ISV(i)
2 In spite of their terrible ordeal of suffering, their abundant joy and deep poverty have led them to be abundantly generous.
3 I can testify that by their own free will they have given to the utmost of their ability, yes, even beyond their ability.
4 They begged us earnestly for the privilege of participating in this ministry to the saints.
5 We did not expect that! They gave themselves to the Lord first and then to us, since this was God’s will.
6 So we urged Titus to finish this work of kindness among you in the same way that he had started it.
7 Indeed, the more your faith, speech, knowledge, enthusiasm, and love for us increase, the more we want you to be rich in this work of kindness.
8 I am not commanding you but testing the genuineness of your love by the enthusiasm of others. 9 For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus, the Messiah. Although he was rich, for your sakes he became poor, so that you, through his poverty, might become rich.
8 I am not commanding you but testing the genuineness of your love by the enthusiasm of others. 9 For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus, the Messiah. Although he was rich, for your sakes he became poor, so that you, through his poverty, might become rich.