2 Corinthians 8:7
New International Version
But since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you —see that you also excel in this grace of giving.

New Living Translation
Since you excel in so many ways—in your faith, your gifted speakers, your knowledge, your enthusiasm, and your love from us—I want you to excel also in this gracious act of giving.

English Standard Version
But as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all earnestness, and in our love for you—see that you excel in this act of grace also.

Berean Standard Bible
But just as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness, and in the love we inspired in you—see that you also excel in this grace of giving.

Berean Literal Bible
But even as you abound in every way--in faith, and speech, and knowledge, and all earnestness, and in the love from us to you--that also you should abound in this grace.

King James Bible
Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also.

New King James Version
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.

New American Standard Bible
But just as you excel in everything, in faith, speaking, knowledge, and in all earnestness and in the love we inspired in you, see that you also excel in this gracious work.

NASB 1995
But just as you abound in everything, in faith and utterance and knowledge and in all earnestness and in the love we inspired in you, see that you abound in this gracious work also.

NASB 1977
But just as you abound in everything, in faith and utterance and knowledge and in all earnestness and in the love we inspired in you, see that you abound in this gracious work also.

Legacy Standard Bible
But just as you abound in everything, in faith and word and knowledge and in all earnestness and in the love we inspired in you, see that you abound in this gracious work also.

Amplified Bible
But just as you excel in everything, [and lead the way] in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in genuine concern, and in your love for us, see that you excel in this gracious work [of giving] also.

Christian Standard Bible
Now as you excel in everything—in faith, speech, knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love for us —excel also in this act of grace.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
Now as you excel in everything—faith, speech, knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love for us—excel also in this grace.

American Standard Version
But as ye abound in everything, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all earnestness, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also.

Contemporary English Version
You do everything better than anyone else. You have stronger faith. You speak better and know more. You are eager to give, and you love us better. Now you must give more generously than anyone else.

English Revised Version
But as ye abound in everything, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all earnestness, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
Indeed, the more your faith, your ability to speak, your knowledge, your dedication, and your love for us increase, the more we want you to participate in this work of God's kindness.

Good News Translation
You are so rich in all you have: in faith, speech, and knowledge, in your eagerness to help and in your love for us. And so we want you to be generous also in this service of love.

International Standard Version
Indeed, the more your faith, speech, knowledge, enthusiasm, and love for us increase, the more we want you to be rich in this work of kindness.

Majority Standard Bible
But just as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness, and in your love for us—see that you also excel in this grace of giving.

NET Bible
But as you excel in everything--in faith, in speech, in knowledge, and in all eagerness and in the love from us that is in you--make sure that you excel in this act of kindness too.

New Heart English Bible
But as you abound in everything, in faith, utterance, knowledge, all earnestness, and in the love from us that is in you, see that you also abound in this grace.

Webster's Bible Translation
Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also.

Weymouth New Testament
Yes, just as you are already very rich in faith, readiness of speech, knowledge, unwearied zeal, and in the love that is in you, implanted by us, see to it that this grace of liberal giving also flourishes in you.

World English Bible
But as you abound in everything—in faith, utterance, knowledge, all earnestness, and in your love to us—see that you also abound in this grace.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
but even as in everything you abound, in faith, and word, and knowledge, and all diligence, and in your love to us, that also in this grace you may abound;

Berean Literal Bible
But even as you abound in every way--in faith, and speech, and knowledge, and all earnestness, and in the love from us to you--that also you should abound in this grace.

Young's Literal Translation
but even as in every thing ye do abound, in faith, and word, and knowledge, and all diligence, and in your love to us, that also in this grace ye may abound;

Smith's Literal Translation
But as ye abound in everything, in faith, and in word, and in knowledge, and in all care, and in love from you to us, that also ye abound in this grace.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
That as in all things you abound in faith, and word, and knowledge, and all carefulness; moreover also in your charity towards us, so in this grace also you may abound.

Catholic Public Domain Version
But, just as in all things you abound in faith and in word and in knowledge and in all solicitude, and even more so in your charity toward us, so also may you abound in this grace.

