Book of 2 Corinthians - Chapter 8 - Verse 5

The verse "And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God." highlights the selfless and dedicated nature of those who have chosen to serve the Lord. It emphasizes the importance of giving oneself fully to God and following His will, even when it may not align with our own expectations. This verse reminds us that true devotion to the Lord involves surrendering our own desires and plans in order to fulfill His purpose for our lives. By putting God first and submitting to His will, we can experience His blessings and guidance in all that we do. This act of selflessness and obedience is not only pleasing to the Lord but also sets an example for others to follow, demonstrating the ultimate faith and trust in God's plan for our lives.

The theological interpretation of 2 Corinthians 8:5 emphasizes the concept of surrender and obedience to God's will. The verse illustrates the Corinthian believers' willingness to give themselves fully to the Lord before committing to any human leaders. This act of self-sacrifice reflects a deep level of faith and dedication to God. By prioritizing their spiritual relationship with God above all else, the Corinthians demonstrated their understanding of God's sovereignty and authority over their lives. The phrase "by the will of God" further emphasizes the importance of seeking and following God's guidance in all aspects of life, including relationships and service within the church. This verse serves as a reminder for believers to prioritize their relationship with God above all other commitments and to seek His will above their own desires.