Paul carefully organised a team of helpers to transfer the large collection to Jerusalem safely. Church finances can be at risk. Great care needs to be taken. Each church chose representatives to go with the money. Paul encourages richer churches to help poorer churches.

Paul sent Titus to the churches to start a collection on behalf of the Christians in Judea who were in financial difficulties. He wanted the Corinthians to be generous as other churches had been and to be prepared to give the offering having collected it over several weeks. Jesus is the motivation for Christian giving.

Titus had reported back good news to Paul. There was sorrow about the sexual sin that had taken place and this had led to repentance which in turn leads to reconciliation. the church responded well to Paul’s intervention.

Paul explains the reason for the delay in his visit. He uses an image of a Roman victory procession to show how Christians are part of God’s Kingdom. He compares his ministry and motivation to that of the false teachers who have gone to Corinth.

Paul clarified his travel plans and his desire to visit the church and overcome the relationship difficulty he was experiencing with the church. He emphasised that in contrast God always keeps his promises and is faithful which he had taught them through the scriptures.