Discovery Box2 Corinthians 8:2-4 
Context8:2 that during a severe ordeal of suffering, their abundant joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in the wealth 1 of their generosity. 8:3 For I testify, they gave according to their means and beyond their means. They did so voluntarily, 2 8:4 begging us with great earnestness for the blessing and fellowship of helping 3 the saints.
2 Corinthians 8:12-14
Context8:12 For if the eagerness is present, the gift itself 4 is acceptable according to whatever one has, not according to what he does not have. 8:13 For I do not say this so there would be relief for others and suffering for you, but as a matter of equality. 8:14 At the present time, your abundance will meet their need, 5 so that one day their abundance may also meet your need, and thus there may be equality,
1 tn Or “riches.”
2 tn Or “spontaneously.”
3 tn Or “of ministering to.”
4 tn The words “the gift itself” are not in the Greek text but are implied. Translators often supply an English phrase like “it is” (NASB) but in the context, Paul is clearly referring to the collection Titus was to oversee (2 Cor 8:4-7). Therefore there is no reason not to specify the referent (the gift) more narrowly for clarity.
5 tn Or “their lack.”
