2 Corinthians 8:3-5

For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves;

They (were) willing - rather supply from , 'According to their power ... yea, and beyond their power, THEY GAVE.

Of themselves - not only not being besought, but voluntarily beseeching us.

Verse 4. That we would receive - omitted in 'Aleph (') B C Delta G f g, Vulgate. 'Beseeching of us ... the grace and fellowship of (i:e., to grant them the favour of sharing in) the ministering unto the saints.' The Macedonian contributions must have been from Philippi, because it was the only church that contributed to Paul's support (; Philippians 4:15).

Verse 5. And (this they did,) not as we hoped. Translate, 'And not as we hoped (i:e., far beyond our hopes), but their own selves gave they first to the Lord and to us;' "first" not indicating priority of time, but first of all in importance. The giving of themselves takes precedency of their other gifts, being the motive which led them to these ().

By the will of God - not 'according to,' but 'moved by the will of God, who made them willing' (). It is therefore called () "the grace of God."