Generosity of the Macedonians

2 Corinthians 8:1-5 Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia; How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality. For to [their] power, I bear record, yea, and beyond [their] power [they were] willing of themselves; Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and [take upon us] the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. 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.

Paul had good things to say about the church of the Macedonia. Among those were that they were very generous. But what characteristics did that church have that we the present church should learn from or get established in if we are already doing the same.

Firstly, they had a good response to relief, Acts 11:29. A famine had happened in Jerusalem and they were mobilised to send relief there. If you have been slow at helping a friend or ministry in need especially in their times of trial and distress yet you are able to you have an example set here for you. 

Second, They were purposeful in their giving, 2 Cor 9:7. 

Third; They carefully examined their motives for giving. The motive of the heart is what God looks at in our giving (or anything else that we do – 1 Samuel 16:7). A good comparison would be that of the “poor widow” in Mark 12:42-44 versus Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5:1-11. The widow’s motive for giving was pure and honorable, while Ananias and Sapphira’s motive for giving was out of covetousness. 

Fourth; They were joyful givers (2 Corinthians 8:2).

Fifth; They were liberal givers (2 Corinthians 8:2).

Sixth; They were willing givers (2 Corinthians 8:3).

Seventh; They were prayerful givers (2 Corinthians 8:4).

Eighth; They were selfless givers (2 Corinthians 8:5).

Ninth; They were consecrated givers (2 Corinthians 8:5).

Further scriptures 

Acts 11:27-29 And in these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch. And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the spirit that there should be great dearth throughout all the world: which came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar. Then the disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to send relief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judaea:

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