Paul addresses the Corinthian congregation’s final question. They wanted to know how to collect money for God’s people in Israel. Paul had asked them for this charity in an earlier letter that we do not have. Those in need were poor, persecuted Jewish Christians in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and Galilee. (Acts 8:1, 11:28, 44 or 46 A.D.)
Corinth was a Greek city in the Roman province of Achaia in Europe. Galatia, also involved in the charitable collection, was not (1). Galatia was a Roman province in central Anatolia (modern-day Turkey) in Asia. 2 Corinthians 8:1 and 9:1-2 reveal that the congregations in Macedonia were also collecting a charitable donation for the Jews in Israel. Macedonia in Europe was a Roman province north of Achaia province. Thessalonica was located in Macedonia. Cross-cultural giving was purposely prepared.
Paul wrote to them, “And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” (3:19) To the Roman congregation, he wrote, “Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” (Romans 12:13) Expressing love is to provide charity to fellow believers who are persecuted and/or in troubles not brought on by themselves.
