2 Corinthians 8:20

An Understandable Version (2005 edition)

[We made this arrangement] to avoid anyone blaming us for the way we handled this generous gift.

Cross References

Matthew 10:16

“Here is how it will be: I am sending you out like sheep among wolves; therefore you should be as crafty [Note: The Greek word here is “sensible”] as snakes, yet as harmless [Note: The Greek word is “sincere”] as doves.

Romans 14:16

Do not allow what you consider good to be spoken against [i.e., the exercise of a liberty by the strong to eat anything must not become the occasion of criticism by the weak].

1 Corinthians 16:3

Then when I arrive, I will send letters with the men you appoint to take the gift to Jerusalem.

2 Corinthians 11:12

But what I am doing, I will continue to do, so that I can cut off the opportunity from those who want an occasion [to receive financial support for themselves because of my example of receiving it]. They want to boast [that they are preaching] on the same terms as I do. [Note: Paul’s argument seems to be that one reason for his foregoing financial support was so those “super apostles” in Corinth (see verse 5) would not be able to use his example to wrongfully exact financial support from the church].

2 Corinthians 8:19

And not only this, but he was also appointed by the churches to travel with us in [taking] this gift [to Jerusalem] as we minister in order to honor the Lord Himself, and to demonstrate our eagerness [to help poor people].

2 Corinthians 8:21

For we take measures to do what is honorable, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of people.

Ephesians 5:15

So, be careful how you live. Do not live ignorantly, but wisely,

1 Thessalonians 5:22

Avoid [the practice of] every kind of evil.