OLBGrk;

The word here translated bountifulness, signifies simplicity, in opposition to deceit and fraud. We had it before, 2 Corinthians 8:2; so Romans 12:8: so, James 1:5, God is said to give aplwv, simply (we translate it liberally). We have in these two Chapter s met with three words, by which the bounty of Christians to persons in distress is expressed; grace, blessing, simplicity, cariv, eulogia, aplothv. The first lets us know the true root of all accceptable giving to those who are in distress, that must be free love: the second expresseth the true end, blessing God and our neighbour; serving the glory and commands of God, and the necessities of our brethren: this third expresseth the manner how we must give, that is, with simplicity. It is no true liberality where simplicity is wanting, that a man doth not what he doth with a plain heart and design to obey God and do good to his brother. Which causeth through us thanksgiving to God; as a further argument to press them to this liberality, he tells them, that it would cause them that were the apostles and ministers of Christ, to offer thanksgiving unto God.

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