2 Corinthians 8:21 – “For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of man.”

Extended Explanation

In this verse, Paul explains his commitment to integrity in handling the financial offering for the believers in Jerusalem. He wants to make sure that everything is done honestly and above reproach—not just before God, but also in the eyes of people.

Paul understands that it’s not enough to have good intentions; he must also take practical steps to show that the offering is being handled properly. Even if he and his team are being completely honest, if they don’t take visible precautions, others might still doubt their integrity.

This principle applies beyond money—it’s a reminder that believers must not only do what is right but must also avoid even the appearance of wrongdoing.

Paul’s words show that he is concerned with more than just personal righteousness—he cares about the public witness of the gospel. He understands that if people suspect financial dishonesty, it could damage the credibility of his ministry and the reputation of the church.

Historical Context

At this time, Paul was organizing a financial collection from Gentile churches to help the poor believers in Jerusalem, who were struggling due to famine and persecution (Acts 11:27-30).

Since a large sum of money was being collected, Paul wanted to make sure that:

1. Everything was handled transparently to avoid any accusations of corruption.
2. Multiple trustworthy leaders were involved in managing and delivering the funds (2 Corinthians 8:16-20).
3. Both God and people could see that everything was done with integrity.

Paul had already faced false accusations in his ministry (2 Corinthians 6:3-10, 12:16-18), so he knew how important it was to remove any opportunity for people to question his motives.

Theological Implications

This verse teaches several key biblical principles:

• Integrity must be visible, not just private. It’s not enough to say, “God knows my heart.” Believers should also ensure that others see their honesty and faithfulness.
• Christians must live above reproach. Paul went to great lengths to ensure that his actions could not be misinterpreted.
• Our witness matters. How we handle money, leadership, and responsibilities reflects on the credibility of the gospel.
• God values transparency and accountability. Paul didn’t just act alone—he made sure others were involved in the financial process to maintain accountability.

This verse challenges believers to think carefully about how their actions appear to others, not just what they believe is right in their own hearts.

Literary Analysis

Paul’s wording in this verse is strong and intentional:

• “We are taking pains to do what is right” – This shows deliberate effort. Paul is not just hoping for honesty; he is actively ensuring that everything is above reproach.
• “Not only in the eyes of the Lord” – Paul acknowledges that God sees everything and knows his motives.
• “But also in the eyes of man” – Paul understands that humans are not all-knowing, so he must take visible steps to prove his integrity.

Paul is not seeking human approval, but he is making sure that nothing he does will cause others to question his honesty or the gospel message.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Proverbs 3:3-4 – “Let love and faithfulness never leave you… Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.” (Honesty before both God and people is important.)
• Romans 12:17 – “Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.” (Paul teaches the same principle elsewhere.)
• 1 Thessalonians 5:22 – “Reject every kind of evil.” (Avoid even the appearance of wrongdoing.)
• Titus 2:7-8 – “In everything set them an example by doing what is good… so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.” (Integrity silences critics.)
• Luke 16:10 – “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much.” (Faithfulness in small things matters to God.)

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse is a powerful reminder that our actions should match our faith. It’s not enough to say, “I’m doing the right thing before God”—we must also take steps to make sure others can see our integrity.

For today’s Christians, this applies to many areas of life:

• Financial honesty. Whether handling church funds or personal money, we should act with transparency and accountability.
• Personal reputation. People are watching how we live. Our actions reflect Christ to the world.
• Workplace ethics. Christians should be known as hardworking and trustworthy employees.
• Avoiding temptation. Even if we think we won’t sin, we should still avoid situations that could cause others to doubt our character.

This verse challenges us to think beyond ourselves and ask: How do my actions reflect on Christ and His church?

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse reflects God’s love in several ways:

1. God is a God of truth. He calls His people to reflect His honesty and faithfulness in how they live.
2. God cares about our witness. He doesn’t just want us to be righteous in private—He wants our lives to reflect His goodness publicly.
3. God protects His people through integrity. By living above reproach, believers avoid unnecessary accusations and harm.

God’s love is displayed when His people live in a way that honors both Him and others.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus is the perfect example of living with integrity before both God and man:

• Luke 2:52 – “And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” (Jesus was respected because of His righteous character.)
• Matthew 22:16 – Jesus’ enemies said, “Teacher, we know that you are a man of integrity and that you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth.” (Even His critics recognized His honesty.)
• John 18:19-23 – When Jesus was falsely accused, He responded with truth and dignity, showing that He had nothing to hide.
• 1 Peter 2:22-23 – “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.” (Jesus was perfectly honest and righteous.)

Just as Jesus lived in a way that was beyond reproach, believers are called to live with visible integrity, reflecting His truth and righteousness.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Do you take extra steps to ensure that your actions reflect honesty and integrity?
2. Are you concerned only with what God sees, or do you also consider how your actions appear to others?
3. Have you ever seen financial dishonesty damage a ministry’s reputation? How can churches prevent this?
4. In what areas of your life do you need to be more accountable and transparent?
5. How does Jesus’ example of integrity challenge the way you live and interact with others?

This verse is a powerful challenge to live in a way that is above reproach, both before God and people. By doing so, we protect our witness, honor Christ, and reflect His truth to the world.