2 Corinthians 8:16-17 But thanks be to God, who put into the heart of Titus the same devotion I have for you. 17 For he not only accepted our appeal, but being himself very earnest he is going to you of his own accord.
Paul praises God for moving Titus to care for the situation in Corinth. The word for “thanks” is the same word for “grace” (charis). We respond to grace by giving thanks. Paul attributes the whole situation of the Jerusalem offering to the working of God’s grace. By doing this, he invites the Corinthians to participate in this grace. God led Titus to have the same eagerness and devotion to the Corinthians. Paul felt deeply for this church. He had given years of effort to disciple these believers, through spending at least 18 months there, occasional visits, and writing several letters. Titus joined in this ministry with the same eagerness to see them grow and mature. Paul did not need to beg Titus to go to Corinth. Titus went willingly and wanted to help both the Corinthians and those in Jerusalem.
We learn a few things about Titus in these verses. One is that he was devoted to his ministry and did his best to see people grow in the Lord. Second, he did not hesitate when a need was apparent but followed through as the Lord led. Third, he was a team player and participated in a big project that was beyond himself. He did his part and encouraged others (the Corinthians) to do their part. Fourth, he did not need coerced or begged but joined in willingly. Having someone like this in an organization or church can make a huge difference in accomplishing that to which God has called us.
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