New American Bible
Now as you excel in every respect, in faith, discourse, knowledge, all earnestness, and in the love we have for you, may you excel in this gracious act also.

New Revised Standard Version
Now as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in utmost eagerness, and in our love for you —so we want you to excel also in this generous undertaking.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
Therefore, as you abound in every thing, in faith, in the word of God, in knowledge, in all perseverance, and by our love toward you, you should likewise excel in this gracious favor also.

Aramaic Bible in Plain English
But just as you abound in everything: in faith, in the word, in knowledge, in all diligence and in our love for you, so also, you shall abound in this grace.
NT Translations
Anderson New Testament
Now as you excel in every thing, in faith, and in speech, and in knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love for us, see that you excel in this gift also.

Godbey New Testament
But as in every thing you abound, in faith, and in word, and knowledge, and in all zeal, and in divine love from you in us, that you may also abound in this philanthropy.

Haweis New Testament
So as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and elocution, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also.

Mace New Testament
that as you excel in every thing, in faith, in language, mystical knowledge, in all virtue, and in your affection to us; I hope you will excel too in this charitable disposition.

Weymouth New Testament
Yes, just as you are already very rich in faith, readiness of speech, knowledge, unwearied zeal, and in the love that is in you, implanted by us, see to it that this grace of liberal giving also flourishes in you.

Worrell New Testament
But, as ye abound in everything—in faith, and speech, and knowledge, and all diligence, and in your love to us—see that ye abound in this grace also.

Worsley New Testament
And as ye abound in every other grace, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, that ye may abound in this grace also.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Generosity Commended
6So we urged Titus to help complete your act of grace, just as he had started it. 7But just as you excel in everything— in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness, and in the love we inspired in you— see that you also excel in this grace of giving. 8I am not making a demand, but I am testing the sincerity of your love in comparison to the earnestness of others.…

Cross References
2 Corinthians 9:8
And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things, at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.

1 Corinthians 1:5
For in Him you have been enriched in every way, in all speech and all knowledge,

Philippians 1:9
And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight,

Colossians 1:9-10
For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, / so that you may walk in a manner worthy of the Lord and may please Him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God,

1 Thessalonians 3:12
And may the Lord cause you to increase and overflow with love for one another and for everyone else, just as our love for you overflows,

1 Corinthians 12:31
But eagerly desire the greater gifts. And now I will show you the most excellent way.

1 Corinthians 14:12
It is the same with you. Since you are eager to have spiritual gifts, strive to excel in gifts that build up the church.

Ephesians 4:15
Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into Christ Himself, who is the head.

Philippians 4:17
Not that I am seeking a gift, but I am looking for the fruit that may be credited to your account.

1 Timothy 6:18
Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, and to be generous and ready to share,

Romans 15:14
I myself am convinced, my brothers, that you yourselves are full of goodness, brimming with knowledge, and able to instruct one another.

Galatians 5:22-23
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, / gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

James 2:5
Listen, my beloved brothers: Has not God chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom He promised those who love Him?

1 Peter 4:10
As good stewards of the manifold grace of God, each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another.

Matthew 5:16
In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.


Treasury of Scripture

Therefore, as you abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that you abound in this grace also.

as.

Romans 15:14
And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another.

1 Corinthians 1:5
That in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge;

1 Corinthians 4:7
For who maketh thee to differ from another? and what hast thou that thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory, as if thou hadst not received it?

faith.

1 Corinthians 13:2
And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.

knowledge.

1 Corinthians 8:1,2
Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth…

1 Corinthians 13:8
Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.

in your.

2 Corinthians 7:7
And not by his coming only, but by the consolation wherewith he was comforted in you, when he told us your earnest desire, your mourning, your fervent mind toward me; so that I rejoiced the more.

see.

2 Corinthians 9:8
And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:

Philippians 1:9,11
And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; …

1 Thessalonians 4:9,10
But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another…

this.

2 Corinthians 8:6
Insomuch that we desired Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace also.

2 Corinthians 9:14
And by their prayer for you, which long after you for the exceeding grace of God in you.

Ephesians 4:29
Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.

