Now we make known unto you, brethren, the grace of God that hath been given in the churches of Macedonia.

2 That in much experience of tribulation, they have had abundance of joy and their very deep poverty hath abounded unto the riches of their simplicity.

3 For according to their power (I bear them witness) and beyond their power, they were willing:

4 With much entreaty begging of us the grace and communication of the ministry that is done toward the saints.

5 And not as we hoped: but they gave their own selves, first to the Lord, then to us by the will of God;

6 Insomuch, that we desired Titus, that, as he had begun, so also he would finish among you this same grace.

7 That as in all things you abound in faith and word and knowledge and all carefulness, moreover also in your charity towards us: so in this grace also you may abound.

8 I speak not as commanding: but by the carefulness of others, approving also the good disposition of your charity.

9 For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that being rich he became poor for your sakes: that through his poverty you might be rich.