New International VersionAs it is written: “They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor; their righteousness endures forever.”
New Living TranslationAs the Scriptures say, “They share freely and give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will be remembered forever.”
English Standard VersionAs it is written, “He has distributed freely, he has given to the poor; his righteousness endures forever.”
Berean Standard BibleAs it is written: “He has scattered abroad His gifts to the poor; His righteousness endures forever.”
Berean Literal BibleAs it has been written: "He has scattered abroad, He has given to the poor; His righteousness abides to the age."
King James Bible(As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever.
New King James VersionAs it is written: “He has dispersed abroad, He has given to the poor; His righteousness endures forever.”
New American Standard Bibleas it is written: “HE SCATTERED ABROAD, HE GAVE TO THE POOR, HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS ENDURES FOREVER.”
NASB 1995as it is written, “HE SCATTERED ABROAD, HE GAVE TO THE POOR, HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS ENDURES FOREVER.”
NASB 1977as it is written, “HE SCATTERED ABROAD, HE GAVE TO THE POOR, HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS ABIDES FOREVER.”
Legacy Standard Bibleas it is written, “HE SCATTERED ABROAD, HE GAVE TO THE NEEDY, HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS STANDS FOREVER.”
Amplified BibleAs it is written and forever remains written, “HE [the benevolent and generous person] SCATTERED ABROAD, HE GAVE TO THE POOR, HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS ENDURES FOREVER!”
Christian Standard BibleAs it is written: He distributed freely; he gave to the poor; his righteousness endures forever.
Holman Christian Standard BibleAs it is written: He scattered; He gave to the poor; His righteousness endures forever.
American Standard Versionas it is written, He hath scattered abroad, he hath given to the poor; His righteousness abideth for ever.
Contemporary English VersionThe Scriptures say, "God freely gives his gifts to the poor, and always does right."
English Revised Versionas it is written, He hath scattered abroad, he hath given to the poor; His righteousness abideth for ever.
GOD'S WORD® TranslationScripture says, "The righteous person gives freely to the poor. His righteousness continues forever."
Good News TranslationAs the scripture says, "He gives generously to the needy; his kindness lasts forever."
International Standard VersionAs it is written, "He scatters everywhere and gives to the poor; his righteousness lasts forever."
NET BibleJust as it is written, "He has scattered widely, he has given to the poor; his righteousness remains forever."
New Heart English BibleAs it is written, "He has scattered, he has given to the poor; his righteousness endures forever."
Webster's Bible Translation(As it is written, He hath dispersed; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever.
Weymouth New TestamentAs it is written, "He has scattered abroad, he has given to the poor, his almsgiving remains for ever." Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleAs it is written: “He has scattered abroad His gifts to the poor; His righteousness endures forever.”
World English BibleAs it is written, “He has scattered abroad. He has given to the poor. His righteousness remains forever.” Literal Translations Literal Standard Versionaccording as it has been written: “He dispersed abroad, He gave to the poor, His righteousness remains throughout the age,”
Berean Literal BibleAs it has been written: "He has scattered abroad, He has given to the poor; His righteousness abides to the age."
Young's Literal Translation (according as it hath been written, 'He dispersed abroad, he gave to the poor, his righteousness doth remain to the age,')
Smith's Literal Translation(As has been written, He scattered; he gave to the poor: his justice remains forever. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleAs it is written: He hath dispersed abroad, he hath given to the poor: his justice remaineth for ever.
Catholic Public Domain Versionjust as it was written: “He has distributed widely, he has given to the poor; his justice remains from age to age.”
New American BibleAs it is written: “He scatters abroad, he gives to the poor; his righteousness endures forever.”
New Revised Standard VersionAs it is written, “He scatters abroad, he gives to the poor; his righteousness endures forever.” Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleAs it is written, He has distributed liberally; and given to the poor; and his righteousness endures for ever.
Aramaic Bible in Plain EnglishAccording to what is written: “He has dispersed and he has given to the poor, and his righteousness stands for eternity.” NT Translations Anderson New Testamentas it is written: He has scattered abroad; he has given to the poor; his righteousness remains forever.
