The apostle stirs them up to make a collection for the poor Christians at Jerusalem, by the very liberal contributions of the people of Macedonia for the same purpose, who were comparatively a poor people, Co2 8:1-5. He tells them that he had desired Titus to finish this good work among them which he had begun; hoping that as they abounded in many excellent gifts and graces, they would abound in this also, Co2 8:6-8. He exhorts them to this by the example of Jesus Christ, who, though rich, subjected himself to voluntary poverty, that they might be enriched, Co2 8:9. He shows them that this contribution, which had been long ago begun, should have been long since finished, Co2 8:10. And that they should do every thing with a ready and willing mind, according to the ability which God had given them; that abundance should not prevail on one hand, while pinching poverty ruled on the other; but that there should be an equality, Co2 8:11-14. He shows from the distribution of the manna in the wilderness, that the design of God was, that every member of his spiritual household should have the necessaries of life, Co2 8:15. He tells them that he had now sent Titus, and another with him, to Corinth, to complete this great work, Co2 8:16-22. The character which he gives of Titus and the others employed in this business, Co2 8:23, Co2 8:24.