10. Now I am giving an opinion on this because it is profitable for you, who a year ago began not only to do something but also to desire it.
11. But now finish the task as well, that just as there was eagerness to desire it, so there may also be a completion from what you have.
12. For if the eagerness is there, it is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he does not have.
13. It is not that there may be relief for others and hardship for you, but it is a question of equality —
14. at the present time your surplus is available for their need, so their abundance may also become available for our need, so there may be equality.
15. As it has been written:The person who gathered muchdid not have too much,and the person who gathered littledid not have too little.
16. Thanks be to God who put the same concern for you into the heart of Titus.
17. For he accepted our urging and, being very diligent, went out to you by his own choice.
18. We have sent with him the brother who is praised throughout the churches for his gospel ministry.
19. And not only that, but he was also appointed by the churches to accompany us with this gift that is being administered by us for the glory of the Lord Himself and to show our eagerness to help.
20. We are taking this precaution so no one can criticize us about this large sum administered by us.
21. For we are making provision for what is right, not only before the Lord but also before men.
22. We have also sent with them our brother. We have often tested him in many circumstances and found him to be diligent — and now even more diligent because of his great confidence in you.
23. As for Titus, he is my partner and coworker serving you; as for our brothers, they are the messengers of the churches, the glory of Christ.
24. Therefore, show them proof before the churches of your love and of our boasting about you.