Paul had been encouraging the Corinthians to give generously.

• All of chaps 8 & 9 talk about it.

• He even called it a “ministry.” (2 Cor 9:12)

• Paul wanted to motivate them to excel in the gift of GIVING.

• How would he do it?

• Vs 1-6 - He compared them to others.

• Research shows people are more motivated by positive factors than negative.

• Studies show these four positive motivators work best:

• 1) Progress Monitoring - they want to know where they stand (2 Cor 8:7 - they checked all the other boxes but the giving box)

• 2) Relinquished Control - people don’t want to be micromanaged (2 Cor 8:8 - “I am not commanding you…”)

• 3) Social Incentives - “If others did it I can too.” (2 Cor 9:2 - “…and your enthusiasm has stirred most of them to action.”

• 4) Immediate Rewards - they want to be recognized & paid (2 Cor 9:6 - “…whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”