Godbey New TestamentHe has scattered abroad, he has given to the poor; his righteousness abides forever.
Haweis New Testamentas it is written, “He hath scattered abroad, he hath given to the poor, his righteousness abideth for ever.”
Mace New Testament
as it is written, " he hath distributed, he hath given to the poor: his liberality remaineth for ever."
Weymouth New Testament
As it is written, "He has scattered abroad, he has given to the poor, his almsgiving remains for ever."
Worrell New Testament
as it has been written, "He scattered abroad, he gave to the poor; his righteousness abides forever."
Worsley New Testament
(as it is written, "He hath dispersed, he hath given to the poor, his righteousness continueth for ever."
Additional Translations ... Audio Bible
Context God Loves a Cheerful Giver… 8And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things, at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 9Asit is written:“He has scattered abroadHis giftsto thepoor;Hisrighteousnessenduresforever.”10Now He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your store of seed and will increase the harvest of your righteousness.…
Cross References Psalm 112:9He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor; his righteousness endures forever; his horn will be lifted high in honor.
Proverbs 11:24-25One gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds what is right, only to become poor. / A generous soul will prosper, and he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.
Luke 6:38Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.”
Matthew 6:3-4But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, / so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
Acts 20:35In everything, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus Himself: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’”
Galatians 6:9-10Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. / Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to the family of faith.
Philippians 4:17-19Not that I am seeking a gift, but I am looking for the fruit that may be credited to your account. / I have all I need and more, now that I have received your gifts from Epaphroditus. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God. / And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
1 Timothy 6:18-19Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, and to be generous and ready to share, / treasuring up for themselves a firm foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.
Hebrews 13:16And do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.
James 2:15-16Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. / If one of you tells him, “Go in peace; stay warm and well fed,” but does not provide for his physical needs, what good is that?
1 John 3:17-18If anyone with earthly possessions sees his brother in need, but withholds his compassion from him, how can the love of God abide in him? / Little children, let us love not in word and speech, but in action and truth.
Isaiah 32:8But a noble man makes honorable plans; he stands up for worthy causes.
Proverbs 19:17Kindness to the poor is a loan to the LORD, and He will repay the lender.
Deuteronomy 15:10-11Give generously to him, and do not let your heart be grieved when you do so. And because of this the LORD your God will bless you in all your work and in everything to which you put your hand. / For there will never cease to be poor in the land; that is why I am commanding you to open wide your hand to your brother and to the poor and needy in your land.
Psalm 37:21The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous are gracious and giving.
Treasury of Scripture (As it is written, He has dispersed abroad; he has given to the poor: his righteousness remains for ever. He hath dispersed. Psalm 112:9 He hath dispersed, he hath given to the poor; his righteousness endureth for ever; his horn shall be exalted with honour. his. Psalm 112:3 Wealth and richesshall be in his house: and his righteousness endureth for ever. Proverbs 8:18 Riches and honourare with me;yea, durable riches and righteousness. Proverbs 21:21 He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honour. Jump to Previous AbidethAbroadAgeAlmsgivingDispersedEnduresFarForeverGiftsGivesPoorRighteousnessScatteredScattersWideWritingsWrittenJump to Next AbidethAbroadAgeAlmsgivingDispersedEnduresFarForeverGiftsGivesPoorRighteousnessScatteredScattersWideWritingsWritten2 Corinthians 9 1.He yields the reason why he sent Titus and his brothers beforehand.6.And he proceeds in stirring them up to a bountiful alms, as being but a kind of sowing of seed,10.which shall return a great increase to them,13.and occasion a great sacrifice of thanksgivings unto God.As it is written:This phrase indicates that Paul is referencing Scripture, specifically drawing from the Old Testament. It underscores the authority and continuity of God's Word. The phrase suggests that the following statement is a fulfillment or reflection of biblical truth, often used by New Testament writers to connect their teachings with the Hebrew Scriptures. “He has scattered abroad His gifts to the poor;
This part of the verse is a quotation fromPsalm 112:9, which describes the righteous man who is generous and compassionate. The imagery of scattering suggests a liberal and abundant distribution, reflecting God's own generosity. In the cultural context of the ancient Near East, almsgiving was a significant act of piety and social responsibility. The act of giving to the poor is seen as a reflection of God's character, who provides for all His creation. This scattering of gifts can also be seen as a type of Christ, who gave Himself for humanity. His righteousness endures forever.”