Jump to Previous
Abound Already Diligence Earnestness Excel Faith Full Good Grace Gracious Implanted Inspired Love Mind Readiness Ready Rich Speech Unwearied Utterance Way Word Work Zeal
Jump to Next
Abound Already Diligence Earnestness Excel Faith Full Good Grace Gracious Implanted Inspired Love Mind Readiness Ready Rich Speech Unwearied Utterance Way Word Work Zeal
2 Corinthians 8
1. He stirs them to a generous gift for the poor saints at Jerusalem, by the example of the Macedonians;
7. by commendation of their former forwardness;
9. by the example of Christ;
14. and by the spiritual profit that shall redound to themselves thereby;
16. commending to them the integrity and willingness of Titus, and those other brothers.














But just as you excel in everything
The phrase "excel in everything" suggests a standard of excellence that the Corinthian church is encouraged to maintain. The Greek word for "excel" is "περισσεύω" (perisseuō), which means to abound or overflow. This implies not just adequacy but abundance in their spiritual lives. Historically, Corinth was a wealthy city, and Paul is urging the believers to reflect their spiritual wealth in their actions, just as they do in other areas of their lives.

in faith
Faith, or "πίστις" (pistis) in Greek, is foundational to the Christian life. It is the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1). The Corinthians are commended for their faith, which is the bedrock of their relationship with God. In a city known for its diverse beliefs, maintaining strong faith was crucial for the early Christians.

in speech
The term "speech" here is translated from the Greek word "λόγος" (logos), which can mean word, message, or discourse. This suggests that the Corinthians were articulate in their expression of the Gospel. In a culture that valued rhetoric and eloquence, their ability to communicate effectively was a significant asset to their witness.

in knowledge
Knowledge, or "γνῶσις" (gnōsis), refers to understanding and insight, particularly in spiritual matters. The Corinthians were known for their intellectual pursuits, and Paul acknowledges their grasp of Christian doctrine. However, he also reminds them that knowledge must be coupled with love (1 Corinthians 8:1).

in complete earnestness
"Complete earnestness" is derived from the Greek word "σπουδή" (spoudē), meaning diligence or zeal. This reflects the Corinthians' sincere and passionate commitment to their faith. In the context of their spiritual journey, it underscores the importance of being fervent and proactive in their Christian walk.

and in the love we inspired in you
The phrase "the love we inspired in you" highlights the transformative power of Christian love, or "ἀγάπη" (agapē). This love is selfless and sacrificial, modeled after Christ's love for humanity. Paul and his companions had demonstrated this love, and it had taken root in the hearts of the Corinthians, shaping their community and interactions.

see that you also excel in this grace of giving
Finally, Paul encourages them to "excel in this grace of giving." The word "grace" here is "χάρις" (charis), which can mean favor, kindness, or gift. Giving is seen as an extension of God's grace, a tangible expression of their faith and love. In the historical context, Paul was organizing a collection for the impoverished church in Jerusalem, and he wanted the Corinthians to participate generously, reflecting their spiritual maturity and unity with the broader body of Christ.

(7) Therefore, as ye abound in every thing.--Literally, But, as ye abound, marking the transition from narrative to exhortation. He opens, as was his manner, with words of praise, and dexterously combines the gifts of "utterance and knowledge," which he had acknowledged before (1Corinthians 1:5), with the "earnestness and love" of which he had spoken in this very Epistle (2Corinthians 7:12).

And in your love to us.--Some MSS. give the reading "our love for you," but that in the text has abundant authority, and gives a far better meaning. The English expresses the general meaning, but there is a subtle delicacy in the Greek: "the love which, flowing from you, rests in us as its object." The other reading would convey the sense of "the love which, flowing from us--i.e., from our teaching and influence--now dwells in you, and shows itself in act." In any case, he is praising them for a quality which is actually theirs.

