Useful Bible Studies > 2 Corinthians Commentary > chapter 8

Jesus became poor so that his people would be rich

2 Corinthians 8:9

Jesus, who was rich, became poor. His wealth refers to all the wealth of heaven. Before his birth, he ruled heaven as God the Son*, with God the Father and the Holy Spirit. There is one God, who is Father, Son and Holy Spirit. He created everything, and all things exist for him.

It astonishes us that he left heaven to be born as a man. He chose not to be born in a king’s palace, but into a poor family. Then, during his life on earth, he chose to behave in an even more humble manner. He served people, like a servant or even a slave *. On the cross, he died like a common criminal *.

If these events astonish us, then the reason astonishes us even more. He did these things, writes Paul, ‘for your benefit’. That is, for the people who turn from their evil deeds to receive him (Jesus) into their lives*.

The result is that God’s people will receive true wealth. That does not refer to the kind of wealth that people try to get in this world*. This world’s wealth does not impress God*. Nor is true wealth the things that this world’s rulers consider great*.

God has prepared for his people something that is much better than these things*. They receive life that never ends*. They receive joy that nobody can take from them*. They will receive the full rights of the sons of God*. Heaven and the New Jerusalem will be their home always, and there they will rule with Christ*.

They may be poor in this world* but in the next world, they will be truly rich.

Next part: The collection of gifts (8:10-12)

 

* See complete article for these Bible references.

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© 2016, Keith Simons.