Paul asks the Corinthians to open their hearts to his ministry team. We have the power to include or exclude others in our affections. Paul takes responsibility for his actions, recognizing the interconnectedness of the Corinthians' and his own well-being. As a pastor, he openly expresses love and confidence in the Corinthians.

It's important to note that Paul's afflictions in Macedonia went beyond physical. He mentioned "fightings without and fears within," which left him low-spirited, stressed, and tempted to despair. The presence of his friend Titus brought comfort, serving as a source of relief. The Corinthians questioned Paul's motives due to his absence, but Titus' report of their longing, mourning, and zeal on Paul's behalf was a great relief.

Although it saddened Paul initially to address the Corinthians' grief, he understood its significance for their spiritual well-being. While godly grief may resemble worldly grief on the surface, they yield different outcomes. Paul rejoices as the Corinthians' grief leads them to repentance. This godly grief is not mere remorse for sin but genuine sorrow for being in a state of sin. Instead of hardening their hearts, godly grief leads to penitence. It goes beyond sorrow to genuine repentance and restored joy. Their grief has been godly, not worldly. Godly sorrow is far from complacency; it ignites a genuine and responsive emotional surge. Now aware of the Corinthians' vindication through godly sorrow and repentance, Paul can finally breathe a sigh of relief.

Paul finds joy in the comfort he receives from the Corinthians, but his greatest joy is seeing Titus joyful. If the Corinthians had received his previous letter with unrepentant worldly sorrow, it would have shown Paul's lack of trustworthiness. However, the Corinthians embraced Titus as a beloved brother and fellow worker in spreading the gospel, welcoming him wholeheartedly. Titus has assured Paul of the Corinthians' spiritual well-being, and now Paul reassures them of his complete confidence in them.

Paul informs the Corinthians about the generous believers in Macedonia, describing it as a gift of God's grace. The Macedonians exhibited remarkable generosity, prioritizing others over themselves. They eagerly requested to participate in relieving the saints, desiring to pass on the grace they had received. Paul emphasizes that they gave more than just money – they gave themselves. Surrendering oneself to God is the fundamental prerequisite for selflessly giving to others.

Paul and Titus believe that the Corinthians have gained significant momentum. Paul encourages them to continue and complete their journey as Christians. Titus's involvement in the collection is crucial, and Paul refers to him as the one who will bring the Corinthians' giving to completion. Sharing resources with fellow believers is a sacred and heavenly act.

Paul appeals to love rather than commanding financial generosity. In His preincarnate state, Christ was rich, experiencing uninterrupted bliss and fellowship with His Father and the angels. However, He willingly chose to become poor and condescend to earth as a mortal man. Jesus' embrace of poverty was not just a display, but for us to become rich through His poverty. This richness is not in material wealth, but in grace, the Father's love, and the assurance of an eternal inheritance.

The Corinthians find true gain in giving. Their satisfaction and fulfillment come from sacrifice and selflessness. The gospel challenges our natural inclinations in a broken world. Rather than avoiding giving opportunities and feeling disappointed, our hearts should actively seek ways to give and feel disappointed when we can't.

Paul doesn't suggest that the Corinthians cause themselves affliction while the Jerusalem believers rest. Instead, the Corinthians' relief to the Jerusalem saints brings them spiritual benefits. Giving to others helps us let go of false security and experience God's generous heart. Paul refers to the Exodus, encouraging the Corinthians to act with this mindset, knowing that generosity doesn't hinder personal growth, but ensures it.

Titus is traveling to Corinth with the same compassionate heart as Paul for the Corinthians. Paul expresses gratitude to God for the Christian virtues displayed by every believer, acknowledging that these virtues are the result of God's work. By mentioning the renowned reputation of a preacher, Paul subtly avoids any perception of name-dropping. This highly esteemed individual has made honorable contributions in spreading the message of grace and is well-known among the churches, having been formally commissioned by them. Paul explains that he is sending this preacher as a positive affirmation of their care and integrity in collecting funds.

Paul asserts his genuine commitment to righteousness, valuing the opinions of others while remaining steadfast in his actions. Through various tests, he consistently proves his sincerity, subtly encouraging the Corinthians to follow suit. Titus is not only Paul's partner but also the Corinthians fellow worker, both to Paul and the Corinthians. Their ministry is selfless, aimed at the benefit of all. Paul describes the two unnamed brothers as messengers of the churches, revealing the glory of Christ. Throughout both letters, Paul's main concern is their character and love, not their abilities or knowledge.