In the footsteps of Titus (3)

"We have urged Titus so that, as he had begun, so he leads to a good end your liberality." 2 Corinthians 8. 6

Second mission to Corinth

In his second letter, Paul announces to the Corinthians that Tite will return, accompanied by two brothers.

The first mission of Titus was to inquire about the spiritual state of the Corinthians, the second will be to encourage them to generosity ("to bring to a successful end their liberality"). Why ? Raised a year earlier, the question of beneficence had remained unresolved among the Corinthians. It was for them to raise funds to be added to other collections in Macedonia and probably Galatia (1 Corinthians 16: 1); Paul thought to bring these funds to the Christians of Jerusalem in need. Moreover, this gift would serve as a concrete testimony to the Jews of the effects of the Gospel among nations.

In a first impetus, the Corinthians had shown great intentions, but their zeal had weakened. Now they had to make up for this, compared to other donations collected, so that Paul's next arrival would be ready.

Paul paid great attention to material matters. He carefully watched "what is honest, not only before the Lord, but also before men" (2 Corinthians 8:21). He knew that the human heart is prone to neglect and deception. He wanted to prevent these funds from being wasted, or used to make friends, or diverted for personal use.

The mission he entrusts to Titus is delicate. We must neither hurt nor command, but encourage the action of love. Titus is prepared: he is well acquainted with the Christians of Corinth and Jerusalem, and he loves them. Moreover, like Paul, he is deeply committed to this project (8:16) and he goes to Corinth of his own free will. Knowledge of the field, love for the saints, commitment freely chosen, trust granted by the brothers, Tite met the essential conditions to carry out this project with two other teammates. We do not know their name, but we know the name that Paul gives them : "the glory of Christ" (8:23).

For us today, would believers who know us entrust us with a delicate service ? Our commitment to the cause of Christ and believers, like our whole life, will show our brothers and sisters if we are worthy of their trust.

Source (Pleasing the Lord)