2 Corinthians 8:14 Meaning and Explanation
“But by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there may be equality:”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Paul envisions an equality in which present abundance meets others' need, so that one day their abundance may meet yours.
What Does 2 Corinthians 8:14 Mean?
Paul unfolds his principle of 'equality.' The Corinthians have 'abundance' now, so it can be a 'supply' for the Jerusalem believers' 'want.' But the flow is not one-directional. A time may come when 'their abundance' meets the Corinthians' future need. He repeats the goal: 'that there may be equality.'
This is the beautiful economy of the body of Christ. Today's giver may be tomorrow's receiver, and so generosity becomes a shared mutual care rather than charity flowing only one way. Plenty is not for hoarding but for sharing across the family of faith, that no member lack while another overflows. Equality here is not sameness but a fellowship where surplus answers need wherever it appears. In God's household, abundance is held in trust for one another.
2 Corinthians 8:14 in the Original Language
isotes (ἰσότης), 'equality' -- fairness and balance, a fitting evenness of provision among all.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2 Corinthians 8:14
What does 2 Corinthians 8:14 mean?
Paul envisions an equality in which present abundance meets others' need, so that one day their abundance may meet yours.