If you read this whole chapter, you will discover that the apostle Paul is inspired by the Holy Spirit to write concerning some important principles of giving. For example, the principle of giving cheerfully is mentioned, as well as giving bountifully.

Do you give cheerfully? Are you sowing bountifully? Remember: our God gave His very BEST — Himself!

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

There we have it. God’s purpose for coming to this earth was to pay man’s sin debt. By being crucified on a cross — suffering, bleeding, and ultimately dying — sinful man could be reconciled to holy God.

However, just to know this intellectually is not enough to go to heaven. Instead, receiving this GIFT by GRACE alone through FAITH alone in CHRIST alone is what saves.

“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” (Eph. 2:8–9)

John wrote, “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” (John 1:12)

You see, the demons believe in JESUS but have never RECEIVED JESUS.

“Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.” (James 2:19) 

In other words, mere acknowledgment of God does not forgive sin. One must turn from sin and trust in the shed blood of Jesus Christ (Heb. 9:22).