The enduring nature of righteousness here implies that acts of generosity have eternal significance. In biblical theology, righteousness is not just a moral quality but a relational one, involving right relationships with God and others. This phrase connects to the broader biblical theme that true righteousness is demonstrated through justice and mercy. The eternal aspect of righteousness points to the everlasting nature of God's covenant faithfulness, as well as the eternal rewards for those who live righteously. This enduring righteousness is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, whose life and sacrifice provide the ultimate example of enduring righteousness. Persons / Places / Events 1. Paul the ApostleThe author of 2 Corinthians, writing to the church in Corinth to encourage generosity and stewardship. 2. The Church in CorinthThe recipients of the letter, a diverse and dynamic early Christian community in the city of Corinth. 3. The PoorThe recipients of the gifts mentioned in the verse, representing those in need within the Christian community and beyond. 4. The PsalmistThe original author of the quote, which is from Psalm 112:9, emphasizing the enduring nature of righteousness and generosity. 5. GodThe ultimate source of righteousness and the one who empowers believers to give generously. Teaching Points The Principle of GenerosityBelievers are called to be generous, scattering their resources to help those in need. This reflects God's own generosity and love. Enduring RighteousnessActs of generosity are not just temporary; they have eternal significance. Our righteousness, demonstrated through giving, endures forever. Imitating God’s CharacterAs God is generous and righteous, believers are encouraged to imitate these attributes in their own lives, reflecting His character to the world. Trust in God’s ProvisionGenerosity requires faith that God will provide for our needs as we give to others. Trusting in His provision allows us to give freely. Impact on the CommunityGenerosity strengthens the community of believers and serves as a testimony to the world of God’s love and provision. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1.What is the meaning of 2 Corinthians 9:9?
2.How does 2 Corinthians 9:9 encourage us to practice generosity in daily life?
3.What does "He has scattered abroad" teach about God's provision and abundance?
4.How can we emulate the "righteousness endures forever" aspect in our community?
5.Which other scriptures reinforce the principle of generosity found in 2 Corinthians 9:9?
6.How can we ensure our giving aligns with the righteousness described in this verse?
7.How does 2 Corinthians 9:9 reflect the concept of generosity in Christian theology?
8.What historical context influenced Paul's message in 2 Corinthians 9:9?
9.How does 2 Corinthians 9:9 relate to the theme of righteousness in the Bible?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from 2 Corinthians 9?
11.What archaeological or historical evidence supports the claim in 2 Corinthians 9:9 that God supplies resources to the righteous indefinitely?
12.Does 1 Corinthians 7:9 oversimplify human relationships by advocating marriage primarily to avoid sexual immorality?
13.Psalm 92:9 declares all God's enemies shall perish--does this conflict with other passages that suggest the wicked may receive grace or forgiveness?
14.How does giving reflect your heart's generosity?What Does 2 Corinthians 9:9 Mean As it is written• Paul anchors his teaching to Scripture, quotingPsalm 112:9 word-for-word. By opening with “As it is written,” he reminds readers that generous giving isn’t a new idea but God’s timeless plan. • This echo of the Psalms affirms the unity of both Testaments (2 Timothy 3:16). When God speaks once, His Word stands forever (Isaiah 55:11), so believers can trust that the principle of sowing generously still holds true today. • Jesus modeled the same reliance on written Scripture when He said, “It is written” (Matthew 4:4), underscoring that what God has recorded remains the final authority for faith and practice.
He has scattered abroad His gifts to the poor• The righteous person “scatters” freely, not sparingly. Just as seed flung widely brings a larger harvest (Proverbs 11:24-25), open-handed giving multiplies blessing. – Paul’s whole context in2 Corinthians 9 is agricultural: “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly” (v. 6). • “His gifts” points to both material resources and acts of kindness. Everything the believer owns belongs to God first (Psalm 24:1), so distributing it reflects divine ownership. • The intended recipients are “the poor,” echoing God’s heart inDeuteronomy 15:7-11 that none of His people be left in need. • Jesus confirmed this pattern: “Give, and it will be given to you” (Luke 6:38). Paul later quotes Jesus, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35), showing generosity as a hallmark of authentic faith (James 2:15-17).
