1But, indeed, concerning the ministry which is for the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you. 2For I know your willingness: of which I boasted on your behalf, to the Macedonians, that Achaia was prepared since the last year; and your zeal has stirred up the multitude. 3Yet I have sent the brethren, that our boasting concerning you, may not be rendered false in this particular; but that as I said you may be prepared. 4Lest, perhaps, if the Macedonians come with me, and find you unprepared, we (that we say not you) should be put to shame by this confidence. 5Therefore, I thought it necessary to entreat the brethren, that they would go before you, and complete beforehand your formerly announced bounty; that the same might be thus ready as a gift, and not as a thing extorted. 6Now this I say, he who sows sparingly, shall reap sparingly; and he who sows bountifully, shall reap bountifully. 7Every one according as he has purposed in his heart, ought to give; not with regret, nor by constraint; for God loves a cheerful giver. 8And God is able to make every blessing abound to you; that in everything, always having all sufficiency, you may abound in every good work. 9«As it is written,» 'He has dispersed, he has given to the poor: his righteousness remains forever.' 10Now, may he who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, supply and multiply your seed sown, and increase the products of your righteousness. 11That you may be enriched in everything, for all liberality, which produces, through us, thanksgiving to God. 12For the ministry of this public service, not only fill us up completely the wants of the saints; but also abounds in many thanksgivings to God. 13They, through the proof of the ministry, glorifying God for you avowed subjection to the gospel of Christ; and for the liberality of your contribution for them, and for all; 14and for their prayer for you, who ardently love you, on account of the exceeding favor of God bestowed on you. 15Now, thanks to God for his unspeakable gift.