co2 8:16 : "Show love to the messengers of the churches; for as concerns the ministration for the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you who are so forward already." write--emphatical: It is superfluous to "write," for you will have witnesses present [BENGEL].”
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Barnes' Notes
Albert Barnes (1798–1870) · Notes on the Whole Bible · 19th-century historical commentary
“For as touching the ministering to the saints - In regard to the collection that was to be taken up for the aid of the poor Christians in Judea; see the notes on Romans 15:26; 1 Corinthians 16:1; 2 Corinthians 8:0. It is superfluous ... - It is needless to urge that matter on you, because I know that you acknowledge the obligation to do it, and have already purposed it. For me to write to you - That is, to write more, or to write largely on the subject. It is unnecessary for me to urge arguments why it should be done; and all that is proper is to offer some suggestions in regard to the manner in which it shall be accomplished. return to 'Top of Page'”
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Wesley's Explanatory Notes
John Wesley (1703–1791) · Explanatory Notes upon the New Testament and Old Testament notes · 18th-century historical commentary
“To write to you - Largely. 2 Corinthians 9:2”
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Tyndale Open Study Notes
Tyndale House Publishers · Tyndale Open Study Notes · Modern study notes
“9:1-5 Two motives reinforce the spirit of love in giving: (1) to emulate the Macedonians, who in their poverty had been forthcoming in their generosity (9:2); and (2) not to shame Paul or themselves, since he had boasted about the Corinthians’ generosity to the Macedonians (9:3-5). To ensure the timely gathering of the collection at Corinth, Paul would send the delegates (8:16-24) in advance to make sure the gift you promised is ready.”
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Treasury of Scriptural Knowledge
R. A. Torrey and contributors · The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge · Cross-reference reference work
“touching: Gen 27:42; Sa1 20:23; Kg2 22:18; Job 37:23; Psa 45:1; Mat 22:31; Rom 11:28; Phi 3:5, Phi 3:6 the ministering: Co2 9:12-14, Co2 8:4-15; Gal 2:10, Gal 6:10 it is: Th1 4:9, Th1 4:10, Th1 5:1; Jo1 2:27 2 Corinthians 9:2”
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Related study paths

Sources and verification