But in this matter I give you an opinion; for my doing this helps forward your own intentions, seeing that not only have you begun operations, but a year ago you already had the desire to do so.

Let each contribute what he has decided upon in his own mind, and not do it reluctantly or under compulsion. "It is a cheerful giver that God loves."

Thus much in the way of concession, not of command.

By occasion

But we desire to let you know, brethren, of the grace of God which has been bestowed on the Churches of Macedonia;

For I know your earnest willingness, on account of which I habitually boast of you to the Macedonians, pointing out to them that for a whole year you in Greece have been ready; and the greater number of them have been spurred on by your ardour.

and if their lapse is the enriching of the world, and their overthrow the enriching of the Gentiles, will not still greater good follow their restoration?

And let us bestow thought on one another with a view to arousing one another to brotherly love and right conduct;

Prove

Exhibit therefore to the Churches a proof of your love, and a justification of our boasting to these brethren about you.

by purity of life, by knowledge, by patience, by kindness, by the Holy Spirit, by sincere love;

Let your love be perfectly sincere. Regard with horror what is evil; cling to what is right.

But we shall lovingly hold to the truth, and shall in all respects grow up into union with Him who is our Head, even Christ.

What good is it, my brethren, if a man professes to have faith, and yet his actions do not correspond? Can such faith save him?

Now that, through your obedience to the truth, you have purified your souls for cherishing sincere brotherly love, you must love another heartily and fervently.

But if any one has this world's wealth and sees that his brother man is in need, and yet hardens his heart against him--how can such a one continue to love God?

General references

"If you love me, you will obey my commandments.

Exhibit therefore to the Churches a proof of your love, and a justification of our boasting to these brethren about you.

Dear friends, if God has so loved us, we also ought to love one another.