Verse 7. - Therefore; rather, but. In the following verses to ver. 15 he tells them his wishes about this collection. He desires them to show generosity among their other graces (ver. 7), not by way of command, but that they may emulate others and show their love (ver. 8) by following the example of Christ (ver. 9). And by acting thus they would prove the sincerity of their former promises (vers. 10, 11), especially as he did not wish them to give more than they could justly spare by way of reciprocity (vers. 12-15). As ye abound in every thing, in faith, etc. Perhaps "by faith," etc., "St. Paul," says Grotius, "knew the art of the orators to move by praising." This method of conciliating attention is technically called proparaitesis. The praise was, of course, sincere, though, no doubt, it was expressed with the generosity of love (see 1 Corinthians 1:5). And in your love to us. The Greek is more emphatic," and by the love from you in us;" i.e. by the love which streams from you, and which I feel in myself. In this grace also; namely, the grace of Christian liberality.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Greek
But
ἀλλ’ (all’)
Conjunction
Strong's 235: But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.

just as
ὥσπερ (hōsper)
Adverb
Strong's 5618: Just as, as, even as. From hos and per; just as, i.e. Exactly like.

you excel
περισσεύετε (perisseuete)
Verb - Present Indicative Active - 2nd Person Plural
Strong's 4052: From perissos; to superabound, be in excess, be superfluous; also to cause to superabound or excel.

in
ἐν (en)
Preposition
Strong's 1722: In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc.

everything—
παντὶ (panti)
Adjective - Dative Neuter Singular
Strong's 3956: All, the whole, every kind of. Including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole.

in faith,
πίστει (pistei)
Noun - Dative Feminine Singular
Strong's 4102: Faith, belief, trust, confidence; fidelity, faithfulness.

in speech,
λόγῳ (logō)
Noun - Dative Masculine Singular
Strong's 3056: From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression.

in knowledge,
γνώσει (gnōsei)
Noun - Dative Feminine Singular
Strong's 1108: Knowledge, doctrine, wisdom. From ginosko; knowing, i.e. knowledge.

in
καὶ (kai)
Conjunction
Strong's 2532: And, even, also, namely.

complete
πάσῃ (pasē)
Adjective - Dative Feminine Singular
Strong's 3956: All, the whole, every kind of. Including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole.

earnestness,
σπουδῇ (spoudē)
Noun - Dative Feminine Singular
Strong's 4710: (a) speed, haste, (b) diligence, earnestness, enthusiasm. From speudo; 'speed', i.e. despatch, eagerness, earnestness.

and
καὶ (kai)
Conjunction
Strong's 2532: And, even, also, namely.

in the
τῇ (tē)
Article - Dative Feminine Singular
Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

love
ἀγάπῃ (agapē)
Noun - Dative Feminine Singular
Strong's 26: From agapao; love, i.e. Affection or benevolence; specially a love-feast.

we
ἡμῶν (hēmōn)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 1st Person Plural
Strong's 1473: I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.

[inspired]
ἐξ (ex)
Preposition
Strong's 1537: From out, out from among, from, suggesting from the interior outwards. A primary preposition denoting origin, from, out.

in
ἐν (en)
Preposition
Strong's 1722: In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc.

you—
ὑμῖν (hymin)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 2nd Person Plural
Strong's 4771: You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.

[see] that
ἵνα (hina)
Conjunction
Strong's 2443: In order that, so that. Probably from the same as the former part of heautou; in order that.

you also excel
περισσεύητε (perisseuēte)
Verb - Present Subjunctive Active - 2nd Person Plural
Strong's 4052: From perissos; to superabound, be in excess, be superfluous; also to cause to superabound or excel.

in
ἐν (en)
Preposition
Strong's 1722: In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc.

this
ταύτῃ (tautē)
Demonstrative Pronoun - Dative Feminine Singular
Strong's 3778: This; he, she, it.

grace of giving.
χάριτι (chariti)
Noun - Dative Feminine Singular
Strong's 5485: From chairo; graciousness, of manner or act.


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NT Letters: 2 Corinthians 8:7 But as you abound in everything (2 Cor. 2C iiC 2Cor ii cor iicor)
2 Corinthians 8:6
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