King James Version

What Does 2 Corinthians 9:13 Mean?

“Whiles by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution unto them, and unto all men;”

Context

Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God. bountifulness: or, liberality: Gr. simplicity

For the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God;

Whiles by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution unto them, and unto all men;

And by their prayer for you, which long after you for the exceeding grace of God in you.

Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(13) **Whiles by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God.**—The construction of the Greek sentence is again that of a participle which has no direct grammatical connection with what precedes, but the English version sufficiently expresses the meaning. *Test* would, perhaps, be a better word than “experiment.” The word is the same as that rendered, with a needless variation, “experience” in Romans 5:4, “trial” in 2Corinthians 8:2, “proof” in 2Corinthians 13:3. **Your professed subjection.**—The English version makes the not unfrequent mistake of merging the genitive in a somewhat weak adjective. Literally, *in your obedience to the confession of faith.* The latter noun is used in this sense in 1Timothy 6:12-13; Hebrews 3:1; Hebrews 4:14. The word seems to have acquired a half-technical significance, like that which attaches to “faith” and “religion” used objectively. **For your liberal distribution.**—The construction is the same as in the previous clause: *for the liberality of your contribution.*

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 2 Corinthians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

2 Corinthians 9:13 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.