Daily Bible Plan - 2. Corinthians

30. September 2025

Devotion by Reverend Joseph Antwi

Theme: Set Apart to Kingdom Giving – 2 Corinthians 8

Fortified City Church & Love City Church, Basel

Introduction

Hello family, I’m very excited again to bring to you today’s devotion after a little bit of pause from yesterday. I trust you were still able to connect with God on your own—reading your Bible, reflecting on His Word, and meditating on the devotions already shared. I also encourage you, in your free moments, to open any book in the Old Testament and begin reading, as God’s Word is life and strength in every season.

I am thankful for what God has done during this seven-day fast—the impartation, the refreshing, and the empowerment He has given us. I am also deeply grateful for the amazing family God has placed around me: the wonderful people of Fortified City Church, Love City Church, PIWC Bern, and our Global Prayer Hub family, who have constantly shown love to this house, prayed for the church, supported me as your pastor, and stood with my family. We are thriving because of your prayers, your love, and your unwavering support.

And so, once again, I bring you this devotion from a place of love. My prayer is that as you read, reflect, and act on it, your heart will be stirred toward Kingdom generosity. I’ve also provided references below for further study, so this message can continue to bless you even after today.

⸻

Theme Scripture

“And not only as we had hoped, but they first gave themselves to the Lord, and then to us by the will of God.”

— 2 Corinthians 8:5 NKJV

⸻

Set Apart to Kingdom Giving

We must understand this truth: without giving, it is nearly impossible for the church to reach its God-given goals. Ministry requires resources to scale, to reach souls, and to build platforms for the Gospel. Over the years, we have seen how the world invests heavily in its own agendas. Circular artists spend millions on concerts, and organizations willingly sponsor such events to glorify the world. But when it comes to Christian events, there is no worldly sponsorship—it is the believers who finance the work of their Father’s kingdom.

And why? Because the kingdom we are supporting is not a passing fad—it is the eternal kingdom prepared for us. God blesses His people so that they can be a blessing to the kingdom, to their neighbors, to their friends, to individuals in need, and to poor nations longing for help. This is the Lord’s design for His people: that we might abound in generosity to advance His work and reflect His love.

⸻

1. Giving Out of Grace, Not Abundance (vv. 1–2)

The Macedonian churches gave joyfully even in affliction and poverty. Their generosity was not circumstantial but spiritual—it was the grace of God working in them.

• Lesson: Kingdom giving begins when God’s grace transforms our hearts, not when our pockets are full.

⸻

2. Surrender Before Sacrifice (vv. 3–5)

Paul notes that they first gave themselves to the Lord. This is the true mark of being set apart. When God owns our hearts, He can easily guide our hands.

• Lesson: Before offering your gift, offer yourself.

⸻

3. Abounding in the Grace of Giving (vv. 6–7)

Paul urges the Corinthians to grow in giving just as they grew in faith, knowledge, and love. Generosity is a spiritual discipline to be cultivated.

• Lesson: To be kingdom-minded is to see giving as part of spiritual maturity.

⸻

4. Christ—the Model of Kingdom Giving (vv. 8–9)

Jesus, though rich, became poor so we could be rich in grace. His sacrificial love is the standard for our giving.

• Lesson: Christlike giving is sacrificial, selfless, and love-driven.

⸻

5. Willingness Matters More Than Wealth (vv. 10–12)

God accepts what we give when it flows from a willing mind, not from comparison with others.

• Lesson: God values the heart behind the gift more than the size of the gift.

⸻

6. Equality in the Kingdom (vv. 13–15)

Paul emphasizes balance—our abundance should meet others’ needs so that no one lacks. This reflects God’s kingdom principle of care and fairness.

• Lesson: Kingdom giving promotes unity and equality in the body of Christ.

⸻

7. Integrity in Kingdom Finances (vv. 16–21)

Paul ensured transparency in handling gifts by involving Titus and other leaders. Giving is sacred and must be managed with honor.

• Lesson: Kingdom giving must be accompanied by accountability and integrity.

⸻

8. Giving as Proof of Love (vv. 22–24)

Paul calls generosity the proof of love. Our giving validates our words and glorifies Christ before others.

• Lesson: Kingdom giving is visible evidence that we belong to Christ.

⸻

Reflection Questions

1. Have I fully given myself to the Lord before offering my resources?

2. Do I see giving as a spiritual discipline I must grow in?

3. Do I understand that my giving fuels the mission of the church and impacts the needy?

⸻

Prayer

Lord, set me apart for Kingdom giving. Teach me to give first myself to You, and then my resources with joy and sincerity. Remind me that You bless me to be a blessing—to Your kingdom, to my neighbors, to the poor, and to the nations. May my giving reflect Christ’s sacrifice, supply the needs of others, and bring glory to Your name. Amen.

⸻

References

Primary Scripture Reference

• The Holy Bible, New King James Version (NKJV). 2 Corinthians 8:1–24.

Supporting Books

1. Alcorn, Randy. The Treasure Principle. Multnomah, 2001.

2. Alcorn, Randy. Money, Possessions, and Eternity. Tyndale, 2003.

3. Carson, D.A. Love in Hard Places. Crossway, 2002.

4. Hughes, R. Kent. Disciplines of a Godly Man. Crossway, 2001.

5. Keller, Timothy. Generous Justice: How God’s Grace Makes Us Just. Dutton, 2010.

6. Stanley, Andy. Fields of Gold: A Place Beyond Your Deepest Fears. Tyndale, 2004.

7. Stott, John. The Cross of Christ. InterVarsity Press, 1986.

8. Whitney, Donald S. Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life. NavPress, 1991.