6 So we urged Titus, just as he had earlier made a beginning, to bring also to completion this act of grace on your part.
6 Insomuch that we desired Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace
6 Accordingly, we urged Titus that as he had started, so he should complete among you this act of grace.
6 That's what prompted us to ask Titus to bring the relief offering to your attention, so that what was so well begun could be finished up.
6 So we urged Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also complete this grace in you as well.
6 So we have urged Titus, who encouraged your giving in the first place, to return to you and encourage you to finish this ministry of giving.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 8:6
Commentary on 2 Corinthians 8:1-6
(Read 2 Corinthians 8:1-6)
The grace of God must be owned as the root and fountain of all the good in us, or done by us, at any time. It is great grace and favour from God, if we are made useful to others, and forward to any good work. He commends the charity of the Macedonians. So far from needing that Paul should urge them, they prayed him to receive the gift. Whatever we use or lay out for God, it is only giving him what is his own. All we give for charitable uses, will not be accepted of God, nor turn to our advantage, unless we first give ourselves to the Lord. By ascribing all really good works to the grace of God, we not only give the glory to him whose due it is, but also show men where their strength is. Abundant spiritual joy enlarges men's hearts in the work and labour of love. How different this from the conduct of those who will not join in any good work, unless urged into it!