2 Corinthians 9:12 For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God.
The offering for the saints in Jerusalem is doing two things. Obviously it will help those in need. The situation was difficult for believers in Israel. The economy was bad with famine and foreign domination by the Romans. Taxation was difficult and expensive. The political climate was worsening, with the growing threat by the Romans to crush any rebellion. In just a few more years and the Jews would rise up in rebellion in 66 AD. The Romans would respond, rush the rebellion, and destroy the city in 70 AD. The needs would increase in the coming years. This offering would be crucial to help sustain many people in Jerusalem.
Significantly, this offering brings thanksgiving from many people. Obviously, those who receive it will be thankful for the assistance. It will also benefit others. There would be a spiritual blessing experienced as overflowing thanksgiving to God. This is a powerful connection to what Paul has just written in v. 7: “God loves a cheerful giver.” Our giving brings delight to God because it connects us to our Creator in dependence and relationship. Thanksgiving is directly related to worship. Genuine thanksgiving is an expression of worship and can lead to deep worship. Selfishness and stinginess close us off from the blessings God wants to give us. The formula is simple: giving leads to thanksgiving.
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