His righteousness endures forever• Generosity isn’t a temporary flash of goodwill; it is fruit that lasts. Every act of sincere giving becomes an eternal investment (Matthew 6:19-20). • “Righteousness” here speaks of practical justice—right actions rooted in faith.Psalm 111:3 describes God’s righteousness as everlasting; when believers emulate Him, their deeds share that permanence. • God remembers and rewards such righteousness, not as merit for salvation but as evidence of it (Philippians 1:11). •Revelation 19:8 pictures the church clothed in righteous acts that endure into eternity, proving that gifts given in Christ’s name outlive the present age.
summary2 Corinthians 9:9 links the believer’s generosity to God’s own character and to His unchanging Word. Scripture proves that scattering gifts to the needy is both commanded and rewarded. When we give freely, we mirror our Father’s enduring righteousness, sow eternal seed, and display the gospel in tangible form—confident that every act born of faith will echo forever. (9) As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad.--The words are quoted from the LXX. version of Psalm 112:9. At first it might almost seem as if they were quoted in a different sense from the original, and applied, not to the giver of alms, but to God as the giver of all good, dispersing His bounty and showing His righteousness. There are, however, sufficient grounds for taking them in their true meaning here also. "The good man gives to the poor," the Psalmist had said; "but he is not impoverished by his gifts. His righteousness" (the word is used as it perhaps is in the better text in Matthew 6:1--but see Note there--in the sense of alms-giving) "continues still and for ever." He can, i.e., go on giving from a constantly replenished store. That this is the meaning is shown by 2Corinthians 9:3 of the Psalm: "Wealth and riches shall be in his house, and his righteousness endureth for ever:" the latter clause corresponding to the former, according to the laws of parallelism in Hebrew poetry. Verse 9. - As it is written. The quotation is from the LXX. in Psalm 112:9. He hath dispersed abroad. He has been a large and generous giver. The poor. The word here used is penes, which does not occur elsewhere in the New Testament. It means moderato and honourable poverty, whereas in classical Greek ptocheia implies disreputable pauperism and mendicancy (comp. 2 Corinthians 8:9). His righteousness. Meaning here his good deeds. The word is often rendered "pity" by the LXX. ( eleemosune, from which word comes our "alms"), and this word occurs as a synonymous reading in Matthew 6:1. Remaineth forever. Because - "Good deeds never die.
They with the sun and moon renew their light,
Forever blessing him that looks on them."
Parallel Commentaries ...
Greek Asκαθὼς(kathōs)Adverb
Strong's 2531:According to the manner in which, in the degree that, just as, as. From kata and hos; just as, that.it is written:γέγραπται(gegraptai)Verb - Perfect Indicative Middle or Passive - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 1125:A primary verb; to 'grave', especially to write; figuratively, to describe.“He has scattered abroadἘσκόρπισεν(Eskorpisen)Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 4650:Apparently from the same as skorpios; to dissipate, i.e. put to flight, waste, be liberal.His giftsἔδωκεν(edōken)Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 1325:To offer, give; I put, place. A prolonged form of a primary verb; to give.to theτοῖς(tois)Article - Dative Masculine Plural
Strong's 3588:The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.poor;πένησιν(penēsin)Noun - Dative Masculine Plural
Strong's 3993:One who works for his living; a laborer, poor man. From a primary peno; starving, i.e. Indigent.Hisαὐτοῦ(autou)Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive Masculine 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 846:He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.righteousnessδικαιοσύνη(dikaiosynē)Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular
Strong's 1343:From dikaios; equity; specially justification.enduresμένει(menei)Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular
Strong's 3306:To remain, abide, stay, wait; with acc: I wait for, await. A primary verb; to stay.forever.”εἰς(eis)Preposition
Strong's 1519:A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.
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NT Letters: 2 Corinthians 9:9 As it is written He has scattered (2 Cor. 2C iiC 2Cor ii cor iicor) |
